Here’s a deliciously easy recipe for Cheesy Baked Asparagus — crisp-tender spears baked with gooey melted cheese and a touch of garlic. It makes a perfect side dish for steak, chicken, or pasta!
🧀 Cheesy Baked Asparagus
🥬 Ingredients:
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1 bunch fresh asparagus (trimmed)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella (or a blend of mozzarella & cheddar)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🔥 Instructions:
1. Prep Oven & Asparagus:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Wash and trim woody ends off asparagus (snap or cut off the bottom 1–2 inches).
2. Season:
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Place asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
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Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Toss to coat evenly and arrange in a single layer.
3. Add Cheese:
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Sprinkle mozzarella over the middle section of the asparagus.
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Top with Parmesan for extra flavor and crisp.
4. Bake:
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until asparagus is tender and cheese is melted and golden.
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For a bubbly browned top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
5. Serve:
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Let cool slightly, then serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
✅ Variations:
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Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes.
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Swap cheese: Use fontina, gouda, provolone, or gruyère.
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Low-carb meal: Top with a fried or poached egg and serve as a light lunch.