Easy Cheesy Baked Asparagus

Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a delightful side dish that combines tender asparagus spears with a rich, creamy cheese topping. This recipe is simple to prepare and makes for a flavorful accompaniment to any main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of common kitchen staples.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, olive oil, and melted cheese enhances the natural taste of asparagus.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (500 g) asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1¼ cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Asparagus: Place the trimmed asparagus spears on a baking sheet.
3. Season: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the asparagus, tossing to ensure even coating.
4. Initial Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the asparagus for 10-15 minutes, until they are vibrant and just beginning to become tender.
5. Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the asparagus.
6. Final Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven and broil (or grill) for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the olive oil mixture for added aroma and taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the asparagus on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the asparagus soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen asparagus may become too soft during baking.

2. How do I know when the asparagus is done?

The asparagus should be tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight crispness. The cheese should be melted and golden brown.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can trim and season the asparagus ahead of time. Add the cheese and bake just before serving.

4. What main dishes pair well with Cheesy Baked Asparagus?

This side dish complements roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish dishes.

5. Is there a way to make this dish lower in fat?

You can reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese alternative. Additionally, using less olive oil can help decrease the fat content.

6. Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?

Yes, sprinkling seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking can add a delightful crunch to the dish.

7. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Ensure the minced garlic is mixed well with the olive oil and coated onto the asparagus to prevent it from being exposed directly to the oven heat.

8. Can I use a different type of oil?

Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter if preferred.

9. How should I trim the asparagus?

Gently bend each asparagus spear until it naturally snaps to remove the woody ends, or trim about 1-2 inches from the bottom.

10. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers can enhance the flavor and add color to the dish.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings together the freshness of asparagus with the richness of melted cheese. It’s quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

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