Asparagus Baked With Parmesan Cheese
A delicious baked asparagus dish topped with Parmesan cheese and butter, offering a savory, cheesy flavor that’s perfect for elegant dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash asparagus and break off hard ends.
- Steam asparagus in water for about 12 minutes, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Butter a glass baking dish and place a layer of asparagus at the bottom.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and crumbled cold butter.
- Add another layer of asparagus, then cheese and butter, repeating until all asparagus are used with the top layer being cheese and butter.
- Bake in a medium oven (325°F) until the cheese is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding garlic or lemon zest to the layers. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. Ensure the asparagus is tender but still crisp; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. For a twist, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent addition to a main course. Serve alongside a simple salad, like a Marinated 2-Bean Salad, to balance the richness of the cheese. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover cheese and butter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the asparagus in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Baked With Parmesan Cheese contains roughly 235 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 25g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
While fresh asparagus yields the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before baking to prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.
How do I know when the asparagus is done baking?
The dish is ready when the top layer of cheese is golden brown and bubbly. You can also pierce the asparagus with a fork; it should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).