Description
This Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus recipe delivers tender, flavorful asparagus spears roasted to perfection with garlic and a blend of melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. It’s a quick and easy side dish that pairs wonderfully with any main course, offering a perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for roasting the asparagus evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking during roasting.
- Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus by bending each spear near the base. The asparagus will naturally break where the woody part ends, leaving the tender stalks.
- Arrange Asparagus: Lay the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping for even cooking.
- Season the Asparagus: Drizzle olive oil evenly over the asparagus. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently with your hands or tongs until the asparagus is coated well with the seasoning.
- Roast the Asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still crisp, and lightly browned around the edges.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the asparagus from the oven and evenly sprinkle both the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella on top of the spears.
- Finish Roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Take the asparagus out of the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- To trim asparagus, bend each spear near the base until it snaps naturally; this removes the tough woody part.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; adjust the quantity to your taste preference for spiciness.
- For a crispier texture, make sure asparagus spears are not overcrowded on the baking sheet.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor and melting quality compared to pre-grated.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the cheese while warm and melty.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
