These Ultimate Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are my go-to when I crave something savory, crunchy, and just a bit cheesy. Fresh asparagus spears are coated in a crisp Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then baked until golden perfection. They’re simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making them a perfect appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- I can whip it up in under 30 minutes.
- It turns a simple veggie into a crave-worthy treat.
- I use pantry staples I already have on hand.
- It’s a lighter alternative to fried snacks without losing that crunch.
- Everyone—kids and adults—enjoys them, even those who usually skip the greens.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
- all-purpose flour
- large eggs, beaten
- panko breadcrumbs
- grated Parmesan cheese
- garlic powder
- salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
- I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- I place flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and mix the panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Each asparagus spear gets dredged in flour, dipped in egg, then coated in the breadcrumb mix.
- I line them up on the baking sheet and give them a light spray of oil or a drizzle of olive oil.
- I bake them for 10–12 minutes, until crisp and golden.
- I serve them warm right out of the oven for the best crunch.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 27 minutes
Variations
- I swap in gluten-free panko and flour when needed.
- I add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix for a little heat.
- I mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for a different flavor.
- I throw in dried herbs like oregano or thyme for more depth.
Storage/Reheating
- I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, I place them in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
FAQs
How do I make sure they turn out crispy?
I make sure to use Panko breadcrumbs and a light coating of oil. Baking them on a parchment-lined sheet helps them crisp up evenly.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes, I coat the asparagus earlier in the day and keep them refrigerated. I bake them fresh when I’m ready to serve.
What sauces go well with these?
I like to dip them in garlic aioli, ranch, marinara, or even just a squeeze of lemon juice.
Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
Absolutely. I’ve swapped in gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour, and the result is still delicious and crispy.
How do I avoid soggy asparagus sticks?
I make sure they’re spaced out on the baking sheet and serve them right after baking.
Conclusion
I love how these crispy Parmesan asparagus sticks take a humble veggie and turn it into something totally addictive. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or just want a fun side dish, this recipe always delivers flavor, crunch, and a whole lot of satisfaction.
Print
Ultimate Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Ultimate Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are a savory, cheesy, and crunchy treat made by coating fresh asparagus in a Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then baking to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Dredge each asparagus spear in flour, dip in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange coated asparagus on the baking sheet and lightly spray with oil or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use gluten-free panko and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Mix in mozzarella for a cheese blend.
- Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg