These baked bacon-wrapped asparagus spears are the perfect combination of crispy and tender! The salty bacon adds a delicious flavor to the fresh asparagus, making them super tasty.
They are so easy to make, you might find yourself wrapping asparagus instead of gifts! 😂 I love serving them as a fun snack or a side dish at dinner. Easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for that tender-crisp texture. If asparagus is out of season, try using green beans or zucchini as a substitute. Both wrap nicely with bacon and offer a similar crunch.
Bacon: Thin cut bacon works great for wrapping, but you can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option or pancetta for an Italian twist. Each will provide a slightly different flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich taste. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well too due to its high smoke point and mild flavor.
Garlic Powder: While I love using garlic powder for ease, fresh minced garlic can add a stronger flavor. Use one clove of garlic for every half teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust to your taste!
How Do I Get the Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking the Asparagus?
Getting the bacon crispy while keeping asparagus tender is all about timing and temperature. Baking at 400°F is perfect, but keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. Here’s how:
- Spread the wrapped asparagus evenly on the baking sheet for even cooking.
- If using thicker bacon, check them around 20 minutes; thinner may only need 15.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance, making your dish an instant hit! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Baked Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asparagus:
- 1 lb asparagus spears, trimmed
- 8-10 slices of bacon (thin cut)
For Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. You’ll be wrapping the asparagus in bacon and baking them to crispy perfection. It’s simple and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bacon from sticking and to make cleanup easier. Getting everything prepped ahead of time makes this process smooth!
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
In a large bowl, drizzle the bamboo and olive oil over the trimmed asparagus. Then, add the garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss everything together gently until the asparagus is evenly coated with the seasoning. This helps to enhance the flavor of the vegetable!
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Now for the fun part! Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half lengthwise. Starting from the bottom of an asparagus spear, wrap one half of the bacon tightly around the spear, leaving the tips exposed. If needed, secure the ends with a toothpick or simply tuck them in. Repeat this wrapping process for all the asparagus spears.
4. Arrange and Bake:
Carefully place the wrapped asparagus on the baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures that they cook evenly. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
5. Add Toppings and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top or drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor. Serve them warm as a tasty appetizer or a side dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh asparagus for this dish since frozen asparagus can become mushy when baked. If you only have frozen asparagus, let it thaw completely, then pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before wrapping with bacon.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use melted butter or avocado oil as alternatives. Both will enhance the flavor and help the seasonings stick to the asparagus.
How to Store Leftover Bacon Wrapped Asparagus?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain the crispiness of the bacon.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped asparagus ahead of time. Just wrap the asparagus and place them on the baking sheet, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve!
