Cheesy Baked Asparagus Garlic

Cheesy baked asparagus is my secret weapon whenever I want an impressive yet effortless side dish that wins over even picky eaters. It pairs perfectly with almost anything roasted or grilled and transforms humble asparagus into a showstopper with its golden cheesy topping.

This dish was born on a busy weeknight I was craving something comforting but healthy I threw together what I had and it instantly became a family favorite for holidays and weeknight dinners alike

Ingredients

• Asparagus: About one pound or five hundred grams, fresh is key and thicker stalks work well for extra bite, choose spears with firm tips and deep green color
• Olive Oil: Three tablespoons for moisture and mild flavor, seek out good quality extra virgin olive oil for best taste
• Garlic: One tablespoon finely minced, about four cloves, fresh garlic gives this dish bold character, look for cloves that are plump and free from green shoots
• Salt: Three quarters teaspoon, preferably kosher because it clings and seasons evenly
• Black Pepper: One quarter teaspoon, freshly cracked for a light kick, use a pepper mill for maximum flavor
• Mozzarella Cheese: One and one quarter cups finely shredded so it melts quickly and covers each spear, opt for whole milk mozzarella for the best gooey finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Set your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred twenty degrees Celsius and allow it to fully preheat. Spray a baking sheet lightly with nonstick oil to stop the asparagus from sticking and ensure easy cleanup

Arrange Asparagus:

Spread the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure each spear has a bit of space so it roasts rather than steams

Mix the Flavor Base:

In a small bowl stir together the olive oil minced garlic salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the garlic and seasoning through the oil

Coat the Asparagus:

Pour or drizzle the seasoned oil mixture evenly over the asparagus. Use clean hands or tongs to toss and coat every spear with herb infused goodness

Roast for Tenderness:

Slide the tray into the hot oven. Roast for ten to fifteen minutes depending on spear thickness. You want the asparagus to become vibrantly green and just fork tender

Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle the hot asparagus with the shredded mozzarella while it is still on the tray. Make sure to get some cheese on each spear for full coverage

Melt and Brown the Cheese:

Switch your oven to broil or grill. Return the baking sheet to the oven. Broil for about four to five minutes. Keep a close eye so the cheese melts fully and starts to bubble and brown but does not burn

Finish and Serve:

Take the asparagus out and taste to see if you need another pinch of salt or pepper. Serve immediately to enjoy the tender spears and golden cheese at their peak

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Mozzarella cheese has always been my favorite for this dish as it melts into a velvety blanket My family loves scraping the crispy bits from the pan and I treasure the memory of us huddled in the kitchen sneaking bites before dinner was even on the table

Storage Tips

Cheesy baked asparagus is best served fresh but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days To reheat spread them on a tray in a hot oven just until warmed through This keeps them from getting soggy which can happen in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack Fontina or Gruyere for a slightly sharper flavor If you prefer a non dairy version try sprinkling nutritional yeast and a drizzle of olive oil over the asparagus before broiling

Serving Suggestions

Try this baked asparagus alongside roasted chicken grilled steak a hearty pasta or as part of a brunch spread It is also lovely chopped and mixed into salads or baked into a frittata for breakfast leftovers

Cultural Context

Baked cheesy vegetables are a comfort food tradition in many homes across Europe and America With peak asparagus season in the spring it's easy to see why this dish has stuck around Whether shared at Easter or made for Sunday dinner each bite is loaded with nostalgia

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Whether you create it for a casual weeknight or a special gathering cheesy baked asparagus has a way of making veggies exciting I still smile remembering my kids racing for the cheesiest pieces so be prepared for it to disappear fast

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for topping?

Mozzarella melts well and offers a rich, creamy texture, but Parmesan or Gruyère are also delicious choices.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the asparagus?

Roast just until tender and vibrant, then broil briefly for the cheese to brown. Watch closely under the broiler.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

For best texture, assemble and roast asparagus just before serving. Add cheese and broil at the last moment.

→ Is it possible to use frozen asparagus?

Frozen asparagus can be used, but fully thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture before baking and broiling.

→ What are good flavor additions?

Try sprinkling crushed red pepper, lemon zest, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for extra flavor.