Name: Cheesy Baked Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds asparagus, stalks trimmed; 3/4 cup heavy cream; The Recipe Critic; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

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Indulge in this Cheesy Baked Asparagus, featuring tender asparagus spears smothered in a rich blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, infused with garlic and a touch of cream. This easy, restaurant-quality side dish is the perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds asparagus, stalks trimmed

¾ cup heavy cream

The Recipe Critic

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Kosher salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and arrange them in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Pour the heavy cream evenly over the asparagus.

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the spears.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Spread the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

If using, sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the asparagus is tender.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Different Cheeses: Try Gruyère, cheddar, or fontina for a unique flavor.

Add Protein: Crumbled bacon or diced ham can add extra heartiness.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Herb Boost: Fresh thyme or basil can bring in more aromatic flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep the asparagus from getting soggy?

Avoid overbaking and make sure to use fresh, firm asparagus spears.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with cheesy baked asparagus?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or even a hearty pasta dish.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Fresh asparagus works best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before baking to prevent excess moisture.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese amount slightly.

Conclusion

Cheesy baked asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings out the best in fresh asparagus. With its creamy, garlicky, and cheesy goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits any occasion. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is bound to become a favorite.

Recipe:

Cheesy Baked Asparagus

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Fresh asparagus spears baked under a layer of creamy, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, infused with garlic and a touch of cream. This rich and savory side dish is easy to make and brings a restaurant-quality touch to any meal.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the trimmed asparagus in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the asparagus.
Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and black pepper on top.
Layer Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.