Description
Cheesy Bacon Asparagus Bake
Ingredients
1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the asparagus: Lay the trimmed asparagus spears in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Add toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus. Scatter the crumbled bacon on top.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and enjoy: Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite meal or enjoy it as a savory snack!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 200 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, ensure your asparagus spears are uniformly trimmed by snapping off the woody ends. Arrange them in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure even cooking. After drizzling with oil and seasoning, use your hands to gently toss and coat each spear. For the cheese, a combination of mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for a salty, nutty flavor is key. Distribute the cheeses evenly, getting into the crevices. Finally, sprinkle the bacon crumbles last so they stay crisp on top during baking. Bake on the center rack for 12-15 minutes, checking at the 12-minute mark for doneness.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. For a classic dinner, serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pan-seared salmon. It makes an impressive addition to a holiday spread, complementing roast turkey or ham. For a low-carb feast, pair it with other roasted vegetables and a protein of your choice. You can also top it with a fried egg for a decadent brunch option or chop it up and fold it into scrambled eggs.
How-to Summary
Trim asparagus and place in a baking dish. Toss with oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Top evenly with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and crumbled bacon. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until asparagus is tender and cheese is bubbly. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus? It’s not recommended. Frozen asparagus becomes too watery and mushy when baked. Fresh asparagus is essential for the right texture.
How do I properly trim asparagus? Hold one spear at each end and bend it until it snaps naturally. It will break at the point where the tough, woody part meets the tender stalk. Use this spear as a guide to trim the rest of the bunch with a knife.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the components ahead. Trim the asparagus, cook and crumble the bacon, and mix the cheeses. Store separately in the fridge and assemble just before baking for the best texture.
What can I substitute for bacon? For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use chopped sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for a savory, umami-rich alternative.
My cheese isn’t browning. What can I do? If the asparagus is cooked but the cheese needs more color, switch your oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the baking dish, as this will steam the asparagus instead of roasting it. Do not use pre-shredded bagged cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. Ensure your bacon is fully cooked and crispy before crumbling; soft bacon will become chewy in the oven. Finally, do not skip the step of tossing the asparagus with oil and seasonings before adding cheese, as this ensures every bite is flavorful.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon Asparagus Bake is the ultimate proof that simple ingredients can create a spectacular side dish. In just 20 minutes, you transform fresh asparagus into a creamy, savory, and satisfying bake that appeals to both vegetable lovers and skeptics alike. Its perfect balance of textures and flavors, along with its incredible versatility, makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again for easy weeknight dinners and special occasions.