Grilled Asparagus in Foil

Name: Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
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

a plate of asparagus topped with melted mozzarella cheese

Grilled Asparagus in Foil is a simple and quick side dish featuring fresh asparagus, zesty lemon, and melted cheese, ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues, this recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare.

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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
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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.

Ingredients For Grilled Asparagus in Foil

Grilled Asparagus In Foil raw ingredients that are labeled

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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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

How long to cook asparagus on the grill?

It takes about 10 minutes to prep your asparagus foil packets, and then about 15 minutes to cook them on the grill.

What’s the best way to cook asparagus 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.

What main dishes pair well with this asparagus recipe?

This asparagus pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or a creamy pasta dish.

Can I omit the red pepper flakes if I don’t like spice?

Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have lemon juice?

Lime juice or white wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice.

Is it possible to grill the asparagus directly on the grill without foil?

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.

How do I know when the asparagus is done cooking?

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

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