Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus

This Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus is one of my favorite go-to side dishes when I want something quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress. With tender-crisp asparagus, a touch of garlic, and a gooey layer of melted mozzarella on top, it’s a savory, satisfying addition to any meal. I love how it only takes a few simple ingredients to create a dish that feels special but is effortless enough for weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and works with just about any protein. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, garlic adds that familiar punch, and the cheese makes it irresistible. Whether I’m serving steak, chicken, or even salmon, this dish ties it all together without fuss. Plus, it’s gluten-free, low-carb, and super family-friendly.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh asparagus
• Olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (freshly grated is best, but pre-shredded works too)

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Asparagus
I start by snapping off the woody ends of the asparagus. I find the natural breaking point by bending each spear near the bottom—where it snaps is where I trim. Then I rinse the spears and pat them dry with a towel.

Step 2: Season
I spread the asparagus on a foil-lined baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Then I drizzle them with a little olive oil, sprinkle on the garlic, salt, and pepper, and gently rub everything together so the spears are evenly coated.

Step 3: Roast
I roast the asparagus in a preheated oven at 415°F (210°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. They should be bright green and just tender when I poke them with a fork.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Broil
As soon as the asparagus is roasted, I sprinkle it with shredded mozzarella cheese and pop the tray under the broiler for a few minutes—just until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15–18 minutes to cook, so I have it on the table in under 25 minutes.

Variations

• Different cheese: I sometimes swap mozzarella for shredded Parmesan, fontina, or even a sharp white cheddar.
• Extra flavor: A sprinkle of Italian herbs or red pepper flakes adds a nice twist.
• Lemon zest: I add a little lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, tangy finish.
• Add crunch: Toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts sprinkled over the cheese gives a fun texture boost.
• Use other veggies: This same method works beautifully with broccoli, green beans, or zucchini.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop it in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F until warm. The broiler helps bring back a bit of that cheesy crispness. I avoid microwaving it if I want to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Fresh is best for roasting, but if I use frozen, I thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Otherwise, it might steam instead of roast.

What’s the best cheese for melting?

Mozzarella is my go-to for a stretchy, mild melt. But I also like mixing in a little Parmesan for extra depth.

How do I prevent soggy asparagus?

I avoid using too much oil and make sure the asparagus is spread out on the pan. Crowding traps steam and leads to sogginess.

Can I roast this in the air fryer?

Yes! I air fry the seasoned asparagus at 400°F for about 7–9 minutes, then top with cheese and return it to melt for another minute or two.

Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely. While it’s best fresh, I sometimes prep a batch and reheat individual portions during the week as an easy side for lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus is a simple side dish I keep on rotation because it’s quick, versatile, and always delicious. Whether I’m feeding family or guests, it gets devoured fast—and no one guesses how easy it was to make. Roasting brings out all the flavor, and that golden layer of cheese makes it pure comfort on a plate.

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