Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus

This savory garlic butter roasted asparagus makes for a quick, easy and healthy side dish. Fresh asparagus spears are lightly coated in melted butter, minced garlic, and savory seasonings, then roasted in the oven until perfectly tender. The garlic butter complements the crisp-tender asparagus beautifully. Read on for pro tips on selecting, prepping, and cooking asparagus.

Benefits of Roasted Asparagus

Roasting asparagus has many advantages as a cooking method:

Intensifies Flavor

Dry heat concentrates the vegetable’s natural flavors.

Caramelized Bits

Seared browned edges from high heat add texture.

Doesn’t Sacrifice Nutrition

Short cooking time preserves nutrients.

Easy Cleanup

All cooking mess is contained on a sheet pan.

Hands-off Cooking

Just toss and roast without having to stir or watch closely.

Tips for Selecting Fresh Asparagus

Look for asparagus with these qualities:

Tightly Closed Tips

Avoid open, spreading tips which indicate aging.

Upright Stalks

Sturdy, vertical spears without bending or drooping.

Compact Florets

Closed, compact tips on stalks indicate freshness.

Smooth Stalks

Spears should be straight and unwrinkled.

Bright Green Color

Vibrant green with purple tints is optimal.

Prepping Asparagus for Roasting

Prep asparagus spears for the oven:

1. Wash and Dry

Gently wash spears, then dry thoroughly. Wet asparagus won't roast well.

2. Snap Off Woody Ends

Bend the stalk to snap off the tough bottom portion.

3. Leave Whole or Cut

Use mini asparagus whole. Cut larger stalks in half or on diagonal.

4. Toss with Oil and Seasonings

Coat asparagus in oil, salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, etc.

5. Spread on Sheet Pan

Arrange in a single layer for even roasting.

Tips for Roasting Perfect Asparagus

Follow these guidelines for tender, caramelized spears:

Get the Oven Hot

High heat of 425-450°F ensures caramelization.

Rotate Halfway Through

Flip asparagus so both sides brown evenly.

Spray with Oil

Lightly coating asparagus allows the seasonings to stick.

Pull When Tender

Roasted until still crisp, about 8-12 minutes total.

Let Rest Briefly

Letting spears rest redistributes moisture perfectly.

Delicious Roasted Asparagus Recipes

Flavor roasted asparagus with:

Lemon Garlic Asparagus

Minced garlic, lemon zest, Parmesan.

Soy Ginger Asparagus

Toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger.

Asparagus with Mustard Breadcrumbs

Dijon mustard, panko, parsley.

Balsamic Roasted Asparagus

Good quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Crispy Bacon Asparagus

Crisp bacon sprinkled over roasted spears.

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Asparagus

Serve roasted asparagus spears with:

Lemon Wedges

Brightens up the flavor.

Shaved Parmesan

Adds salty, nutty flavor.

Dried Chili Flakes

Adds a hint of heat.

Dipping Sauces

Ranch, aioli, hollandaise for dipping.

Roast Up Restaurant Worthy Asparagus at Home

With its caramelized flavor and crispy seared bits, this garlic butter roasted asparagus is sure to be a hit at any meal. The savory roasted spears pair perfectly with fish, chicken, beef, and more. Toss them together in a flash and enjoy ‘fancy’ restaurant sides from the comfort of home!

5 FAQs about Roasted Asparagus

1. What temperature is best for roasting asparagus?

425°-450°F gives you tender, caramelized asparagus spears.

2. How long do you cook asparagus in the oven?

8-10 minutes usually does the trick. Thicker stalks take 10-15 minutes.

3. Should you wrap the ends of asparagus in foil?

You can, to prevent them from burning, but leaving them exposed gives more caramelized flavor.

4. What oil is best for roasting asparagus?

Olive oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil all work well.

5. How do you roast asparagus without it getting soggy?

Dry spears thoroughly, don't overcrowd the pan, and let cool before storing after roasting.