Description
This Cheesy Baked Asparagus recipe is a quick and delicious side dish featuring tender asparagus spears topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Lightly seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then baked to perfection for a cheesy, flavorful finish that complements any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat all the spears evenly with the seasonings and oil.
- Initial Baking: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the asparagus for 10 minutes. This softens the asparagus while keeping it tender-crisp.
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes as well.
- Final Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the asparagus with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch, and serve immediately to enjoy the cheese at its melty best.
Notes
- For thicker asparagus, you may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes to ensure tenderness.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on your spice preference.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor, so using fresh grated is best for optimal taste.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian side.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
