Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs recipe

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

It’s funny how the simplest recipes are often the ones that become family favorites, isn’t it? Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is a prime example in my kitchen. I first tried this recipe years ago when I was looking for a way to make asparagus more exciting for my kids – who, let’s be honest, weren’t exactly thrilled about green vegetables at the time. I wanted something beyond just steaming or grilling, and this baked version, with its golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, turned out to be an absolute game-changer. The transformation of tender asparagus spears, coated in buttery, garlicky breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, is just magical. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s baking is simply irresistible. And the taste? Oh, the taste! The slight bitterness of the asparagus is beautifully balanced by the savory, crunchy breadcrumbs, and that hint of garlic and Parmesan just elevates it to another level. It’s now a dish that’s requested at every holiday meal and special occasion, and even my once-skeptical kids devour it. This Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect side dish for any weeknight dinner or elegant enough for a dinner party. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Ingredients for Perfect Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs

Creating truly exceptional Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs hinges on using quality ingredients and understanding how each component contributes to the final dish. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need, along with notes on substitutions and variations to personalize your recipe:

  • Asparagus: 1 pound (450g) of fresh asparagus, trimmed. Asparagus is, of course, the star of this dish! Opt for fresh, firm asparagus spears with tightly closed tips and a vibrant green color. Avoid asparagus that looks wilted, limp, or has tips that are starting to open or become mushy. The thickness of the asparagus spears can vary, and this will affect the cooking time. Thicker spears will take longer to become tender, while thinner spears will cook more quickly. You can adjust the baking time accordingly. For this recipe, medium-thick asparagus spears are ideal. When trimming asparagus, you can snap off the woody ends where they naturally break, or you can trim them with a knife, cutting off about the bottom inch or two of each spear. Proper trimming ensures you are only using the tender, edible parts of the asparagus.
  • Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of fresh breadcrumbs. Fresh breadcrumbs are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor in this recipe. They create a lighter, crispier, and more flavorful topping compared to dry breadcrumbs. To make fresh breadcrumbs, simply take a few slices of day-old bread (such as Italian bread, sourdough, or even white sandwich bread), remove the crusts if desired, and pulse them in a food processor until you have coarse crumbs. You can also grate the bread using a box grater. If you must use dry breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs are a good alternative as they provide a nice crispy texture. Italian seasoned breadcrumbs can also be used for added flavor, but be mindful of the seasoning already present and adjust the salt and garlic powder accordingly.
  • Butter: ¼ cup (½ stick or 57g) of unsalted butter, melted. Butter is essential for adding richness, flavor, and helping the breadcrumbs become golden brown and crispy. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the overall salt level of the dish. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but reduce the amount of added salt later in the recipe. For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can substitute with a good quality olive oil or vegan butter alternative. Olive oil will provide a different flavor profile, but it will still help crisp up the breadcrumbs. Vegan butter alternatives can work well, but be mindful of the flavor and salt content of the specific brand you choose.
  • Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and umami-rich flavor that complements the asparagus and breadcrumbs beautifully. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for the best flavor and melting quality. You can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese for convenience, but freshly grated cheese will have a more pronounced flavor. For a vegetarian version, ensure you are using a vegetarian Parmesan cheese, as traditional Parmesan is made with animal rennet. For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative, although these may not fully replicate the flavor of Parmesan. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled over the breadcrumbs for a slightly cheesy, umami flavor.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that enhances the savory notes of the breadcrumbs and asparagus. Freshly minced garlic is always best for the most intense flavor. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. For a milder garlic flavor, you can use just one clove, or for a more pronounced garlic taste, you can use up to three cloves. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic is highly recommended.
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note that balances the richness of the butter and cheese and enhances the natural flavor of the asparagus. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh juice will have a brighter, more vibrant taste. You can also add a little lemon zest for an even more intense lemon flavor.
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Salt is crucial for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients, especially the asparagus and breadcrumbs. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your preference, tasting as you go. Kosher salt or sea salt are preferred for their pure taste.
  • Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and aromatic spice that complements the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your liking. White pepper can also be used for a milder peppery flavor.
  • Optional Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle touch of heat to the dish. This is optional, but it can add a nice layer of complexity and interest, especially if you enjoy a little spice. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit them entirely if you prefer a non-spicy dish.

