Ah, Cheesy Asparagus—a quick, elegant side that’s perfect with almost any main dish! Here’s a simple, flavorful method that makes the asparagus tender with a cheesy, golden finish.
Cheesy Asparagus
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika or lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Prep the asparagus
- Wash and trim the tough ends off the asparagus.
- Pat dry so they roast or sauté nicely.
2. Cook the asparagus
Option A – Sauté (Stovetop)
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic (if using) and sauté 30 seconds.
- Add asparagus, season with salt and pepper, and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp.
Option B – Roast (Oven)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast 10–12 minutes until tender.
3. Add the cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over asparagus while still hot.
- Option A: Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes so cheese melts.
- Option B: Place roasted asparagus under the broiler 1–2 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
4. Serve
- Optional: Sprinkle with paprika, lemon zest, or fresh herbs for extra brightness.
- Serve hot as a side to chicken, beef, or fish.
Tips
- Cheese choice: Parmesan or Gruyère gives a nutty, sophisticated flavor; cheddar gives a creamy, sharp bite.
- Texture: Don’t overcook—aim for tender-crisp, so it still has a bit of snap.
- Make it indulgent: Add a drizzle of cream before sprinkling cheese for a richer side.
I can also give a one-pan baked cheesy asparagus with breadcrumbs version that gets a crunchy topping and melts perfectly, if you want it extra fancy.
Do you want me to do that?
