These crispy Parmesan asparagus sticks are my go-to when I want to turn a simple vegetable into a show-stopping side dish or appetizer. Coated in a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, they're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Whether I'm serving them as a holiday side, game-day snack, or healthy weeknight treat, they're always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Cheesy: The Parmesan coating adds a rich, savory crunch that pairs perfectly with tender asparagus.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthy & Delicious: A guilt-free way to enjoy my veggies without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs for a finer texture)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
Directions
- Preheat and Prep: I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Then, I trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears by snapping them or cutting them with a knife.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, I mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, I beat the egg.
- Coat the Asparagus: I dip each asparagus spear into the beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, I roll the spear in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly. I place the coated asparagus sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each spear.
- Bake Until Crispy: I lightly drizzle the asparagus sticks with olive oil (optional) to help them crisp up in the oven. Then, I bake them for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Mixing in dried herbs like thyme or oregano adds an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Swap: For a different flavor, I substitute Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
- Gluten-Free: Using gluten-free breadcrumbs makes this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, I place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to maintain their crispiness. I avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen asparagus?
I prefer using fresh asparagus for the best texture, but if I use frozen, I make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?
I love serving them with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or lemon aioli for added flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare and coat the asparagus sticks, then refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking.
How do I ensure the coating sticks well?
I make sure to pat the asparagus dry before coating and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto each spear.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! I air fry them at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden and crispy.
Conclusion
These crispy Parmesan asparagus sticks are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy vegetable with an irresistibly crunchy, cheesy twist. Quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is ideal for snacks, sides, or party appetizers. Whether I'm new to asparagus or a longtime fan, these sticks make cooking fun and flavorful. I give this recipe a try and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness that'll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a delicious, healthy side or snack made by coating fresh asparagus in a savory Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baking them to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
- In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg.
- Dip each asparagus spear into the beaten egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Place coated asparagus on the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender-crisp.
Notes
- Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
- Use dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Swap Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to keep crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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