Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks

Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy asparagus coated in Parmesan cheese for a delightful snack or side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks bring together the satisfying crunch of golden panko breadcrumbs with the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan cheese. The subtle sweetness of fresh asparagus contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of garlic powder and the saltiness of the cheese. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they are simple to make, so you can enjoy this delicious treat in no time.

Ingredients

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

• Fresh asparagus spears, trimmed

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs, beaten

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Garlic powder

• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add flour. In the second, add the beaten eggs. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.

3. Dip each asparagus spear into the flour, coating it evenly. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

4. Arrange the coated asparagus sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the breading is golden and crispy.

6. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. It takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, for a total of around 25-30 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

• Cheese variation: Swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a blend of your favorite hard cheeses for a unique twist.

• Herbs: Add some dried or fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture to infuse the asparagus with extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Let the asparagus sticks cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
To reheat: The best way to reheat these is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, to help retain their crispiness. You can also use an air fryer to reheat them.

FAQs

How do I know when the asparagus is done?

The asparagus will be tender when pierced with a fork, and the breading should be golden brown and crispy.

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat dry before coating.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While these are best fresh, you can prep the asparagus sticks in advance, then store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I bake the asparagus at a different temperature?

It’s best to bake at 400°F for a crispy texture, but you can adjust the temperature slightly. Just keep an eye on the asparagus so it doesn’t burn or get too soggy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Yes! You can use the same breading method for other vegetables like zucchini or green beans.

Can I deep fry these asparagus sticks instead of baking them?

Yes, you can deep fry them in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Ensure that each asparagus spear is coated in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture thoroughly. Pressing the breadcrumbs gently into the asparagus will help them stick better.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of grated Parmesan?

Shredded cheese can be used, but it might not adhere as well as grated Parmesan, which has a finer texture.

How do I make the asparagus crispy if I don’t have an oven?

You can try air frying the asparagus at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes for a similar crispy result.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are an irresistible treat that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a tasty side dish, this recipe delivers the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy goodness. With endless ways to customize it, you can enjoy this recipe again and again!