Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2.5 pounds asparagus (woody ends trimmed)
- 8 cloves garlic (slivered)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Dairy
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare asparagus: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Transfer the trimmed asparagus to an oval 9″x13″ baking dish. Sprinkle the slivered garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and fresh thyme evenly over the asparagus. Gently toss the spears to distribute the garlic and seasonings throughout.
- Add cream and cheese: Drizzle the heavy cream over the seasoned asparagus. Evenly sprinkle the freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Carefully shuffle the asparagus to allow some cheese to settle among the lower layers for an even cheesy coating.
- Bake the gratin: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the cheese has fully melted, creating a creamy texture.
- Broil for a golden crust: Switch the oven setting to broil. Broil the asparagus gratin for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, adding a delicious crisp topping. Remove from the oven and let cool for 1 minute before serving. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus before cooking to ensure tenderness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes baking + 2 minutes broiling
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