This detailed ingredient list ensures you have everything you need to create a flavorful and satisfying Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs. Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results, and feel free to adjust seasonings and cheese types to your personal preferences.

Instructions: Baking Asparagus with Breadcrumbs – Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs. Each step is designed to be clear and easy to follow, ensuring even beginner cooks can achieve delicious, crispy-topped asparagus.

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup much simpler. You can also use aluminum foil, but parchment paper is generally preferred for baking.
  2. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly under cold running water. Snap off or trim the woody ends of the asparagus. As mentioned earlier, you can snap them off where they naturally break, or trim about an inch or two from the bottom with a knife. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking and prevent them from becoming crispy. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer.
  3. Melt Butter and Combine Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan on the stovetop, melt the butter. Once melted, add the fresh breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Ensure the breadcrumbs are well coated with the butter mixture. This buttery, cheesy, garlicky breadcrumb mixture is what will create the delicious crispy topping for the asparagus.
  4. Top Asparagus with Breadcrumb Mixture: Evenly spoon or sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the asparagus spears on the baking sheet. Distribute the breadcrumbs as evenly as possible to ensure each asparagus spear gets a good coating of the topping. Gently press the breadcrumbs down slightly onto the asparagus to help them adhere during baking.
  5. Bake the Asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your asparagus spears and your oven. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes. The asparagus should be bright green and slightly tender, but still have a bit of snap. The breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overbake, as the asparagus can become mushy and the breadcrumbs can burn.
  6. Serve Immediately: Remove the Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs from the oven and serve immediately while it’s hot and the breadcrumbs are at their crispiest. Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite main course. Garnish with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired, for added freshness and visual appeal.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you through each step of creating perfect Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs, from preparing the asparagus and making the flavorful breadcrumb topping to baking it to golden brown, crispy perfection. Enjoy this simple yet elegant side dish!

Nutrition Facts: Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs – A Healthy Side

Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients, combining the health benefits of asparagus with the satisfying flavors of breadcrumbs, cheese, and butter. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient quantities, breadcrumb type, cheese type, and serving sizes.

Servings: 4-6 servings (as a side dish)

Estimated Calories per Serving (based on 6 servings): Approximately 180-250 calories per serving

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (based on estimates and standard ingredients, per serving of 6):

  • Calories: 180-250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12-18g
    • Saturated Fat: 7-10g (primarily from butter and Parmesan cheese)
    • Unsaturated Fat: 4-8g
  • Cholesterol: 30-50mg
  • Sodium: 300-400mg (can vary based on added salt and cheese type)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10-15g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3-5g (primarily from asparagus)
    • Sugars: 2-3g (naturally occurring in asparagus)
  • Protein: 5-8g

Key Nutritional Highlights:

  • Excellent Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, folate, and Vitamin E. It’s also a good source of fiber.
  • Good Source of Fiber: Asparagus contributes dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and satiety.
  • Moderate Protein: Parmesan cheese and to a lesser extent, asparagus and breadcrumbs, contribute to the protein content.
  • Source of Healthy Fats (Unsaturated): While it contains saturated fat from butter and cheese, there are also unsaturated fats present.
  • Relatively Low in Calories (for a cheesy, buttery side): Compared to many rich side dishes, Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is moderately calorie-controlled when served in appropriate portion sizes.

Important Considerations:

