Name: Cheesy Baked Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Asparagus; 0.5 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 0.25 cup Mayonnaise; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 0.125 teaspoon Black pepper

Okay, friends, let me tell you about this.What are some of the best baked asparagus. It’s seriously a game-changer. I know, I know, asparagus can sometimes feel a little…blah. But trust me on this one. This isn’t your grandma’s boiled asparagus! Think of it like the sophisticated, cheesy cousin of mac and cheese, but, you know, with vegetables. Growing up, my mom always tried to get us to eat our greens, and let’s just say asparagus wasn’t always met with enthusiasm. But adding cheese? That’s a different story. This recipe is so easy, even my picky eaters gobble it right up. And honestly, I sneak it in as a side dish even when I think they need a little extra veggie boost. It’s that good, and that simple.

What is a Cheesy Baked Asparagus

Think of What are some of the best baked asparagusAsparagus spears are tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce and then topped with asparagus. This dish is delicious. Baked until golden brown. Do not overbake. What’s a super easy way to elevate asparagus from simple side dish to something truly special? The cheese melts and creates this delicious coating that perfectly complements the slightly bitter, slightly sour, cheese. What is the grassy flavor of asparagus? Is it a complicated dish but it delivers big flavor with minimal effort? It’s not super heavy either, so you feel good about eating your veggies. What are some good side dishes to serve on a weeknight? I always make a double batch because it disappears so quickly!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why am I so obsessed with this topic?What are some of the best baked asparagus, but here are a few of my favorites:

Flavor explosion: WhatThe combination of fresh asparagus, creamy sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese is just divine. Is it addictive?
Super simple: Seriously, this recipe is ridiculously easy. It only takes a few minutes to prep, and then the oven does all the work. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. I can throw it together even when I’m feeling totally wiped.
Budget friendly Asparagus is relatively inexpensive, especially when it’s in season, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. It’s a great way to feed a family without breaking the bank.
Versatile:This dish goes with pretty much anything. I’ve served it with grilled chicken, steak, fish, and even pasta. Is it good to eat alone as a light lunch? Honestly, sometimes I just eat it straight from the baking dish!

What I love most about this recipe is that it transforms asparagus into something everyone enjoys. Even my kids, who are notorious vegetable haters, devour this stuff. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cheese. I’ve tried it with Gruyere, Parmesan, and even a little bit of pepper jack – all delicious! If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy asparagus, look no further. This is it. You might also enjoy my recipe for cheesy broccoli casserole, it’s a similar concept and equally yummy!

How do I make cheesy baked asparagus?

Quick Overview

Making What are some of the best baked asparagus is surprisingly simple. You basically toss the asparagus with a creamy cheese sauce, spread it in a baking dish, and bake until golden brown and bubbly. The secret is not to overcook the asparagus so it retains a bit of its crunch. It’s a fuss-free recipe that delivers impressive results every time. If I’m feeling really fancy, I sometimes add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch, but it’s totally optional.

Ingredients

For the Asparagus: What

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed: Look for asparagus spears that are firm and bright green. Thicker spears are usually more tender. I like to snap off the tough ends, usually about an inch or two from the bottom.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a nice flavor and helps the asparagus roast evenly. Can you use melted butter?
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning!

What is the cheese sauce?

Is it safe to use unsalted butter in a sauce?
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps to thicken the sauce.
1 1/2 cups milk: 1 cup yoghurt What is the best sauce to make? Whole milk or almond milk? How can I reduce my body fat? I’ve even used oat milk and it worked surprisingly well!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the cheese.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, but with a milder flavor.
1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a hint of smokiness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: 1 teaspoon salt: 2 teaspoons What is the best cheddar cheese to use? What are some good cheeses to try: Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a combination of them?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the asparagus from sticking. I always do this step first so the oven is ready to go when I am. Also, a glass baking dish works best, but a metal one will do in a pinch. Just watch it closely to prevent burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

Wash and trim the asparagus. Snap off the tough ends, usually about an inch or two from the bottom. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Set aside. Make sure the asparagus is evenly coated. This is important for even roasting and flavor. I like to use my hands to do this, it gets the seasoning in all the nooks and crannies.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a thick roux, which will thicken the sauce. It should look like smooth paste. Don’t let it brown, just cook it until it smells slightly nutty. If it burns, you’ll have to start over.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Whisk in the onion powder, garlic powder and paprika. Mix well. What is the best way to cook cheddar cheese? How thick is the sauce?

