Cheesy Baked Asparagus

Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a savory, comforting side dish that transforms fresh asparagus into a rich and creamy delight. Baked in heavy cream and topped with a golden blend of Parmesan and mozzarella, this dish is perfect for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or any time you want to add a touch of indulgence to your vegetable side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes a simple, healthy vegetable and elevates it with layers of melted cheese and fragrant garlic. It’s quick to prepare, oven-friendly, and a great way to make asparagus more appealing for picky eaters or cheese lovers. The bubbling cheese and tender-crisp asparagus offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lb asparagus, stalks trimmed

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in a 9×13-inch baking dish in an even layer.

3. Add the cream and seasoning: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the asparagus and scatter the minced garlic on top. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

4. Add cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the asparagus. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a subtle kick.

5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted and the asparagus is tender.

6. Serve: Serve warm as a flavorful side dish to poultry, steak, or seafood.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250–280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add breadcrumbs: Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream for added heat.

• Add protein: Include cooked crumbled bacon or pancetta for a meaty variation.

• Cheese options: Use Gruyère, fontina, or provolone in place of or alongside the mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

• Low-carb option: This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for keto diets as is.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, though the texture may be softer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Do I need to blanch the asparagus first?

No blanching is necessary. The asparagus cooks perfectly in the cream during baking.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. For best results, stick with heavy cream.

What’s the best way to trim asparagus?

Snap the woody ends off by bending the stalks gently—they will naturally break at the right point.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble it a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs well with roast chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or pasta dishes.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, it is vegetarian as written. Just ensure your Parmesan is made without animal rennet if strict vegetarian guidelines are needed.

Can I add herbs?

Yes. Fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary can be sprinkled on top before or after baking for added flavor.

Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, just adjust the quantity of asparagus and cheese to fit your dish size and reduce the baking time slightly.

Will the cream curdle?

No, heavy cream is stable in high-heat cooking and will blend with the cheese to form a rich sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a luxurious side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its creamy texture, golden cheese topping, and perfectly cooked asparagus, this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables in a more indulgent form. It’s sure to become a go-to favorite for holidays and everyday meals alike.