  • Fat Content: The fat content comes primarily from butter and Parmesan cheese. While butter and cheese add flavor and richness, they also contribute to the saturated fat content. If you are watching your fat intake, you can use less butter or reduced-fat cheese options, although this will affect the flavor and texture.
  • Sodium Content: Parmesan cheese and added salt contribute to the sodium content. If you are watching your sodium intake, use reduced-sodium Parmesan cheese or adjust the amount of added salt.
  • Carbohydrate Content (Breadcrumbs): The breadcrumbs contribute carbohydrates. Using whole wheat breadcrumbs or reducing the amount of breadcrumbs slightly can lower the carbohydrate content and increase fiber.
  • Customization for Healthier Options:
    • Olive Oil instead of Butter: Substitute olive oil for butter to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol, and increase healthy monounsaturated fats.
    • Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Use whole wheat bread to make your fresh breadcrumbs to increase fiber content.
    • Reduced-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat Parmesan cheese to lower the fat and calorie content.
    • Increase Asparagus, Reduce Breadcrumbs: Increase the proportion of asparagus to breadcrumbs to make it more vegetable-heavy and slightly lower in calories and carbohydrates.
    • Portion Control: Be mindful of serving sizes to manage calorie and fat intake.

Disclaimer: These nutritional facts are estimates for informational purposes only. For precise nutritional information, you should use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Consult with a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Baked Asparagus

Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is a wonderfully quick and easy side dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious vegetable dish in a hurry. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated times:

  • Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
    • This includes washing and trimming the asparagus.
    • Making fresh breadcrumbs (if using homemade).
    • Melting butter and combining breadcrumb mixture.
    • Mincing garlic, grating Parmesan cheese, and measuring out other ingredients.
    • Preheating the oven and preparing the baking sheet.
  • Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
    • Baking in the preheated oven until asparagus is tender-crisp and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  • Total Estimated Time: Approximately 27-35 minutes

Time-Saving Tips:

  • Pre-Washed Asparagus: Purchase pre-washed asparagus to save a few minutes on washing.
  • Pre-Grated Parmesan Cheese: Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese is convenient and saves a few minutes of prep time.
  • Dry Breadcrumbs (Panko): Using panko breadcrumbs instead of making fresh breadcrumbs eliminates the step of making homemade breadcrumbs and slightly reduces prep time.
  • Efficient Workflow: While the oven is preheating, prepare the breadcrumb mixture and trim the asparagus simultaneously to maximize efficiency.

Planning Ahead:

  • Morning Prep: You can make the fresh breadcrumbs in the morning or even a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also wash and trim the asparagus ahead of time and store it wrapped in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator.
  • Weeknight Dinner: Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is ideal for a weeknight dinner because it’s so quick to prepare and bake.
  • Last-Minute Side Dish: This is a great last-minute side dish option when you need to quickly add a vegetable to your meal.

Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is designed to be a fast and fuss-free side dish. With minimal prep and a short baking time, you can have a flavorful and elegant vegetable accompaniment ready in under 35 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you are short on time but still want a delicious and healthy side.

How to Serve Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs: Serving Suggestions

Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is a versatile and elegant side dish that can complement a wide range of main courses and be presented in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy it to its fullest:

  • As a Classic Side Dish:
    • Grilled or Roasted Meats: Serve Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs alongside grilled or roasted chicken, steak, pork chops, or lamb. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture contrast to tender meats.
    • Fish and Seafood: Pair it with baked, pan-seared, or grilled fish like salmon, cod, halibut, or shrimp. The lemon and Parmesan flavors in the asparagus complement seafood beautifully.
    • Pasta Dishes: Serve as a side to pasta dishes, especially creamy pasta dishes or those with lighter sauces. It provides a welcome vegetable element to balance the richness of pasta.
    • Vegetarian Mains: Accompany vegetarian main courses like lentil loaf, vegetarian burgers, or risotto with a serving of baked asparagus to add a flavorful and nutritious vegetable component.
  • Elevated Presentation:
    • Elegant Platter: Arrange the baked asparagus spears artfully on a platter for a more elegant presentation, especially for dinner parties or holiday meals. You can create a fanned-out arrangement or a neat stack.
    • Individual Portions: Serve individual portions of baked asparagus on small plates as a sophisticated starter or side dish.
    • Garnish: Garnish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, chives, or extra grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for added visual appeal and flavor.
  • Serving Temperature and Timing:
    • Serve Hot Immediately: Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is best served hot, right out of the oven. The breadcrumbs are at their crispiest, and the asparagus is perfectly tender-crisp.
    • Serve Alongside the Main Course: Time the baking of the asparagus so it is ready to serve at the same time as your main course for the best dining experience.
    • Reheating (Not Ideal): While leftovers can be reheated, the breadcrumbs may lose some of their crispness. If reheating, do so gently in a low oven or air fryer to try and crisp up the topping again. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the breadcrumbs soggy.
  • Sauce Pairings (Optional):
    • Hollandaise Sauce: For an extra decadent touch, serve with a side of hollandaise sauce or a lightened version of hollandaise. The creamy sauce complements the asparagus and breadcrumbs beautifully.
    • Lemon Aioli: A lemon aioli or garlic aioli can also be a delicious dipping sauce for the asparagus.
    • Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness and acidity that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the dish.
  • Serving Occasions:
    • Weeknight Dinners: Quick and easy enough for weeknight meals.
    • Weekend Brunches: A lovely addition to a weekend brunch spread.
    • Holiday Meals: Elegant and flavorful enough for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
    • Dinner Parties: Impressive yet simple to make for dinner parties and gatherings.
    • Potlucks and Cookouts: A great side dish to bring to potlucks or cookouts.

