what temp to cook asparagus in oven
You’ll get the best roasted asparagus by cooking it hot and fast in the oven—around 400–425°F (200–220°C) for 10–15 minutes, depending on thickness.
Ideal oven temperature
- A great all‑purpose temp is 400°F (200°C) for tender‑crisp spears in about 12–15 minutes for medium thickness.
- Many popular recipes also use 425°F (220°C) for 7–15 minutes, which gives a bit more browning and char at the tips.
- Going much lower than 375°F tends to make asparagus softer and less caramelized, while much higher than 425°F risks burning the tips before the stalks are cooked.
Time by thickness
- Thin spears: 8–10 minutes at 400°F.
- Medium spears: 12–15 minutes at 400°F.
- Thick spears: 15–18 minutes; you can stay at 400°F or drop slightly to 375°F to avoid burning the tips.
A simple way to remember it: hot oven (400–425°F), single layer on a baking sheet, olive oil, salt, pepper, and start checking a few minutes early so they come out bright green, tender, and just starting to brown at the tips.