The Method: Roast, Sauce, Top, Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
Step 2: Roast the Asparagus
Trim the woody ends from the asparagus (bend a spear—it will snap naturally where the tender part begins).
Spread asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
Roast for 8-10 minutes, until bright green and just tender but still with some bite. They’ll cook further in the casserole, so don’t overdo it.
Remove from oven and set aside. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