By considering these serving suggestions, you can present and enjoy your Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs in a variety of ways, making it a versatile and appreciated dish for any meal or occasion. Its simple elegance and delicious flavor make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs: Expert Advice

To ensure your Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is consistently perfect and delicious, here are five additional tips and expert advice to elevate your recipe:

  1. Choose Asparagus of Similar Thickness: For even cooking, try to select asparagus spears that are roughly the same thickness. This will ensure that all the spears become tender-crisp at the same time. If you have a mix of thick and thin spears, you can separate them and adjust the baking time accordingly. Thicker spears may need a couple of extra minutes, while thinner spears will cook more quickly. You can also place thinner spears towards the center of the baking sheet and thicker spears towards the edges, as the center tends to cook slightly hotter.
  2. Toast Fresh Breadcrumbs for Extra Flavor: While fresh breadcrumbs are already delicious, toasting them lightly before mixing them with the butter and seasonings can enhance their flavor even further. To toast breadcrumbs, spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Toasting brings out a nutty flavor and slightly crisper texture, which adds another layer of deliciousness to the breadcrumb topping.
  3. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: As mentioned earlier, avoid overcrowding the asparagus spears on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of baking, which will result in soggy asparagus and breadcrumbs instead of crispy, golden perfection. Ensure the asparagus spears are arranged in a single layer with a little space between them for air circulation. If necessary, use two baking sheets to bake the asparagus in batches to avoid overcrowding. Proper spacing is crucial for achieving that desirable tender-crisp texture and crispy topping.
  4. Adjust Baking Time Based on Asparagus Thickness: The recipe provides a baking time range of 12-15 minutes, but the exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your asparagus spears and your oven. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes. The asparagus should be bright green and slightly tender, but still have a bit of snap when you pierce it with a fork. The breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy. For thinner asparagus, it might be ready in 10-12 minutes. For thicker asparagus, it may need closer to 15-18 minutes. It’s always better to slightly underbake than overbake asparagus, as overcooked asparagus becomes mushy and loses its vibrant color and flavor.
  5. Add a Touch of Acidity – Lemon is Key: The fresh lemon juice in this recipe is not just for flavor; it also helps to brighten the dish and balance the richness of the butter and cheese. Don’t skip the lemon juice! You can also enhance the lemon flavor by adding a little lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture or squeezing extra lemon juice over the baked asparagus just before serving. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing element that elevates the overall taste of the Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs.

By incorporating these expert tips into your recipe, you’ll be able to create a consistently perfect and incredibly delicious Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs that will impress your family and guests every time! Enjoy perfecting this simple yet elegant side dish!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs

Here are 5 frequently asked questions about making Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs, along with detailed answers to help you troubleshoot and perfect your recipe:

Q1: Can I make Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs ahead of time?

