This Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Prosciutto recipe is an easy and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion! An irresistible combination of fresh asparagus, melted cheese, and crispy prosciutto. This tasty dish is ready in 25 minutes!
I’ve always found asparagus to be a uniquely delightful vegetable, carrying with it a touch of elegance and sophistication to any dining table. But let’s break away from its prestigious presence and delve into its versatility! Asparagus is not just a springtime favorite, but it’s a veggie superhero loaded with fiber, vitamins, and protein.
Imagine making asparagus even better by adding cheese and prosciutto and then baking it. It’s like having a fancy restaurant meal right at home! This Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Prosciutto recipe makes a simple veggie into a really special dish. Surely, it can make any meal feel like a celebration.
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Why We Love This Recipe
- The combination of tender asparagus and gooey cheese creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Cheesy baked asparagus is quick and simple to make, perfect for busy days.
- A guilt-free treat that satisfies cravings while still being nutritious.
- This recipe is versatile and complements a variety of dishes.
- The golden, cheesy topping adds elegance to the dinner table, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Ingredients
- Asparagus: Fresh, earthy, and slightly grassy. It’s the star, providing a tender yet crisp texture and a vibrant green color.
- Olive Oil: Adds a smooth, rich base, enhancing the asparagus’ natural flavors and preventing it from drying out during baking.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey texture that complements the asparagus.
- Prosciutto: Salty, savory, and slightly crispy when baked. Adds contrast to the soft cheese and tender asparagus.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Cheese Variety: Substitute mozzarella with Gruyere cheese to add a nutty, complex flavor profile.
- Fresh Herbs: You can sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme either over the asparagus before wrapping with the meat or over the top after wrapping.
- Bacon Lovers’ Dream: Instead of prosciutto, wrap the asparagus in thin slices of bacon for a smoky, savory upgrade. Ensure that the bacon is fully cooked before adding the cheese.
How to Make Baked Asparagus with Cheese and Prosciutto
Step #1: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Then, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking oil.
Step #2: Wrap a slice of prosciutto around each asparagus spear.
Step #3: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, and pepper. Drizzle the mixture over the wrapped asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
Step #4: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the asparagus starts to become tender.
Step #5: Take the baking sheet out of the oven, move the asparagus spears close together to minimize gaps, and top them with the mozzarella cheese. Place the baking sheet back in the oven for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese melts and slightly toasted.
Serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Prosciutto Perfection: When buying prosciutto, make sure it’s thinly sliced to allow for even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Even Arrangement: Place the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and a beautifully uniform presentation.
- Asparagus Selection: You can use thick asparagus or thin asparagus. But, medium-sized spears cook more evenly and offer a perfect balance of tenderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monitor the baking time of the dish before the cheese is added and make sure the prosciutto is to the crispy level you want it before adding the cheese. Please note that you don’t want to cook it too long and have the asparagus overcooked, so that is why it is important to buy thin prosciutto and don’t overlap it much when wrapping the asparagus.
No, frozen asparagus won’t work. You must use fresh asparagus in this recipe.
Monitor the baking time of the dish before the cheese is added and make sure the prosciutto is to the crispy level you want it before adding the cheese. Please note that you don’t want to cook it too long and have the asparagus overcooked, so that is why it is important to buy thin prosciutto and don’t overlap it much when wrapping the asparagus.
Grease the baking sheet or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Yes, it’s suitable for convection ovens; adjust the cooking time if needed.
Storage Info
You can store Cheesy baked asparagus for later enjoyment. To store any leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container or wrap it securely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the cheesy baked asparagus, and it should remain fresh for up to 2-3 days.
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Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Prosciutto Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus; woody ends cut off
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 oz. prosciutto - thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Then, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking oil.
- Wrap a slice of prosciutto around each asparagus spear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, and pepper. Drizzle the mixture over the wrapped asparagus and toss to coat evenly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the asparagus starts to become tender.
- Take the baking sheet out of the oven, move the asparagus spears close together to minimize gaps, and top them with the mozzarella cheese. Place the baking sheet back in the oven for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese melts and slightly toasted.
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