Asparagus Parmesan Garlic Spears Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these irresistible Asparagus Parmesan Garlic Spears! Perfectly crisp-tender asparagus spears are tossed in a luscious Parmesan garlic butter sauce and broiled to golden perfection. Prepare them ahead of time – cook the asparagus hours or even a day in advance and refrigerate; simply reheat before broiling. Customize the garlic to your liking for a truly unforgettable side dish or light meal. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 23 mins
Calories 309.2 kcal
Protein 25g
Rating 4.8 (4 Reviews)
Asparagus Parmesan Garlic Spears

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus Parmesan Garlic Spears

  • Fresh Asparagus
  • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Dried Basil
  • Fresh Garlic
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Asparagus Parmesan Garlic Spears

  1. Preheat your broiler.
  2. Butter a shallow, broiler-safe casserole dish (approximately 9x13 inches).
  3. Snap off the tough ends of 1 pound of fresh asparagus. Cook asparagus in a large pot of boiling salted water (about 1 teaspoon salt) for 3-4 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat completely dry with paper towels.
  4. Arrange the asparagus spears in the prepared baking dish.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, 2-4 cloves minced garlic (adjust to taste), 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Spoon the garlic Parmesan butter mixture evenly over the asparagus spears.
  7. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy! Best served hot.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

18 g

Sugar

18g

Fat

80g

Carbs

3g