Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I opened the fridge, a brilliant idea sparked—what if asparagus could be the showstopper at dinner tonight? Enter Cheesy Baked Asparagus, a delightful side dish that turns simple vegetables into a creamy, cheesy triumph in just 20 minutes! With a rich garlic cheese sauce and a crunchy topping, this low-carb, keto-friendly dish will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds. Not only is it quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze, but it’s also a fabulous way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing. Perfect alongside chicken, beef, or pork chops, this dish transforms your meal into something special. Curious how to whip up this savory delight? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Cheesy Baked Asparagus a Must-Try? Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy cheese sauce paired with crunchy breadcrumbs makes healthy asparagus irresistible, even to picky eaters. Low-Carb Delight: As a keto-friendly option, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into low-carb diets. Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, beef, or pork chops for a deliciously balanced meal. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, this Cheesy Baked Asparagus will have everyone reaching for seconds! Explore more delicious ideas by trying out our Cheesy Broccoli Casserole or Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas. Cheesy Baked Asparagus Ingredients For the Asparagus • Asparagus – 1 pound (500 g); fresh, tender spears are the star of this dish—trim the woody ends for the best texture. • Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons; adds richness and aids in roasting—opt for high-quality extra virgin for enhanced flavor. For the Seasoning • Garlic – 1 tablespoon, finely minced (about 4 cloves); provides a fragrant, savory base—can be substituted with garlic powder (1 teaspoon) if you’re in a pinch. • Salt – 3/4 teaspoon; enhances flavor, preferably kosher for better texture. • Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, freshly cracked; adds a mild spicy note. For the Topping • Mozzarella Cheese – 1 1/4 cups, finely shredded; creates a gooey, cheesy topping—feel free to swap in cheddar or provolone based on your preference. Optional Additions • Panko Breadcrumbs – For an extra crunchy topping, mix with parmesan before broiling for added texture. • Red Pepper Flakes – For those who crave a kick, add a pinch to the olive oil mixture for a spicy twist. With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, your Cheesy Baked Asparagus will shine on the dinner table, making it a family-friendly, low-carb option everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Baked Asparagus Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and coat it lightly with non-stick spray to ensure your Cheesy Baked Asparagus doesn’t stick during baking. This preparation is crucial for achieving that perfect golden, bubbly cheese topping later on. Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus Take 1 pound of fresh asparagus and trim off the woody ends for the best taste and texture. Arrange the tender spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t crowded. This spacing allows the asparagus to roast evenly, turning vibrant green during the baking process. Step 3: Mix the Seasonings In a medium-sized bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of finely minced garlic, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Drizzle this mixture over the arranged asparagus to infuse it with flavor and then toss gently to coat every spear evenly with the seasoning. Step 4: Roast the Asparagus Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the asparagus for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn bright green and are just tender to the fork, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese that awaits. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. Step 5: Add the Cheese Once the asparagus is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven. Generously sprinkle 1 1/4 cups of finely shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the asparagus. This will create that indulgent cheesy blanket. Next, switch your oven setting to broil, preparing for that delightful browning stage. Step 6: Broil to Perfection Return the baking sheet to the oven under the broiler and let the cheese bubble and turn a beautiful golden brown. This should take about 4-5 minutes, so stay close by to watch, preventing any burning. The bubbling cheese will contrast perfectly with the tender asparagus below, creating a mouthwatering Cheesy Baked Asparagus dish. Step 7: Final Seasoning After broiling, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Give your dish a final taste check and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Serve your Cheesy Baked Asparagus immediately while it’s fresh, hot, and incredibly cheesy—grab a fork and enjoy the deliciousness! Cheesy Baked Asparagus Variations Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists that elevate your Cheesy Baked Asparagus to new heights! Cheese Substitution: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique taste that can transform this dish. Add Crunch: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan for an irresistible crunchy layer. This will provide delightful texture and an appetizing golden crust. Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the asparagus before roasting for a fresh pop of flavor. It adds a fragrant aroma that beautifully complements the cheesy goodness. Kick it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture for a spicy twist that will excite your taste buds. The heat elevates the dish and makes it even more engaging. Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest before serving for a bright, citrusy zing that cuts through the richness. It refreshes the palate beautifully, perfect for springtime meals. Creamy Variation: Drizzle with a bit of cream before adding cheese for an ultra-rich, creamy texture. This variation will satisfy those cravings for a decadent side dish. Vegan Option: Substitute mozzarella with your favorite dairy-free cheese and replace olive oil with vegan butter to keep it plant-based. This way, everyone can enjoy the cheesy magic! Mix in Veggies: Add in other roasted veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious twist. This variation not only enhances flavor but also transforms your dish into a vibrant medley. Your Cheesy Baked Asparagus can shine in many ways, making it a versatile side that is sure to please everyone at the table. While you’re enhancing your meal, be sure to check out our delicious Cheesy Broccoli Casserole or indulge in our Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for more cheesy excitement! Expert Tips for Cheesy Baked Asparagus Trim Wisely: Make sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus; leaving them on will result in an unpleasant texture. Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye on the asparagus while it’s under the broiler, as cheese can go from bubbly to burnt very quickly. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper; they enhance the flavor of the Cheesy Baked Asparagus and make all the difference! Try Different Cheeses: Feel free to swap out mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique flavor twist while maintaining the dish’s cheesy goodness. Extra Crunch: For an added texture, mix panko breadcrumbs with parmesan before sprinkling on top just before broiling; this creates a delightful crunch. Make Ahead Options Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the asparagus by trimming the spears and tossing them with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the seasoned asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful side, arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet, roast it in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, then add the mozzarella cheese and broil for 4-5 minutes until bubbly and golden. This way, you’ll ensure your Cheesy Baked Asparagus is just as delicious while saving precious cooking time on your busy evenings! What to Serve with Cheesy Baked Asparagus When you’re ready to turn your dinner into a delightful feast, consider these mouthwatering pairings to enhance your meal. Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken complements the richness of cheesy asparagus, creating a balanced and flavorful plate. Steak: A perfectly cooked steak adds a hearty touch, bringing a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy asparagus. Pork Chops: The savory taste of grilled or baked pork chops harmonizes with the cheesy notes, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber provides a light contrast, adding vibrant colors and textures. Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchiness and garlic infusion of crispy bread will have your guests mopping up every bite of cheesy goodness! White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay elevates the dining experience, beautifully cutting through the richness of the dish. Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing end, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a bright note after the cheesy richness. Roasted Baby Potatoes: These golden, crispy bites bring a comforting element to the meal, making it feel heartwarming and complete. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and a creamy dressing, which complements the flavors of cheesy asparagus perfectly. Elevate your dinner time by mixing and matching these pairings for a delightful culinary adventure! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Baked Asparagus Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Baked Asparagus in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain its cheesy texture and flavor. Freezer: Freeze the cooled, unbaked asparagus dish in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking to enjoy fresh out of the oven. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Serving Fresh: Although reheating works, this dish is best served straight out of the oven for that gooey, bubbly goodness! Cheesy Baked Asparagus Recipe FAQs How do I know if my asparagus is fresh enough? Absolutely! When selecting asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. Avoid any that show signs of wilting or have dark spots all over, as this indicates that the asparagus is past its prime. What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Baked Asparagus? After enjoying your delicious Cheesy Baked Asparagus, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Can I freeze Cheesy Baked Asparagus? Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the unbaked asparagus to cool completely. Then, place it in a sealed container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking according to the recipe. What if the cheese doesn’t melt or brown while broiling? If your cheese isn’t melting or browning, it might be due to the broiler’s position. Make sure the oven rack is close to the broiler, about 6 inches away. Also, consider using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged, as it melts better. A pinch of salt can also help enhance the melting process. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? When it comes to feeding your furry friends or considering allergies, it’s essential to remember that garlic (even in small amounts) can be toxic to dogs and cats. So, keep this dish to humans only! For those with dairy allergies, explore non-dairy cheese alternatives for a similar creamy texture. Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella? Very! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile. Each cheese contributes its unique taste, so choose one that your family enjoys the most! Cheesy Baked Asparagus: A Quick, Irresistible Side Dish Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a creamy, cheesy triumph that makes a delightful side dish in just 20 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Asparagus1 pound Asparagus fresh, tender spears, trim the woody ends3 tablespoons Olive Oil high-quality extra virgin recommendedFor the Seasoning1 tablespoon Garlic finely minced (about 4 cloves)3/4 teaspoon Salt preferably kosher1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly crackedFor the Topping1 1/4 cups Mozzarella Cheese finely shredded, can substitute with cheddar or provoloneOptional AdditionsPanko Breadcrumbs for extra crunchRed Pepper Flakes for a spicy kick Equipment baking sheetMedium-sized bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Baked AsparagusPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and coat a baking sheet with non-stick spray.Trim the woody ends from the asparagus and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle over the asparagus and toss to coat.Roast in the oven for 10-15 minutes until bright green and tender.Remove from oven, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over asparagus, and switch oven to broil.Broil for 4-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired, then serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesServe fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
