Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This baked cheesy asparagus recipe is your new go-to for a quick and flavorful side that will impress even the pickiest eaters. It’s the perfect complement to grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty steak. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Asparagus
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the tough ends. You can snap them off easily by bending the stalk until it naturally breaks.
Step 2: Combine the Cheesy Goodness
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This creates a flavorful base for our cheesy asparagus.
Step 3: Toss and Coat
Add the trimmed asparagus to the bowl and toss gently to coat each spear evenly with the butter-garlic mixture. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it – ovens vary!
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. This baked cheesy asparagus is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Cheesy Asparagus:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the asparagus is in a single layer for even cooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker asparagus stalks might require a few extra minutes in the oven.
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to use different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some crunch: Toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts sprinkled on top before baking add a delightful textural contrast.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Asparagus: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the butter-garlic mixture for a bright and zesty twist.
- Bacon-Cheesy Asparagus: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before baking for a salty and savory delight.
- Roasted Garlic Asparagus: Use roasted garlic instead of minced fresh garlic for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This baked cheesy asparagus recipe is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy this healthy green vegetable. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Give it a try and let us know what you think!