Description
This Cheesy Baked Asparagus recipe is a simple and delicious side dish featuring tender asparagus spears baked to perfection with olive oil, garlic powder, and a melty blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Finished with a fresh drizzle of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley, it’s perfect for a quick healthy accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Season Asparagus: Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly. Toss the asparagus gently to coat each spear thoroughly with the seasonings.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the asparagus for 12 to 15 minutes, checking that the spears become tender but still retain a slight crispness.
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, evenly sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the asparagus, then return it to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and turns lightly golden.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the baked asparagus with fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley before serving to add brightness and color to the dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning over the asparagus before baking.
- Cheddar or Gruyère cheese can be substituted for a different cheesy taste.
- This dish pairs wonderfully as a side with chicken, fish, or steak.
