August 26, 2024
Review RecipeGrilled Asparagus in Foil
![a plate of asparagus topped with melted mozzarella cheese](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Recipe-Card-268x268.jpg)
Table of Contents
- Ingredients For Grilled Asparagus in Foil
- Substitutions and Additions for BBQ Asparagus in Foil
- How To Make This Grilled Asparagus in Foil Recipe
- Troubleshooting
- How To Serve Grilled Asparagus Foil Packets
- How To Store BBQ Asparagus
- Why These Grilled Asparagus Foil Packets Are The Best
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Veggie Recipes Your Family Will Love
- JUMP TO RECIPE
- Even More Recipes You’ll Love
Grilled Asparagus in Foil combines the fresh taste of asparagus with the zesty punch of lemon and garlic, all topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. We’ve created an easy-to-make side dish recipe that cooks on the grill in just 25 minutes.
At Spaceships and Laser Beams, we’re committed to creating reliable recipes that anyone can make in their home kitchen. You’ll find detailed instructions, practical tips, and helpful photos along the way.
For more than a decade, our readers have relied on us to create tasty side dish recipes their families will be excited to eat, like this cheesy asparagus. You can feel confident knowing this recipe has been tested to be delicious and look as impressive as our photos.
![a plate of asparagus topped with melted mozzarella cheese](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Hero1.jpg)
Ingredients For Grilled Asparagus in Foil
![Grilled Asparagus In Foil raw ingredients that are labeled](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Ingredients.jpg)
Grilled Asparagus in Foil is perfect for almost any meal. Fresh, flavorful ingredients result in a veggie dish that’s easy for anyone – even picky eaters – to enjoy.
You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons grated garlic
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 pound fresh asparagus stalks, woody ends trimmed
- 8-ounce block mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 teaspoons grated parmesan cheese
Substitutions and Additions for BBQ Asparagus in Foil
Olive Oil: If you don’t have extra virgin olive oil, you can use avocado oil or melted butter.
Garlic: If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or an equivalent amount of jarred garlic.
Lemon: You can use lime juice and zest as a substitute, or omit the lemon altogether for a more savory flavor.
Parsley Flakes: Fresh parsley can be used instead of dried. Just chop finely and use about a tablespoon.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you want a milder heat, use smoked paprika or omit the flakes entirely.
Mozzarella Cheese: Substitute with cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese if you need a lactose-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or a plant-based parmesan can be used as substitutes.
How To Make This Grilled Asparagus in Foil Recipe
Cooking asparagus on the grill is an easy process that results in a deliciously cheesy side dish. Follow along with our clear instruction and photos, and your asparagus foil packets will be ready in no time.
STEP ONE: Preheat your gas grill to 425°F. Tear off four pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12×12 inches. Lightly spray the center of each piece with non-stick spray or lightly brush with olive oil. This prevents the asparagus and cheese from sticking. Set aside.
PRO TIP: You can use your oven to make this recipe if you choose. Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare the asparagus as directed. We’ll provide oven directions throughout the post.
STEP TWO: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, grated garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, dried parsley flakes, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. This mixture will coat the asparagus, adding flavor and helping it cook evenly.
![extra virgin olive oil, grated garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, dried parsley flakes, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes combined in a bowl](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Step1.jpg)
STEP THREE: Place the trimmed asparagus spears in a large baking dish or bowl. Pour the seasoned oil mixture over the asparagus. Toss the asparagus gently to ensure all spears are evenly coated.
![seasoned oil mixture poured over the asparagus in a baking dish](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Step2.jpg)
STEP FOUR: Divide the seasoned asparagus spears into four equal portions (about five to seven spears per portion). Place each portion in the center of a prepared sheet of aluminum foil.
Pull up the long sides of the foil and fold them over at the top to seal, then fold the short sides to close the packets. Don’t seal the foil too tightly, as you’ll need to open them later to add cheese.
![asparagus wrapped in foil](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Step3.jpg)
STEP FIVE: Place the foil packets directly on the preheated grill. Cook the asparagus for 7 minutes. This initial cooking softens the asparagus and infuses it with the seasoned oil.
PRO TIP: If you’re baking the asparagus in the oven, place the foil packs on a large baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes.
STEP SIX: Carefully open each foil pack (be cautious of the hot steam) and add a heaping ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to each pack. The cheese will melt over the asparagus, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor.
STEP SEVEN: Close the foil packs again and continue cooking for another 7-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the asparagus is tender. This step ensures the cheese is perfectly melted without overcooking the asparagus.
![asparagus topped with shredded mozzarella cheese and wrapped in foil](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Step4.jpg)
STEP EIGHT: Use tongs to remove the foil packets from the grill.
STEP NINE: Open each foil pack and sprinkle a teaspoon of grated parmesan cheese over each serving of asparagus. This adds a final touch of salty, nutty flavor. Serve while hot.
![grated parmesan cheese sprinkled over the asparagus on a baking sheet](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Step5.jpg)
Troubleshooting
Making foil packets is a great way to cook vegetables. In case you still have some questions about how to make this easy side dish, our recipe testers compiled even more tips and tricks:
- If you don’t have heavy duty foil, you can use two to three layers of regular foil instead.
- We used a medium-sized stalks of asparagus. If you have thick stalks, you may need to increase the cook time. Thin stalks may require less time.
- It’s helpful if all of your stalks are similar in size. It’s an easy way to make sure they all cook evenly.
- To determine where to trim your asparagus spears, you will want to gently bend one fresh asparagus spear from the bunch. Where the asparagus spear naturally snaps, that is where the woodsy portion ends.
- For an easy way to cut your spears of asparagus to a uniform length, line up the top of the asparagus spears in an even layer, then use a sharp knife to cut the ends of asparagus away. Make sure you remove the woody tough part of the stalks, which are more common on thick asparagus spears.