Step 5: Combine & Bake

Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus in the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Spread the asparagus in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. This is important so the asparagus cooks evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it, baking times can vary depending on your oven.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let the What are some of the best baked asparagusHow do I cool my mouth before serving? What are some good ways to serve this dish hot or cold? I usually eat it right away, but it’s also good reheated the next day.

What should I serve it with?

What is the best way to bake asIs incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many dishes. What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?

Grilled Chicken or Fish: The cheesy asparagus makes a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. It adds a touch of richness and flavor to the meal.
Steak: A classic combination! The asparagus provides a nice contrast to the richness of the steak.
Pasta: Toss the asparagus with your favorite pasta for a simple and satisfying meal. I love it with penne or farfalle.
Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside roasted potatoes for a hearty and comforting meal.
As a Side Dish: It’s a great addition to any potluck or holiday gathering.

My family loves it with roasted chicken on Sunday nights. It’s also great for holidays like Easter or Thanksgiving. I’ve even served it as a side at a barbecue. It’s always a hit! Sometimes, I’ll add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors. It’s especially good with fish.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Baked Asparagus

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to make the best Cheesy Baked Asparagus:

Don’t overcook the asparagus: You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked asparagus is just sad.
Use fresh, high-quality asparagus: The better the asparagus, the better the dish. Look for spears that are firm and bright green.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the cheese: Try different cheeses to find your favorite combination. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of blue cheese would be delicious.
Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra crunch: This is optional, but it adds a nice textural element to the dish. I like to use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Adjust the seasoning to your liking: Don’t be afraid to add more or less salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder to suit your taste.
Use a good quality baking dish: A glass baking dish will ensure even cooking and prevent the asparagus from sticking.

One thing I learned the hard way is to not overcrowd the baking dish. If the asparagus is too crowded, it will steam instead of roast. Also, make sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for the cheese sauce to prevent scorching. I once tried to make it in a thin aluminum pot and ended up with a burnt, lumpy mess! Trust me, a good saucepan makes all the difference.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Cheesy Baked Asparagus is best served fresh, but it can be stored and reheated if you have leftovers. Here are a few tips:

Room Temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than two hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing Cheesy Baked Asparagus as the texture of the asparagus and cheese sauce may change upon thawing. The asparagus can get mushy and the cheese sauce can separate.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since I do not recommend freezing, the glaze should be added right before serving for the best flavor.

When reheating, I sometimes add a little extra cheese on top to freshen it up. Also, if the asparagus seems a little dry, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the baking dish before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a 1:1 replacement. I’ve had good luck with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will be just as delicious.

Do I need to peel the asparagus?

Generally, you don’t need to peel asparagus, especially if you’re using thinner spears. However, if you’re using thicker spears, you may want to peel the bottom third of the stalk to remove any tough outer layer. It’s up to you! I usually don’t bother.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or diced bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. I’ve even thrown in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains cellulose which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. I recommend shredding your own cheese for the best results.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the asparagus and cheese sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, just combine and bake when you’re ready to serve. I wouldn’t bake it completely ahead of time, as it can get a bit mushy.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! My go-to recipe for Cheesy Baked Asparagus. I hope you’ll give it a try. It’s truly a simple way to make a vegetable side dish that everyone will enjoy. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with the fresh asparagus is simply irresistible. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other vegetable side dishes! Happy cooking, friends! Let me know in the comments how yours turns out. I’d love to hear about your variations too!