The Dreamiest Cheesy Baked Asparagus Recipe Ever

Tender green stalks dance with a golden, melted cheddar cheese baked asparagus recipe that promises pure comfort on a plate.

Crisp asparagus spears emerge from the oven with a delightful crunch and irresistible cheesy coating.

Each bite brings a burst of fresh vegetable flavor mingled with rich, creamy cheese.

The simple preparation belies the sophisticated taste that will impress dinner guests and family alike.

Sea salt and black pepper add subtle depth to this classic side dish.

Roasted to perfection, these asparagus spears offer a delectable way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable.

You’ll want to savor every last morsel of this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Cheesy Baked Asparagus: Why It Steals the Show

• Whip up this delectable side dish with minimal effort, using just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools.
• Transform ordinary asparagus into a mouthwatering, creamy, and cheesy sensation that will make vegetable lovers and skeptics alike crave more.
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as an impressive side dish that pairs wonderfully with various main courses like roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak.
• Enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional side dishes, combining the nutritional benefits of asparagus with the irresistible comfort of melted cheese.

Ingredients for Gooey Cheesy Baked Asparagus

• Asparagus: Fresh, tender green vegetable that forms the base of this delicious side dish.
• Heavy Cream: Creamy liquid that adds richness and helps create a luxurious sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, aged cheese that provides a deep, nutty flavor to the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, melty cheese that creates a stretchy and gooey topping.

• Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the asparagus.
• Garlic: Minced aromatic that adds a pungent and savory depth to the recipe.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy ingredient that brings a gentle heat to the dish.

• Baking Dish: Standard 9'x13' pan used to prepare and bake the asparagus.

Kitchen Tools for Baking Cheesy Asparagus

• 9×13 baking dish: Essential for evenly spreading asparagus and creating a perfect cheesy layer.
• Chef's knife: Needed to trim asparagus ends and mince fresh garlic.
• Grater: Perfect for shredding mozzarella and grating fresh Parmesan cheese.
• Measuring spoons: Helps accurately season with salt and pepper.
• Oven mitts: Crucial for safely handling hot baking dish.

How to Bake Cheesy Asparagus with a Crisp Finish

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C) and get ready for some serious veggie magic.

Step 2: Arrange Asparagus Base

Grab a 9’x13′ baking dish and lovingly spread out your asparagus.

Now pour on the decadent heavy cream and sprinkle minced garlic all over for an extra flavor punch.

Step 3: Season with Flair

• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Make sure every green spear gets some seasoning love.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

• Freshly grated Parmesan
• Shredded mozzarella

Feeling adventurous?

Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and let it transform for 25 to 30 minutes.

You’re looking for golden, melty cheese and tender asparagus that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Dive Right In

Pull out your masterpiece and serve immediately.

Get ready to experience a side dish that’ll make everyone at the table swoon.

Tips for Extra Cheesy, Perfectly Roasted Asparagus

• Choose bright green, firm stalks with tight, compact tips for the best texture and flavor.
• Cut or snap off the tough, woody ends of asparagus to ensure tender, edible spears throughout the dish.
• Watch closely during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent cheese from burning while achieving perfect golden browning.
• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or use low-fat milk to reduce calories.
• Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or basil sprinkled on top before baking to elevate the overall taste profile.

Tasty Add-Ins for Cheesy Baked Asparagus

• Vegan Veggie Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Swap mozzarella with vegan cheese shreds for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Carb Keto Version: Substitute asparagus with zucchini or green beans. Keep the cheese and cream the same for a keto-friendly side dish that maintains rich flavors.
• Herb-Infused Variation: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil before baking to elevate the aromatic profile. Sprinkle chopped herbs on top after cooking for an extra burst of freshness.
• Mediterranean Spin: Include crumbled feta cheese instead of mozzarella. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some dried oregano for a Greek-inspired vegetable side.

Serving Cheesy Asparagus as a Standout Side

• Elegant Dinner Party Delight: Serve this cheesy asparagus as a sophisticated side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon for an impressive meal.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Pair with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce to create a luxurious weekend brunch that will wow your guests with minimal effort.
• Quick Lunch Companion: Enjoy as a standalone light lunch with a crusty baguette slice, turning this simple vegetable dish into a satisfying midday meal.
• Appetizer Transformation: Cut into smaller portions and serve on toothpicks as an elegant appetizer during cocktail parties or gatherings, letting the cheesy goodness shine.

How to Store Cheesy Asparagus

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, keeping the cheesy asparagus fresh and delicious.
• Warm the dish at 350F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent cheese from burning and maintain moisture.
• Zap leftovers in 30-second intervals, stirring between each burst to ensure even heating and prevent rubbery texture.
• Skip freezing this dish, as cream-based sauces and tender asparagus can separate and lose their original creamy, tender quality when thawed.

FAQs

• Is asparagus good for me?

Asparagus is packed with nutrients like vitamins K, C, and A, plus it’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent healthy vegetable choice for your diet.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

While Parmesan and mozzarella work perfectly, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like gruyère, fontina, or even cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.

• How do I know if my asparagus is fresh?

Look for bright green, firm stalks with tight, compact tips. Avoid asparagus that looks wilted, slimy, or has dry, wrinkled ends, which indicate it’s past its prime.

Cheesy Baked Asparagus Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cheesy baked asparagus highlights spring’s fresh harvest with crisp green spears and melted parmesan. Crisp edges and creamy cheese create a simple side dish perfect for family dinners and elegant gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) asparagus, stalks trimmed
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded mozzarella

Dairy and Seasoning:

• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• Red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Prepare a 9’x13′ baking dish and preheat the oven to 400F (200C), ensuring even heat distribution for optimal cooking.
2. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer across the baking dish, creating a uniform base for the creamy, cheesy creation.
3. Drizzle heavy cream evenly over the asparagus, allowing the liquid to pool slightly around the vegetables for rich, decadent flavor.
4. Sprinkle minced garlic across the surface, distributing the aromatic ingredient to enhance the overall taste profile.
5. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each asparagus spear is well-seasoned.
6. Liberally coat the asparagus with freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella, creating a luxurious cheese blanket.
7. For those craving a hint of heat, dust the surface with red pepper flakes to add a subtle kick.
8. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, watching for golden, bubbling cheese and tender asparagus.
9. Remove from the oven and serve immediately, savoring the harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and vegetable flavors.

Notes

• Choose firm, bright green asparagus spears with tightly closed tips for the best texture and flavor when baking.
• Trim woody ends before cooking to ensure tender, delicious bites that aren’t tough or stringy.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like gruyère or sharp cheddar to create unique flavor profiles that complement the asparagus.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or vegetable broth to reduce calories while maintaining a creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 17 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg