Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Asparagus is an incredibly simple yet satisfying dish. With just five main ingredients—fresh asparagus, cheese, beef, garlic, and olive oil—it offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The savory beef adds a rich flavor to the dish, while the cheese creates a gooey, indulgent layer that’s hard to resist. Plus, the recipe is perfect for keto and low-carb diets, making it both delicious and nutritious. Whether you serve it as a side or pair it with a main dish, it’s a crowd-pleasing option that’s ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or Parmesan, Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or low-moisture mozzarella)

• 4 ounces cooked beef, chopped into small pieces

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and arrange them in a medium-sized casserole dish.

3. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and top with minced garlic.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, uncovered, to soften the asparagus.

5. Remove from the oven, then top with shredded cheese and chopped beef.

6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese variations: You can substitute Gruyere with Parmesan, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for different flavors. Mozzarella also works well for a milder cheese.

• Add vegetables: Try mixing in other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and flavor.

• Herb flavors: Sprinkle fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary over the asparagus before baking for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Cheesy Baked Asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the asparagus in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use Parmesan, Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or shredded mozzarella as alternatives to Gruyere.

2. How do I know when the asparagus is done?

The asparagus should be tender yet still slightly crisp. If your stalks are thicker, you may need to bake them for a few extra minutes.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it for an extra few minutes when you're ready to serve.

4. Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Yes, this Cheesy Baked Asparagus is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a great choice for those following these diets.

5. Can I use raw beef instead of cooked beef?

It’s best to use cooked beef, as it adds the perfect flavor and texture to the dish. Pre-cook it before adding to the recipe.

6. What can I serve this with?

Cheesy Baked Asparagus pairs well with keto-friendly main dishes like chicken, steak, or seafood.

7. Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus works best for this recipe, as it holds its texture better when baked.

8. How can I adjust the flavor of this dish?

Feel free to add more garlic, cheese, or beef to suit your taste. You can also experiment with different herbs for added flavor.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing this dish is not recommended, as the texture of the asparagus and cheese may change when reheated.

10. Can I make this recipe without beef?

Yes, if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can skip the beef or replace it with sautéed mushrooms for a similar savory flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Beef is a delightful side dish that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender asparagus, gooey cheese, and savory beef creates a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!