- The best way to check for doneness is to use a fork. The fork should be able to pierce through the asparagus spears easily, but the asparagus should not be mushy.
How To Serve Grilled Asparagus Foil Packets
We love this grilled foil method for making tender asparagus. Whether you’re enjoying an outdoor BBQ or a a casual night in, these asparagus packets will be a welcomed addition to your dinner.
You can serve your asparagus straight from the foil packets. Just place them on a serving platter, or even directly onto each plate. This simple grilled asparagus recipe is perfect alongside grilled chicken or salmon. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and lemon slices for color.
Serve this delicious side dish with just about any main course. Serve with fried pork chops, roast beef, or even a ground beef hash.
It complements other side dishes well, such as baked beans, grilled pineapple, or mac and cheese.
Serve this dish at your next backyard party, casual dinner with friends, or even a holiday dinner! It’s easy to double or even triple, so there’s plenty for everyone.
MORE VEGETABLE RECIPES
How To Store BBQ Asparagus
Here’s how to prepare to barbecue asparagus ahead of time, and how to store any leftovers.
MAKE AHEAD: You can prepare the asparagus foil packs up to 4 hours in advance. Assemble the foil packets with the seasoned asparagus, but do not add the cheese. Keep the foil packs in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. When ready, just follow the cooking instructions.
IN THE FRIDGE: Your asparagus is best served hot and fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them for later. Allow the asparagus to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
IN THE FREEZER: We don’t recommend freezing your grilled asparagus. It won’t thaw well.
HOW TO REHEAT: To reheat the asparagus, preheat your oven to 350°F, place the asparagus on a baking sheet, and warm for about ten minutes or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for one to two minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
Why These Grilled Asparagus Foil Packets Are The Best
We know you’ll love this tasty grilled asparagus recipe.
Easy to Make: No complicated techniques, just the easiest way to make a great side dish.
Fresh and Flavorful: The zesty lemon and garlic marinade brings out the best flavor in the asparagus.
Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella and parmesan add a rich, creamy texture that’s irresistible.
Quick Cleanup: Cooking in foil packets means less mess and an easier cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
It takes about 10 minutes to prep your asparagus foil packets, and then about 15 minutes to cook them on the grill.
If you want to know how to cook asparagus on a grill, this post teaches you the foil packet method. It lets you season your asparagus and even add plenty of cheese, all while keeping your kitchen cool, and using your outdoor grill.
This asparagus pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or a creamy pasta dish.
Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
Lime juice or white wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice.
Yes, but the foil helps retain moisture and flavor. If grilling directly, watch closely to prevent burning, and either skip the cheese or add it once the asparagus is done and melt it in the oven.
The asparagus should be tender but still have a slight crunch. You can test it with a fork.
Quick and easy, this cheesy grilled asparagus in foil recipe provides you with an easy way to feed your family nutritious veggies that are absolutely delicious.
![asparagus topped with melted mozzarella cheese in foil](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Hero2.jpg)
Veggie Recipes Your Family Will Love
- Candied Carrots
- Air Fryer Broccoli
- Roasted Vegetables
- Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
- Simple Sauteed Vegetables
![a plate of asparagus topped with melted mozzarella cheese](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Grilled-Asparagus-In-Foil-Recipe-Card-268x268.jpg)
Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
- 2 teaspoons grated garlic
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 pound fresh asparagus stalks, woody ends trimmed
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 teaspoons grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven or gas grill to 425°F. Tear off 4 pieces of heavy duty aluminum foil approximately 12×12 inches each. Lightly spray the center of each large piece of aluminum foil with non-stick spray, or lightly brush with olive oil. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, grated garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, dried parsley flakes, black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.
- To a baking dish or large mixing bowl, add the trimmed asparagus spears and the seasoned oil mixture. Toss to coat all the asparagus in the seasoned oil mixture.
- Divide the seasoned asparagus spears into four equal portions. Place a single portion (approximately 5-7 spears depending on their size) into the center of a single prepared piece of aluminum foil. Pull up the long sides of the foil and fold over at the top to seal, then close up the short sides to create a foil pouch. Be careful not to close the packets tightly, as you will need to be able to easily open them to add the cheese. Repeat until all the foil packets are assembled.
- If baking, place the asparagus foil packs onto a large baking sheet, then place into the oven. If grilling, you can place the foil packets of asparagus on the barbecue, directly on the grill grates.
- Cook the asparagus for 7 minutes, then carefully open each of the foil packets (steam will be released). Add a quarter (a heaping ½ cup) of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the asparagus, then close each of the asparagus spear foil packs. Finish cooking for 7-8 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the asparagus is tender.
- Use tongs to remove the foil packets from the grill, or remove the baking tray from the oven.
- Open each of the asparagus foil packs and sprinkle a teaspoon of grated parmesan cheese over each of the asparagus servings.
Notes
- If you don’t have heavy duty foil, you can use two to three layers of regular foil instead.
- We used a medium-sized stalks of asparagus. If you have thick stalks, you may need to increase the cook time. Thin stalks may require less time.
- It’s helpful if all of your stalks are similar in size. It’s an easy way to make sure they all cook evenly.
- To determine where to trim your asparagus spears, you will want to gently bend one fresh asparagus spear from the bunch. Where the asparagus spear naturally snaps, that is where the woodsy portion ends.
- For an easy way to cut your spears of asparagus to a uniform length, line up the top of the asparagus spears in an even layer, then use a sharp knife to cut the ends of asparagus away. Make sure you remove the woody tough part of the stalks, which are more common on thick asparagus spears.
- The best way to check for doneness is to use a fork. The fork should be able to pierce through the asparagus spears easily, but the asparagus should not be mushy.
Nutrition
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