Savor The Burst Of Flavor With Cheesy Baked Asparagus (Print version)

Tender asparagus roasted with garlic and a bubbling mozzarella parmesan crust, ready in 20 minutes.

# Ingredients:

For the asparagus

01 - 1 1/2 lb (680 g) fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - Salt and black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the cheese topping

06 - 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded low-moisture mozzarella
07 - 1/2 cup (50 g) finely grated parmesan
08 - 1/2 lemon, for finishing

# Instructions:

01 - Snap or cut off the woody ends of the asparagus spears. Spread them on a large rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and toss until evenly coated.
02 - Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until the asparagus is just beginning to soften and turn bright green. Thinner stalks may need only 6-8 minutes.
03 - Remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the asparagus, then dust with parmesan. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
04 - Switch the oven to broil. Watch closely and broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is spotted golden brown. Remove immediately to avoid burning.
05 - Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and serve straight from the pan while the cheese is still hot and stretchy.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the cheese is still melted.
02 - Thinner asparagus stalks will cook faster than thick ones.