Oh my goodness, have you ever tried cheesy baked asparagus with beef? It’s like a flavor explosion that makes your taste buds dance! I remember the first time I whipped this dish up for a casual dinner with friends; the savory aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. The combination of tender asparagus topped with seasoned ground beef and gooey cheddar cheese is just heavenly. It’s a perfect mix of healthy and indulgent, making it a go-to in my cooking repertoire. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this comforting dish is a hit at our family gatherings. So, let’s dive into how you can create this scrumptious meal in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Beef
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and ready to go
- 1 pound ground beef, seasoned just right
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, because we want it cheesy!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for that lovely sauté
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
- 1 teaspoon salt, to bring out all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, for a little kick
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika, adding that subtle warmth
How to Prepare Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Beef
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your cheesy baked asparagus gets that perfect golden brown finish. While it’s heating up, you can get everything else prepped—talk about multitasking!
Cook the Beef Mixture
Now, grab a skillet and heat up that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute—oh, the smell is divine! Then, toss in the ground beef. You’ll want to cook it until it’s browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and paprika while it cooks. This adds that extra layer of flavor that makes the dish pop!
Assemble the Dish
Once your beef mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble! Arrange the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet—make sure they’re spread out evenly so they get that lovely roast. Next, spread the cooked beef mixture over the asparagus, making sure to cover every speck. Finally, sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Trust me, the more cheese, the better!
Bake the Dish
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating that irresistible, ooey-gooey topping. Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. You’ll want to savor every cheesy, meaty bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Savory flavor that combines the richness of beef with the freshness of asparagus.
- Healthy option packed with protein and veggies, perfect for a balanced meal.
- Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
- Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or cheese varieties.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cheesy baked asparagus with beef turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the Right Asparagus: When picking asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with closed tips. Thinner stalks tend to be more tender and flavorful!
- Ground Beef Alternatives: If you want a lighter dish, feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
- Mix It Up: Want to add more flavor? Try mixing in some chopped onions or bell peppers with the beef. They’ll add a nice crunch and sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
- Cheese Variety: While I adore cheddar cheese, you can experiment with different types! Try mozzarella for a gooey texture or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharp finish.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes. Overcooking can lead to tough asparagus and dried-out beef. You want that perfect balance of tender and juicy!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before digging in. This allows the flavors to meld together even more and makes serving easier.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a delicious cheesy baked asparagus with beef that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this cheesy baked asparagus with beef! Each serving is packed with flavor and a nice balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, knowing you’re enjoying a delicious dish that’s also nutritious? That’s a win-win in my book!
FAQ About Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Beef
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the dish, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it!
What can I substitute for asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for green beans or broccoli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetable you choose.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Trust me, it’s still delicious the next day!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! While I love cheddar, you can use mozzarella for that stretchy goodness or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Experiment with what you love!
What should I serve with this dish?
This cheesy baked asparagus with beef pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some roasted potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious cheesy baked asparagus with beef ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your meal even more! Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the flavors beautifully:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the dish. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances everything out!
- Roasted Potatoes: Try serving it with some garlic and herb roasted potatoes. Their crispy edges and fluffy interiors make for a comforting side that goes hand-in-hand with the cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s fantastic for soaking up any leftover cheese and beef juices, making every bite satisfying.
- Steamed Broccoli: For an extra boost of veggies, lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and a healthful touch. Plus, it pairs nicely with the flavors of the dish!
- Quinoa or Rice: A side of fluffy quinoa or brown rice can round out your meal nicely. They soak up flavors well and add a nutty element that complements the beef and asparagus.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Trust me, these pairings will take your cheesy baked asparagus with beef from delicious to absolutely unforgettable!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog or explore healthy cheesecake options. If you’re interested in more savory dishes, consider trying cheesy baked chicken and peppers!
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Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Beef: 5 Irresistible Tips
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A savory dish of cheesy baked asparagus topped with seasoned beef.
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Arrange asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Serve warm for best flavor.
- Can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheesy baked asparagus, beef, baked asparagus, cheesy beef dish