Description
Cheesy Rotel Asparagus is a flavorful and easy-to-make baked side dish featuring fresh asparagus topped with a zesty mixture of mayonnaise, taco seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies. Perfectly baked to meld the savory and slightly spicy flavors, this dish is a delightful addition to any meal and ready in under half an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1½ pounds fresh asparagus (trimmed)
Other Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning (or to taste)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC), ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the asparagus evenly.
- Prepare Asparagus: Place the trimmed fresh asparagus spears in a lightly greased 9x13x2-inch baking dish arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and taco seasoning thoroughly to create a flavorful spread that will coat the asparagus.
- Assemble Dish: Spread the seasoned mayonnaise mixture evenly over the asparagus. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese followed by the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies on top, distributing them evenly for balanced flavor.
- Bake: Bake the assembled dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your preferred spice level.
- If fresh asparagus is unavailable, you can use frozen, but ensure it is thawed and well-drained before baking.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute mayonnaise with a light or avocado-based mayonnaise alternative.
- To add extra texture, consider sprinkling some crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as part of a vegetable medley.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
