Roasted Parmesan Asparagus

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious side dish, this Roasted Parmesan Asparagus is the answer. With just a handful of ingredients—fresh asparagus, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan—you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in 20 minutes.

This is the kind of recipe that works for everything: from a weeknight chicken dinner to a fancy Easter or Thanksgiving spread. Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, while the Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy finish that takes it over the top.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Parmesan Asparagus

• Quick & easy — ready in just 20 minutes
• Holiday-worthy but simple enough for weeknights
• Healthy, low-carb, and naturally gluten-free
• Family-friendly flavor (even picky eaters love it)
• Pairs with almost any main dish

Variations & Add-Ins

• Cheesy Twist – Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyere along with Parmesan.
• Bacon Lovers – Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top before serving.
• Spicy Kick – Toss asparagus with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Lemon Garlic Asparagus – Add extra garlic and lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
• Asparagus Fries – Coat with breadcrumbs before roasting for a crunchy side.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

• Serve with roast chicken, baked salmon, or steak for an elegant dinner.
• Perfect alongside Easter ham or Thanksgiving turkey.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, corn casserole, or rice pilaf for a full meal.
• Great with pasta dishes like Alfredo or carbonara for a light veggie balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh is best, but frozen can work—just thaw and pat dry to prevent sogginess.

2. How do I keep asparagus from getting mushy?
Roast at high heat (400°F) and don’t overcook—it should stay crisp-tender.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can roast 1–2 hours ahead and reheat at 350°F for 8 minutes.

4. Do I need to peel asparagus?
Not usually. Just trim the woody ends; peeling is only needed if stalks are very thick.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use two baking sheets and rotate halfway for even roasting.

Jana Rae

Roasted Parmesan Asparagus

Quick and easy roasted Parmesan asparagus with garlic and lemon. A healthy, flavorful side dish perfect for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb fresh asparagus trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
• 1 tbsp lemon juice optional
• Lemon slices for garnish

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Method

 

1. Preheat oven – Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare asparagus – Wash and trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears.
3. Season – Place asparagus on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast – Bake for 12–15 minutes, until asparagus is crisp-tender.
5. Add cheese – Remove from oven, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, and return for 2 minutes until melted.
6. Serve – Drizzle with lemon juice, garnish with lemon slices, and serve hot.

Notes

• Make ahead: Trim asparagus up to 24 hours before cooking; roast just before serving.
• Cheese swap: Pecorino Romano or Asiago make great substitutes.
• Extra crunch: Add toasted breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers before roasting.
• Dairy-free option: Skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Grilled variation: Cook on the grill instead of roasting for a smoky summer version.