This Cheesy Baked Asparagus is the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-packed side dish! Tender roasted asparagus spears are drizzled in garlicky olive oil, topped with melty mozzarella cheese, and broiled until bubbly and golden. Perfectly balanced between healthy and indulgent, it’s a 20-minute recipe that pairs beautifully with chicken, beef, pork, or your favorite plant-based mains.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 pound (500 g) fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (about 4 cloves)

• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 1¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Arrange asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the asparagus and toss to coat evenly.

4. Roast for 10–15 minutes, until asparagus is vibrant and just tender.

5. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the asparagus.

6. Switch oven to broil or grill mode. Broil for 4–5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Nutrients (per serving, approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: ~220 kcal

• Protein: ~10g

• Carbohydrates: ~6g

• Fat: ~18g

• Fiber: ~2g

• Sugar: ~2g

• Sodium: ~450mg

• Calcium: ~200mg

The Beauty of Asparagus in Everyday Cooking

Asparagus is often considered a spring vegetable, but thanks to modern availability, it’s easy to find nearly year-round. Its earthy, slightly sweet flavor and crisp-tender texture make it one of the most versatile vegetables in the kitchen. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and adds a pleasant depth, while still maintaining its delicate freshness. In this dish, asparagus is elevated from a basic side into a cheesy, craveable, and satisfying plate element that complements almost any protein or grain-based meal.

Mozzarella Magic: Melty and Mild

What truly sets this dish apart is the use of mozzarella cheese. Known for its soft melt and mild flavor, mozzarella doesn’t overpower the asparagus—it enhances it. As it melts, it creates a creamy, gooey blanket that contrasts beautifully with the slight snap of roasted asparagus spears. When broiled, the cheese bubbles up and begins to turn golden brown in spots, adding both texture and that irresistible visual appeal. The result is a side dish that feels indulgent but still supports a balanced, wholesome plate.

Garlic and Olive Oil: A Mediterranean Influence

Garlic and olive oil are staples in Mediterranean cooking for a reason—they pack a punch with minimal effort. When garlic is finely minced and mixed into quality olive oil, it becomes a simple but powerful flavor base that seeps into every crevice of the asparagus. As the vegetables roast, the garlic mellows and sweetens, becoming almost caramelized in taste. Meanwhile, the olive oil ensures even roasting and gives the final dish a beautiful sheen and richness. This combination not only elevates flavor but also adds essential healthy fats and antioxidants to the dish.

Balancing Health and Indulgence

While cheese isn’t typically the first ingredient that comes to mind for a healthy vegetable side, this dish manages to strike the right balance between health-conscious and indulgent. Each serving contains about 220 calories and 10 grams of protein, making it a smart choice for those who want a side that satisfies without sabotaging dietary goals. The asparagus brings fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and antioxidants to the table, while olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats. The mozzarella adds calcium and protein, rounding out the dish with both substance and flavor.

Quick, Easy, and Weeknight-Friendly

One of the best things about Cheesy Baked Asparagus is how quickly it comes together. With a total cooking time of around 20 minutes—including prep, roasting, and broiling—it’s a fantastic option for busy evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It also uses just one baking sheet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The straightforward preparation also makes it ideal for beginner cooks or those looking to introduce children to the joys of cooking with vegetables.

Versatile and Pairing-Friendly

This cheesy side dish can be paired with almost anything. Its flavor profile works seamlessly with grilled chicken, baked salmon, roasted pork, or even hearty vegetarian mains like mushroom risotto or lentil patties. Its creamy-cheesy nature also means it can complement spicier mains, such as Cajun-seasoned proteins or chili-glazed tofu, acting as a mellow, rich contrast. It’s equally at home on a casual weeknight plate or as part of a more elaborate holiday meal spread. You can even serve it as an appetizer or brunch component alongside eggs and crusty bread.

Make-Ahead and Customization Tips

While best enjoyed fresh from the oven, Cheesy Baked Asparagus can be prepped in advance for easier weeknight execution. Simply toss the asparagus in the garlic oil mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also pre-shred your mozzarella and have everything ready to go in the oven at a moment’s notice.

Customization is easy too. If you want to add a sharper edge to the dish, consider mixing in a bit of Parmesan or Gruyère with the mozzarella. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika can add some heat or depth. For a crunchier finish, try topping the dish with seasoned breadcrumbs before broiling.

Perfect for Entertaining or Solo Meals

Despite its simplicity, Cheesy Baked Asparagus makes an excellent side dish for entertaining. The visual appeal of golden cheese bubbling over vibrant green spears makes it an eye-catching addition to any table. It’s also vegetarian-friendly, ensuring it will satisfy a wider range of guests. On the flip side, the recipe easily scales down for solo diners or couples looking for a cozy, satisfying meal without leftovers.

It also works well as a “bridge dish”—something to help ease picky eaters or children into eating more vegetables. The familiar and comforting presence of cheese often helps make vegetables more appealing, and the straightforward, non-bitter taste of asparagus is a good place to start.

An Ideal Addition to Any Seasonal Menu

While it’s appropriate year-round, this dish truly shines in the spring and early summer when asparagus is at its peak. During these months, the spears are thinner, sweeter, and more tender—perfect for quick roasting and minimal prep. That said, thicker spears can also work beautifully when roasted a few minutes longer to ensure tenderness. No matter the season, the combination of cheese and garlicky asparagus offers a warm, satisfying dish that feels just right.

Conclusion: Where Simplicity Meets Satisfaction

Cheesy Baked Asparagus proves that with a few quality ingredients and a little oven magic, you can transform an everyday vegetable into a side dish worth savoring. It brings together the best of both worlds—fresh, nutritious asparagus and comforting, melted mozzarella—in a way that’s easy, elegant, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something deliciously green, this dish delivers. It’s more than just a side—it’s a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and the joy of great food made easy.