Pizza-Flavored Oven Baked Asparagus

This Pizza-Flavored Oven Baked Asparagus is the easiest way to satisfy your pizza craving with zero guilt! Baked in less than 20 minutes, it’s a fun appetizer or side dish that will have even the pickiest eaters excited to eat their veggies. 

What Is Pizza-Flavored Oven Baked Asparagus? 

A unique creation, this recipe takes plain oven baked asparagus and dresses it up with pizza toppings. It might sound strange, but don’t knock it ‘til ya try it! 

A fun way to enjoy veggies, it has quickly become one of our go-to side dishes. Plus, it’s so tasty, even the kids will eat it. 

But those aren’t the only reasons why we love it, this recipe is also: 

• Quick to prep and ready in minutes. 
• Full of vitamins, nutrients, and fiber. 
• Customizable with all your favorite pizza toppings. 
• Family-friendly, with four servings per batch. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s no need to spend time kneading dough or waiting for your crust to bake. This oven baked asparagus uses just a handful of ingredients for bold pizza flavor with items you likely have on hand. 

• Asparagus – Fresh, bright spears form the base of this dish acting as a “crust”. 
• Spices – Paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano create an authentic pizza taste. Pre-made Italian seasoning can be substituted if preferred. 
• Olive Oil – Used to coat the asparagus, helping the spices stick and allowing the spears to become tender in the oven. 
• Mozzarella Cheese – If possible, use freshly grated Mozzarella cheese for the best taste and gooiest texture. 
• Pepperoni – We use turkey pepperoni for our “pizza” topping of choice!

Flavor Variations

We’re partial to pepperoni, but any pizza toppings you like best can be used! Some great additional options include: 

• Ham or Canadian Bacon 
• Shredded Chicken
• Ground Beef
• Extra Cheese 
• Olives
• Vegetables (green onions, sliced onions, mushrooms, etc.) 
• Pineapple 

How to Trim Asparagus

We highly recommend trimming the woody ends of the asparagus to help ensure they cook evenly and are tender once removed from the oven. To do so: 

1. Wash the spears. 
2. Line the asparagus up evenly on a cutting board. 
3. Use a sharp knife to slice off the thick ends where they turn from white to green. 

*Note: Trim with a knife, don’t bend or snap your asparagus! This often leaves lots of edible parts to go to waste. 

How to Make Oven Baked Asparagus

As mentioned, this recipe is simple to prepare, but it’s also a breeze to clean up! There’s just so much to love. 

1. Prepare the Asparagus. Trim the asparagus, and arrange the spears in a single layer on a greased baking sheet. 
2. Season. Combine the spices in a small bowl. Then, drizzle the oil over the asparagus, sprinkle the spice mixture on top, and toss to coat the asparagus spears. 
3. Bake. Transfer the asparagus to the oven, and bake until tender.
4. Top. Add the Mozzarella cheese and your toppings of choice, and return the baking sheet to the oven just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be careful not to let it burn! 
5. Enjoy! Let the dish cool just slightly, slice, and serve warm. 

Tips for Success

• Use Asparagus Spears that are Equal in Size. Try to find an asparagus bunch that has spears that are nearly equal in length and width. This will allow for more even cooking. 
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan. You want the spears to be touching but not overlapping.
• Check for Doneness. Use a fork to ensure the asparagus is tender. 
• Don’t Overbake. Remove the baking pan from the oven as soon as the veggies are tender, and again when the cheese is lightly browned. Continuing to cook will turn the asparagus to mush and result in an unpleasant burnt top. 

Serving Suggestions

This pizza-flavored oven baked asparagus makes for a fun addition to all your favorite main courses. Some of our favorite pairings include: 

• Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Potatoes 
• Coconut Chicken Tenders
• Beef Kofta Meatballs 
• Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Meatballs 

How to Store

This recipe is best enjoyed right away. However, if you have leftovers, they can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to four days. 

To reheat, place them back on a parchment paper-lined baking dish, and warm them in the oven and 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the spears are heated through. 

Common Questions About This Oven Baked Asparagus Recipe

More Pizza-Inspired Recipes

Looking for more ways to enjoy the flavor of pizza without ordering takeout? Try out the pizza-inspired recipes below! 

• One Pot Pizza Pasta
• Pepperoni Pizza Braid
• Easy Spaghetti Pizza Bake
• Pizza Baked Chicken