Pin it
Crunchy Parmesan Asparagus Everyone Will Love
These Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are my absolute favorite way to get my picky eaters to eat their veggies. The combination of crunchy coating and tender asparagus inside just works magic. I started making these years ago when I was trying to jazz up our usual side dishes and now my family begs for them weekly. The golden Parmesan crust gets so perfectly crispy in the oven and takes just minutes to make. I love serving these at dinner parties too because they look fancy but are actually super easy. Sometimes I make extra just so I can snack on them cold from the fridge the next day.
Your New Favorite Side Dish
You won't believe how something so simple can taste this amazing. The crispy coating of Panko and Parmesan creates the most incredible crunch while the asparagus stays perfectly tender inside. I love making these when I want to dress up our regular dinner routine or need a quick appetizer that looks impressive. They disappear so fast I usually make a double batch.
Pin it
Shopping List
- Asparagus: Pick fresh bright green spears that aren't too thick
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup these make everything extra crispy
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup freshly grated tastes so much better
- Eggs: 2 large ones for the perfect coating
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp gives amazing flavor
- Salt and Pepper: Just enough to make the flavors pop
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp helps everything get golden brown
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I choose good asparagus?
Look for bright green spears with firm, compact tips. Avoid asparagus that looks woody or has limp stalks. Thinner spears are usually more tender than thick ones.
- → Why do I need to trim the asparagus?
The bottom ends of asparagus are tough and woody. Snap off the ends where they naturally break, or cut about an inch from the bottom for tender results.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
These are best served fresh and hot from the oven. The coating can get soggy if made too far in advance. You can prep the coating mixtures ahead of time though.
- → How do I store leftover asparagus sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp them up again, not in the microwave.
- → Can I use different cheese?
While Parmesan works best for its salty flavor and ability to crisp up, you can try other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago for variation.