Description
Enjoy a creamy and cheesy baked asparagus dish featuring fresh asparagus smothered in a rich blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. This delightful recipe is perfect as a side or a vegetarian main, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Trim the tough ends of the asparagus by bending the stalk until it snaps or cutting about 1-2 inches off the bottom.
- In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the trimmed asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk (about 2-3 minutes).
- Fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, reserving a small handful for topping.
- Taste the cheese mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on top of the cheese mixture.
- Spoon the remaining cheese mixture over the asparagus, ensuring each stalk is covered. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Check halfway through baking; cover loosely with aluminum foil if the cheese is browning too quickly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish or main vegetarian dish, pairing well with grilled chicken, steak, or a hearty grain salad.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes