Imagine transforming ordinary asparagus into a gourmet masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Roasted Asparagus with Creamy Cheese recipe is not just a side dish—it's a culinary experience that elevates simple vegetables into a luxurious, mouth-watering delight. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that looks impressive and tastes even better.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even roasting.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold running water, then pat dry completely with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by holding each spear and gently bending until it naturally breaks at the tender point, typically about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on a large baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the asparagus to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crisp at the edges, with a vibrant green color.
- While the asparagus is roasting, mix the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl until well combined and smooth.
- Remove the roasted asparagus from the oven and immediately transfer to a serving platter.
- Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the hot asparagus, allowing the warmth to slightly melt the cheese and create a luxurious coating.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with additional freshly ground black pepper or chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm asparagus with tight, compact tips for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat asparagus completely dry before roasting to ensure crispy, not soggy, results.
- Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give asparagus space to roast evenly.
- Watch carefully during the last few minutes of roasting to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or lemon zest before roasting.
- Serve immediately after adding the cheese to enjoy the perfect melted consistency.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like adding some sharp cheddar or goat cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