A: While Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs is best enjoyed fresh and hot right out of the oven for optimal crispness, you can prepare certain components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. You can wash and trim the asparagus earlier in the day and store it wrapped in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator. You can also make the fresh breadcrumbs in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. You can even prepare the breadcrumb mixture (melted butter, breadcrumbs, cheese, seasonings) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it is not recommended to fully assemble and bake the asparagus too far in advance, as the breadcrumbs will lose their crispness as they sit. If you need to partially prepare it ahead, you can arrange the asparagus on the baking sheet and have the breadcrumb mixture ready, then assemble and bake just before serving. Reheating fully baked asparagus with breadcrumbs is not ideal, as the breadcrumbs can become soggy. If you do need to reheat leftovers, do so gently in a low oven or air fryer to try and crisp up the topping again.

Q2: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for this recipe?

A: Yes, absolutely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. There are many good quality gluten-free breadcrumb options available in grocery stores, including panko-style gluten-free breadcrumbs which will provide a nice crispy texture. You can also make your own gluten-free fresh breadcrumbs using gluten-free bread. Simply follow the same instructions for making fresh breadcrumbs using your favorite gluten-free bread. Ensure that all other ingredients you use are also gluten-free if you are making this for someone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, although most of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free (asparagus, butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper).

Q3: What are good alternatives to Parmesan cheese in this recipe?

A: While Parmesan cheese is classic and provides a wonderful salty, savory flavor, you can substitute it with other hard, grating cheeses or even different types of cheese for variations in flavor. Good alternatives to Parmesan cheese include:
Pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano cheese is a sheep’s milk cheese that is saltier and sharper than Parmesan. It will provide a bolder flavor.
Asiago Cheese: Asiago cheese is a nutty and slightly sweet cheese that melts well and will add a different flavor profile.
Grana Padano: Grana Padano is similar to Parmesan but slightly milder and less salty. It’s a good all-purpose substitute.
Nutritional Yeast (for Vegan Option): For a dairy-free and vegan option, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled over the breadcrumbs. It provides a somewhat cheesy, umami flavor, although it won’t replicate the texture of Parmesan.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to bake along with the asparagus?

A: Yes, you can certainly add other vegetables to bake along with the asparagus to create a more substantial side dish or a roasted vegetable medley. Vegetables that roast well alongside asparagus and complement the flavors include:
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and burst of flavor.
Bell Peppers (sliced): Sliced bell peppers (any color) add sweetness and a slight crunch.
Red Onion (sliced): Sliced red onion adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor when roasted.
Mushrooms (sliced): Sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake) add an earthy, umami flavor.
Broccoli Florets: Small broccoli florets roast well and add another green vegetable.
Zucchini (sliced): Sliced zucchini adds a mild flavor and tender texture.
When adding other vegetables, consider their cooking times and cut them into pieces that will cook at a similar rate to the asparagus. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the vegetables you add. Toss the additional vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the baking sheet with the asparagus and topping them with the breadcrumb mixture.

Q5: How do I store leftover Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs?

A: Leftover Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. Properly stored, it will last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that the breadcrumbs will lose their crispness as they sit and absorb moisture. To reheat, the best way to try and restore some crispness is to reheat the leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or in an air fryer for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the breadcrumbs soggy. Reheated asparagus will still be flavorful, but the texture of the breadcrumbs will not be quite as crispy as when freshly baked.

These FAQs and detailed answers should help you address common questions and potential issues when making Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs, ensuring you achieve delicious and successful results every time! Enjoy this simple and satisfying side dish!

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Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs recipe


  • Author: Caroline

Ingredients

    • Asparagus: 1 pound (450g) of fresh asparagus, trimmed. Asparagus is, of course, the star of this dish! Opt for fresh, firm asparagus spears with tightly closed tips and a vibrant green color. Avoid asparagus that looks wilted, limp, or has tips that are starting to open or become mushy. The thickness of the asparagus spears can vary, and this will affect the cooking time. Thicker spears will take longer to become tender, while thinner spears will cook more quickly. You can adjust the baking time accordingly. For this recipe, medium-thick asparagus spears are ideal. When trimming asparagus, you can snap off the woody ends where they naturally break, or you can trim them with a knife, cutting off about the bottom inch or two of each spear. Proper trimming ensures you are only using the tender, edible parts of the asparagus.

    • Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of fresh breadcrumbs. Fresh breadcrumbs are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor in this recipe. They create a lighter, crispier, and more flavorful topping compared to dry breadcrumbs. To make fresh breadcrumbs, simply take a few slices of day-old bread (such as Italian bread, sourdough, or even white sandwich bread), remove the crusts if desired, and pulse them in a food processor until you have coarse crumbs. You can also grate the bread using a box grater. If you must use dry breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs are a good alternative as they provide a nice crispy texture. Italian seasoned breadcrumbs can also be used for added flavor, but be mindful of the seasoning already present and adjust the salt and garlic powder accordingly.

    • Butter: ¼ cup (½ stick or 57g) of unsalted butter, melted. Butter is essential for adding richness, flavor, and helping the breadcrumbs become golden brown and crispy. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the overall salt level of the dish. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but reduce the amount of added salt later in the recipe. For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can substitute with a good quality olive oil or vegan butter alternative. Olive oil will provide a different flavor profile, but it will still help crisp up the breadcrumbs. Vegan butter alternatives can work well, but be mindful of the flavor and salt content of the specific brand you choose.

    • Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and umami-rich flavor that complements the asparagus and breadcrumbs beautifully. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for the best flavor and melting quality. You can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese for convenience, but freshly grated cheese will have a more pronounced flavor. For a vegetarian version, ensure you are using a vegetarian Parmesan cheese, as traditional Parmesan is made with animal rennet. For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative, although these may not fully replicate the flavor of Parmesan. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled over the breadcrumbs for a slightly cheesy, umami flavor.

    • Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that enhances the savory notes of the breadcrumbs and asparagus. Freshly minced garlic is always best for the most intense flavor. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. For a milder garlic flavor, you can use just one clove, or for a more pronounced garlic taste, you can use up to three cloves. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic is highly recommended.

    • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note that balances the richness of the butter and cheese and enhances the natural flavor of the asparagus. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh juice will have a brighter, more vibrant taste. You can also add a little lemon zest for an even more intense lemon flavor.

    • Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Salt is crucial for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients, especially the asparagus and breadcrumbs. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your preference, tasting as you go. Kosher salt or sea salt are preferred for their pure taste.

    • Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and aromatic spice that complements the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your liking. White pepper can also be used for a milder peppery flavor.

    • Optional Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional). Red pepper flakes add a subtle touch of heat to the dish. This is optional, but it can add a nice layer of complexity and interest, especially if you enjoy a little spice. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit them entirely if you prefer a non-spicy dish.


Instructions

    1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup much simpler. You can also use aluminum foil, but parchment paper is generally preferred for baking.

    1. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly under cold running water. Snap off or trim the woody ends of the asparagus. As mentioned earlier, you can snap them off where they naturally break, or trim about an inch or two from the bottom with a knife. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking and prevent them from becoming crispy. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer.

    1. Melt Butter and Combine Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan on the stovetop, melt the butter. Once melted, add the fresh breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Ensure the breadcrumbs are well coated with the butter mixture. This buttery, cheesy, garlicky breadcrumb mixture is what will create the delicious crispy topping for the asparagus.

    1. Top Asparagus with Breadcrumb Mixture: Evenly spoon or sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the asparagus spears on the baking sheet. Distribute the breadcrumbs as evenly as possible to ensure each asparagus spear gets a good coating of the topping. Gently press the breadcrumbs down slightly onto the asparagus to help them adhere during baking.

    1. Bake the Asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your asparagus spears and your oven. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes. The asparagus should be bright green and slightly tender, but still have a bit of snap. The breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overbake, as the asparagus can become mushy and the breadcrumbs can burn.

    1. Serve Immediately: Remove the Baked Asparagus with Breadcrumbs from the oven and serve immediately while it’s hot and the breadcrumbs are at their crispiest. Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite main course. Garnish with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired, for added freshness and visual appeal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories:  180-250
  • Sugar: 2-3g
  • Sodium: 300-400mg
  • Fat: 12-18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7-10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4-8g
  • Carbohydrates:  10-15g
  • Fiber: 3-5g
  • Protein: 5-8g
  • Cholesterol: 30-50mg