Cheesy Asparagus Bake – Looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing side dish? This Cheesy Asparagus Bake has got you covered! Fresh asparagus spears are roasted until tender, then topped with garlic, olive oil, and a blanket of melted mozzarella. It’s an easy, 15-minute recipe that’s full of flavor and feels a bit fancy—even though it’s so simple.
The first time I made this, I was just trying to add something green to the dinner table without a lot of fuss. I wasn’t sure if the family would be on board with asparagus, but adding cheese and garlic? Total game-changer. My husband, who usually ignores the veggies, went in for seconds, and even my fussy eater couldn’t oppose seizing a few spears. Now, this dish has become one of our go-to sides whenever we desire something leisurely but a little more special than steamed veggies.
What makes this Cheesy Asparagus Bake truly special?
This cheesy asparagus bake strikes all the exemplary notes. It’s fast, easy, and loaded with flavor from just a handful of ingredients. The garlic-infused olive oil overcoats the asparagus perfectly, adding richness, while the melted mozzarella gives it that irresistible cheesy finish. And with just 15 minutes in the oven, you’re getting the best of both worlds: fresh, vibrant veggies with a hint of indulgence. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to jazz up a meal without a lot of effort.
What You Need To Make This Cheesy Asparagus Bake Recipe?
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus makes all the difference here! Look for firm, bright green spears. Trim off those tough, woody ends so you’re left with tender stalks that cook up beautifully. If you’re ever in doubt, just bend a stalk gently, and it’ll naturally snap right where the tender part begins.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil really shines in this recipe. It not only helps the asparagus roast perfectly but also adds a nice, subtle richness. You don’t need much, but it brings a ton of flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings that bold, aromatic kick that pairs so well with the asparagus and cheese. I’d say go for the real stuff here if you can; it makes a difference!
Salt and Black Pepper: Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper give this dish just the right seasoning without overpowering it. They keep it simple but flavorful, letting the asparagus and cheese be the stars.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the magic touch here, melting into that gooey, golden layer that makes everything taste better. If you’re a cheese lover, you can even add a little extra for that super cheesy goodness.
Steps To Make Cheesy Asparagus Bake:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and give a baking sheet a light spray with non-stick cooking spray so the asparagus won’t stick.
Arrange the Asparagus: Spread the asparagus spears out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This way, they’ll roast up nice and even.
Make the Garlic Oil: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything’s combined.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Coat the Asparagus: Drizzle the garlic oil over the asparagus, making sure each spear gets a good coating. You can use your hands or a spatula to gently toss them if needed.
Roast: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the asparagus roast for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re bright green and just tender.
Add the Cheese: Take the baking sheet out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Switch your oven to broil (or grill) and return the asparagus to the oven for another 4-5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve: Once the cheese is bubbly and golden, take it out of the oven, season with a little extra salt and pepper if you like, and serve it up hot. Enjoy!
Tip:
For the best flavor and texture, try not to skip broiling the cheese at the end! Roasting gives the asparagus a tender, slightly crispy edge, but broiling the cheese takes it to the next level, giving it a bubbly, golden finish that’s irresistible. Keep an eye on it while broiling; mozzarella melts fast, and you want it perfectly golden without burning. Also, if you love garlic, feel free to add a little extra—it caramelizes slightly in the oven, adding depth to the dish. This quick step is what makes the asparagus feel like a truly special side!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! Parmesan, cheddar, or even a mix of Italian cheeses would work well. Parmesan will add a slightly nutty, sharper flavor, while cheddar gives a richer taste. Just keep an eye on it while broiling as different cheeses may brown faster.
How can I prevent the asparagus from getting too soft?
To keep the asparagus tender but not mushy, watch them around the 10-minute mark. You want them to be bright green and just fork-tender. Over-roasting can make them soft, so if your asparagus spears are thin, they might need even less time.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You’ll still get great flavor from the garlic and olive oil, and the asparagus will roast up beautifully without any cheese.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Cheesy Asparagus Bake
Ingredients
- 1 lb Asparagus 500 grams, woody ends trimmed
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil high-quality extra virgin
- 1 tbsp Garlic, finely minced about 4 cloves
- 3/4 tsp Salt preferably kosher
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper freshly cracked
- 1 1/4 c Mozzarella Cheese finely shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Go ahead and set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it nice and hot. Lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray so the asparagus won’t stick.
- Arrange the Asparagus: Spread the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the baking sheet so they cook evenly. Set it aside for now.
- Make the Garlic Oil: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until everything is combined.
- Coat the Asparagus: Drizzle the garlic oil over the asparagus and toss a bit, making sure each spear is well coated.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the asparagus roast for 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for bright green spears with just the right tenderness.
- Add the Cheese: Take the asparagus out of the oven, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, and switch the oven to broil. Pop the sheet back in for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Season and Serve: If needed, add a pinch of extra salt and pepper, then serve right away to enjoy it at its best!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
