Description

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus turns fresh spears into a crispy, cheesy, garlicky side in under 20 minutes. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, this tender-yet-crisp veggie dish pairs with everything—from grilled meats and fish to pasta, risotto, and brunch favorites.

Ingredients

Scale

1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb), washed and trimmed
2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional add-ins:

Lemon zest and/or a squeeze of lemon juice
Pinch of red pepper flakes
2–3 tbsp seasoned breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Instructions

Preheat: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment or lightly coat with non-stick spray.
Trim: Snap off woody ends (or trim 1–2 inches) so spears are tender.
Season: Arrange asparagus on the pan. Drizzle with olive oil; add garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and spread in a single layer.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the spears (let some fall on the pan for crispy bits). Add optional red pepper flakes or lemon zest.
Roast: Bake 12–15 minutes (thicker spears need the full time) until crisp-tender with lightly browned tips and golden cheese. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle on during the last 5 minutes.
Finish & Serve: Add a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Notes

Don’t crowd the pan: Space spears out to roast (crowding causes steaming).
Watch the cheese: Parmesan can brown quickly—check during the last few minutes.
Thickness matters: Thin asparagus cooks faster; start checking at 10–11 minutes.
Dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Serving ideas: Great with salmon, chicken, pasta, risotto, poached eggs, or over polenta.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for a few minutes to revive crispness.

Flavor Variations

Zesty Lemon: Lemon zest before roasting + juice after baking.
Italian-Style: Add Italian seasoning, thyme, or oregano.
Extra Cheesy: Mix Parmesan with mozzarella for a melty finish.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasted
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Parmesan Roasted Asparagus, asparagus with parmesan and garlic, easy roasted asparagus, asparagus side dish, asparagus seasoning recipes, sheet pan vegetables, low carb side