Name: Indulgent Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin: Pure Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus (Look for firm, straight stalks for best results.); 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin adds richness.); 1 tablespoon Garlic (Minced (about 4 cloves).); 3/4 teaspoon Salt (Preferably kosher.); 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked.); 1 1/4 cups Mozzarella Cheese (Finely shredded.); 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Optional, use gluten-free if needed.)

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As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with warmth, I often find inspiration for a quick, flavorful dish that transforms my meals. Enter the Cheesy Baked Asparagus—a delightful twist that elevates simple greens into something magical. Picture this: fresh asparagus spears melting under a gooey blanket of mozzarella, all enriched with the aromatic notes of garlic. It’s a joyous fusion of textures that turns your ordinary weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences.

I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I craved a satisfying side yet wanted to keep things low-carb. In just 20 minutes, I discovered how easy it is to create a deliciously cheesy dish that pairs perfectly with anything from grilled chicken to a fresh salad, making it ideal for both casual dinners and gatherings. So grab your freshest asparagus, and let’s bring a burst of flavor and elegance to the table with this mouthwatering Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin. You won’t believe how simple it is!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Asparagus Gratin

Simplicity at Its Best: This scrumptious dish can be made in just 20 minutes, even on your busiest nights!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh asparagus and gooey mozzarella, enhanced by aromatic garlic, creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a keto diet, making healthy eating enjoyable and guilt-free.
Versatile Side: Pair it with grilled chicken, lemon garlic salmon, or a classic Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, check out my Baked Beans Comfort recipe!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin Ingredients

For the Asparagus
• Asparagus – Fresh, tender spears are the star of this low-carb dish; look for firm, straight stalks for the best results.

For the Coating
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons of extra virgin adds richness while helping the asparagus roast perfectly.
• Garlic – 1 tablespoon minced (about 4 cloves) infuses each bite with aromatic flavor and complements the gooey cheese beautifully.
• Salt – 3/4 teaspoon, preferably kosher, enhances the overall taste, bringing all the flavors together.
• Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked pepper provides a gentle warmth that elevates the dish.

For the Cheesy Topping
• Mozzarella Cheese – 1 1/4 cups finely shredded melts into a deliciously gooey layer over the asparagus, creating a comforting texture.
• Breadcrumbs – Optional for added crunch; consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed for a low-carb alternative.

Enjoy this Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin as a delightful side that blends simplicity with rich flavors—a perfect addition to your meal!

How to Make Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature allows your asparagus to roast perfectly while getting that gorgeous cheese melt.
Prepare a baking sheet by misting it with non-stick spray. This helps the asparagus cook evenly and makes cleanup a breeze!
Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spacing them out allows each spear to roast to vibrant perfection.
Mix together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This flavorful blend will coat your asparagus beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
Drizzle the mixture over the asparagus and toss gently to coat. Make sure every spear gets a lovely touch of the garlicky goodness for maximum flavor.
Roast the asparagus in the oven for 10-15 minutes until it’s vibrant green and slightly tender. You’ll want to remove it when it still has a little crunch!
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the roasted asparagus. Then, broil for 4-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a perfect cheesy blanket.
Serve immediately while hot, adjusting the seasoning if needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is melty and delicious.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin?

Transform your dining experience with delightful pairings that elevate this cheesy side dish into a remarkable meal.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken makes for a perfect companion, balancing the richness of the gratin with its lighter profile.
Lemon Garlic Salmon: The zesty, succulent flavors of salmon enhance the indulgent asparagus, bringing freshness to each bite while complementing the cheese.
Quinoa Salad: This nutritious salad adds a textured crunch and lightness, making it an excellent way to round out the meal with wholesome ingredients.
Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crispy potatoes provide a hearty counterpart, soaking up the creamy goodness of the melted mozzarella and garlic.
Classic Caesar Salad: A caesar salad’s refreshing crispness and tangy dressing contrast beautifully with the gooey cheese, reviving your palate between bites.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings a touch of elegance, its floral notes accentuating the earthy flavors of asparagus while balancing the richness.

These pairings not only complement the delightful Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin but create a symphony of flavors that enchants the senses and satisfies the soul.

Baked Asparagus Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe; it’s an excellent canvas for flavors and adjustments!

Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with Gouda or cheddar for a bolder taste. Each cheese brings a unique flavor profile and texture.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic mixture for an aromatic twist that enhances your dish beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. This adds a unique texture.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up, elevating your baked asparagus to a whole new level of yum!
Vegetable Mix: Swap asparagus for green beans or brussels sprouts to explore different flavors and textures while still keeping it a delicious side dish.
Zesty Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus before serving for a bright, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the cheese.
Dairy-Free Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free version that still delivers on that savory cheesy flavor. It’s a great alternative!
Balsamic Drizzle: A balsamic glaze drizzle post-bake adds a sweet and tangy contrast, taking the flavors to an elevated level.

Let these variations inspire you to make this dish your own, enhancing every bite with delightful surprises!

Expert Tips for Baked Asparagus

Even Coating: Ensure all asparagus spears are evenly coated with oil and seasoning for consistent cooking and maximum flavor.
Cheese Watch: Keep a close eye while broiling, as the mozzarella can burn quickly—remove it when bubbly and golden brown.
Trim Wisely: Trim the woody ends of asparagus for a better texture. A clean cut ensures a delightful crunch in every bite.
Opt for Fresh: Choose fresh, firm stalks of asparagus to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Avoid limp or wilted spears.
Breadcrumb Caution: If freezing leftovers, skip the breadcrumbs to prevent them from getting soggy when reheating.

These expert tips will help you create the most delicious Baked Asparagus every time!

Storage Tips for Baked Asparagus

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the asparagus is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: You can freeze Baked Asparagus for up to 2 months. To do so, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the dish for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore its cheesy goodness.
Avoid Breadcrumbs: If you’re planning to freeze your baked asparagus, leave off the breadcrumbs to prevent them from becoming soggy during reheating.

Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin Recipe FAQs

What type of asparagus should I use?
Absolutely go for fresh, tender spears! Look for firm, straight stalks without any dark spots or wilting. This ensures that your dish has the best flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover Baked Asparagus?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the asparagus completely before sealing to preserve its deliciousness and prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze Baked Asparagus?
Yes! You can freeze it for up to 2 months. First, let it cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

What can I do if my cheese burns while broiling?
If you notice that the cheese is browning too quickly, simply remove the dish from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will allow the cheese to melt without burning while your asparagus continues to heat through.

Is this Baked Asparagus safe for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re opting for that crunchy topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish a perfect option for anyone avoiding gluten.

What seasoning alternatives can I use?
Feel free to mix things up! You can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. These adjustments can give your Baked Asparagus Hollandaise Gratin a unique twist!