Slow Cooker Asparagus is a delicious and easy side dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is made with fresh asparagus, garlic, parmesan, lemon, and olive oil, giving it a burst of flavor that will have your taste buds begging for more.
Plus, the crock pot is a great way to keep the asparagus warm for a holiday meal!
Next time try the Pan Roasted Vegetables. They are simple and so tasty!
Jump to:
Why you'll love this recipe
Crispy, crunchy asparagus that takes, little to no effort to make! That's why I love it. This is an easy recipe that you can set and forget while you focus on your main dish.
What's not to love about that?
Ingredients
Please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for the exact measurements.
Instructions
This is an overview of the instructions. For complete directions, scroll down to the bottom.
- Clean the asparagus, trim the tough ends. Place in the slow cooker.
- Mince the garlic, then mix with olive oil. Drizzle over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine. Top with parmesan cheese and dot with butter.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the asparagus is tender.
Hey, if you want to catch all my videos, subscribe to my YouTube Channel. You'll be notified each time I share a new video!
Equipment
- small bowl
- slow cooker
Don't forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite products! 🛍️
FAQ's
Yes, asparagus will become softer the longer it is cooked. However, it is important to not overcook it as it can become mushy.
Asparagus should be tender but still crisp when pierced with a fork. You can also test for doneness by cutting a small piece and tasting it.
The easy way to know where to cut asparagus is to hold one spear by the ends and bend it until it snaps. The point where it naturally breaks is where you should trim off the bottoms.
Deb's tips
- When making this recipe it's important to look for good fresh asparagus that has a bright green color and firm stalks. If the asparagus is wilted or has brown spots, it may be past its prime and will not taste as good.
- If you are looking for a delicious way to use up your leftover asparagus, try adding it to this Vegetable Frittata for another tasty meal.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings when making this dish, such as adding ham, bacon, or crispy nuts; (thinly sliced almonds would be amazing!) for added flavor.
Fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary or basil. You can also try grilling the asparagus instead of roasting it for a smokier taste.
Storage
Refrigerate - Don't worry if you have leftovers you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezer - While you can technically freeze cooked asparagus you will need to keep in mind that the texture will change and will be softer. It's best enjoyed fresh. Eat them as a snack, they are the best!
Reheat - I've found that the best way to reheat asparagus is by sautéing it in a pan with a little olive oil or butter for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it for about a minute, but this may result in soggy asparagus. Nobody likes soggy asparagus!!
More asparagus recipes
- Roasted Carrots and Asparagus is a wonderful combination of yummy veggies.
- Because I am such of a fan of soup, I always love this recipe for asparagus soup!
- Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is great in the summer, and terrific with a pot roast too!
Related recipes
- These Instant Pot Green Beans are another one of my favorite vegetables to make for an easy dinner side dish or a holiday meal.
- The Candied Sweet Potatoes or Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the perfect addition to any Thanksgiving Christmas dinner or Sunday supper!
- However, if you are looking for a crunchy green vegetable recipe, try the Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts or Braised Swiss Chard for a delicious option!
- If you are in the mood for more vegetable slow cooker recipes then check out this Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup it's great to make a meatless meal that the whole family will love.
Serve with
- A drizzle of Hollandaise Sauce takes asparagus to a whole new level!
- Do you need a main course idea to serve with these tasty veggies? I love to pair them with a hearty dish like this Lazy Lasagna Casserole or Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs.
- You can't have a meal without a bread side dish if you ask me and we love the crunchy texture of this Air Fryer Garlic Bread recipe.
- End this hearty meal with a light and sweet dessert like this Butterscotch Pudding Dessert. It's the perfect sweet treat to balance out the savory flavors of the main course.
I love that this recipe. Asparagus in the crock pot is so good and super easy! I usually double this recipe, because extras are great for snacks or adding to your eggs, YUM!! What do you think? Let me know in the comments below!
Slow Cooker Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Wash the asparagus spears and trim. Remove the tough ends.
- Place the trimmed asparagus in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with olive oil. Drizzle the garlic-infused olive oil over the asparagus in the slow cooker, ensuring all spears are coated.
- Sprinkle lemon zest, salt, and pepper evenly over the asparagus. Gently toss the asparagus in the slow cooker to coat them evenly with the garlic-infused oil and seasonings. Top with parmesan cheese and dot with butter.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 1 ½ hours or until the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness after 2 hours.
- Once the asparagus is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining juices from the slow cooker over the asparagus for added flavor.
- If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus or serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Lois says
We had this and don’t know when I have tasted better asparagus. It was just wonderful. Loved it.
Bowl Me Over says
That's awesome! Glad you enjoy this easy side dish Lois!