Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Heavy cream provides the best results with its rich texture and ability to withstand high heat without curdling. If you must substitute, use half-and-half rather than milk, and consider adding a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce.

What can I use if I don't have Monterey cheese?

Mozzarella makes an excellent substitute with its similar melting properties. Other great options include provolone, white cheddar, or Swiss cheese. Look for a cheese that melts well and has a mild to medium flavor profile.

Can I make this with other vegetables?

Absolutely! This creamy, cheesy treatment works wonderfully with broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Adjust cooking time accordingly—denser vegetables may need a few extra minutes.

Why is my dish watery after baking?

This typically happens if the asparagus had excess moisture or if the dish was overcrowded. Make sure to thoroughly dry the asparagus after washing, and consider using a larger baking dish if needed to allow more evaporation during cooking.

Cheesy Baked Asparagus Recipe

Name: Cheesy Baked Asparagus Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 bunches asparagus; Salt and pepper (to taste); 2 cups Monterey jack cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Description

This Cheesy Baked Asparagus recipe is a simple yet decadent dish that’s perfect for any meal. Tender, roasted asparagus spears are smothered in creamy Monterey jack cheese and Parmesan, creating a side dish that’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser and pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 bunches asparagus
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 cups Monterey jack cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the dish cooks evenly while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and the asparagus to roast to tender perfection.
Prepare the dish.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, pour the heavy whipping cream at the bottom to create a creamy base. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the dish and season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cheese topping.
Generously sprinkle shredded Monterey jack cheese over the asparagus, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. This cheesy layer will add both richness and a golden crust to the dish.
Bake.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and begins to turn golden. The asparagus should be tender but not overcooked.
Serve.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve as a flavorful and creamy side dish to complement your main course.

Notes

To enhance flavor, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the asparagus before adding the cheese.
For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the cheese for a crispy topping.
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled salmon.
If Monterey jack cheese isn’t available, substitute with mozzarella or Gruyere for a similar creamy texture.
To ensure asparagus cooks evenly, trim the woody ends before placing them in the dish.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 290kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 330mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg