Seafood

Cheesy Baked Asparagus

 

 

Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes Servings: 4 Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 bunches asparagus, trimmed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pour the heavy cream into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
  3. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in the dish, making sure they are evenly distributed.
  4. Season the asparagus with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the asparagus, covering them completely.
  6. Top the dish with grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it’s spread out evenly.
  7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the asparagus is tender yet still crisp.
  8. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
  9. Serve the cheesy baked asparagus hot as a side dish or as a tasty appetizer. Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy cheese and tender asparagus!

Note: You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and visual appeal.

Here are some tips to make your Cheesy Baked Asparagus even more delightful:

  1. Choose Fresh Asparagus: Opt for fresh, firm asparagus spears with tight tips for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Trim Properly: Make sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears before baking to ensure they cook evenly and are tender throughout.
  3. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Season the asparagus with salt and pepper to taste before adding the cheese for a boost of flavor.
  4. Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack and Parmesan are delicious choices, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, Gruyere, or mozzarella to customize the flavor to your liking.
  5. Add Aromatic Flavors: Enhance the dish with aromatic ingredients like minced garlic, shallots, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor.
  6. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Before adding the cheese, drizzle the asparagus with a bit of olive oil to help them roast and develop a richer flavor.
  7. Broil for Crispy Tops: For an extra crispy and golden cheesy crust, broil the dish for a couple of minutes after baking until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  8. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or basil over the baked asparagus just before serving to add freshness and a pop of color.
  9. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of creamy hollandaise sauce, tangy balsamic glaze, or zesty aioli for dipping to complement the cheesy goodness of the asparagus.
  10. Pair with Wine: Serve your cheesy baked asparagus with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for a perfect pairing that enhances the flavors of the dish.

With these tips, your Cheesy Baked Asparagus will surely be a hit at any gathering or family meal!

Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Cheesy Baked Asparagus:

  1. Blanch the Asparagus: Before baking, blanch the asparagus spears in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps to preserve their vibrant green color and ensures they are perfectly tender when baked.
  2. Dry the Asparagus: After blanching, make sure to pat the asparagus spears dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This prevents the asparagus from becoming soggy during baking and helps the cheese adhere better to the surface.
  3. Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheeses with good melting properties for the best results. Freshly grated cheese will melt more evenly and create a smoother, creamier texture than pre-packaged cheese.
  4. Layer the Ingredients: Layering the ingredients in the baking dish ensures that each bite of asparagus is coated in creamy cheese goodness. Start with a layer of heavy cream, followed by the seasoned asparagus, and finally, the shredded cheese.
  5. Cover While Baking: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first half of baking helps to trap steam and ensures that the asparagus cooks through evenly without drying out. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
  6. Watch the Oven Temperature: Keep an eye on the oven temperature to prevent the cheese from burning. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, tent the baking dish with foil or reduce the oven temperature slightly.
  7. Allow Resting Time: Let the Cheesy Baked Asparagus rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve without the cheese sliding off.
  8. Garnish Before Serving: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the baked asparagus just before serving to add a burst of freshness and flavor.

By following these secrets, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of creamy cheese, tender asparagus, and delicious flavor in every bite of your Cheesy Baked Asparagus.

Here are some popular questions and answers related to cheesy baked asparagus:

  1. How do I make cheesy baked asparagus?
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle grated cheese (like Parmesan or cheddar) over the top. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  2. What cheese works best for cheesy baked asparagus?
    • Parmesan cheese is a classic choice for cheesy baked asparagus, but you can also use other hard cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Asiago. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite flavor combination.
  3. Can I add other seasonings to my cheesy baked asparagus?
    • Absolutely! Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or herbs like thyme or rosemary can add extra flavor to your cheesy baked asparagus. Sprinkle them over the asparagus along with the cheese before baking.
  4. How long does it take to bake cheesy asparagus?
    • It typically takes around 10-15 minutes to bake cheesy asparagus at 400°F (200°C), but the exact time may vary depending on the thickness of your asparagus spears and your oven. Keep an eye on them while they’re baking and remove them from the oven when the asparagus is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Can I make cheesy baked asparagus ahead of time?
    • While cheesy baked asparagus is best served fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the asparagus and cheese mixture ahead of time and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just store the prepared asparagus in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
  6. Is cheesy baked asparagus a healthy dish?
    • Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, and baking it with a little bit of cheese can add flavor without adding too many extra calories. Just be mindful of portion sizes and the amount of cheese you use if you’re watching your calorie intake.