There’s something about the combination of crispy bacon and tender asparagus that just sings “special occasion,” don’t you think? But the best part? This elegant side dish comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or looking to jazz up a weeknight dinner, these bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles are the perfect balance of smoky, salty, and fresh.
If you’re looking for an easy yet stunning side dish, these bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles are about to steal the show!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples.
- Super Easy to Make: Just wrap, roast, and serve.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Bacon makes everything better, and even non-asparagus fans will love this one.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Works as a quick weeknight veggie side or an elegant holiday dish.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Asparagus: Look for medium-thick spears for the best texture.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best—it crisps up beautifully and cooks evenly.
- Olive Oil: Adds a little richness and helps with roasting.
- Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle gives a subtle savory depth.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked is best for a bit of heat.
- Brown Sugar (Optional): Gives a hint of sweetness for a caramelized touch.
Pro Tips:
- If your asparagus spears are very thin, you may want to double them up within each bundle to prevent overcooking.
- Don’t skip the olive oil—it helps everything roast evenly!
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how to make these irresistible bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Trim off the woody ends of the asparagus spears. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take 3–4 spears of asparagus and wrap a strip of bacon around them, starting at the bottom and spiraling up. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Roast: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve: Let them rest for a minute before plating. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with flaky salt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Want extra crispy bacon? Give the bundles a quick broil for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- Batch cooking? Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, or the bacon won’t crisp up properly.
- Making ahead? You can assemble these a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge before baking.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before baking for heat.
- Cheesy Twist: A dusting of Parmesan right before serving takes it up a notch.
- Maple-Glazed: Swap the brown sugar for a light drizzle of maple syrup.
- Serve With: These bundles pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple pasta dish.
FAQs
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
I wouldn’t recommend it—it takes longer to cook and may not crisp up before the asparagus is done.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20-25 minutes | Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 8-10 slices thin-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss trimmed asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Group 3-4 asparagus spears together and wrap with a slice of bacon, securing the end underneath.
- Arrange bundles on the baking sheet, seam-side down.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar (if using) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Optional: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispy bacon.
- Let rest for a minute before serving. Enjoy!
There you have it—a simple, elegant dish that delivers delicious flavors with minimal effort. Whether they’re part of a fancy dinner or just a weeknight treat, I know these bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles will become a favorite in your kitchen. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! Drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram with #TheKitchensAid—I love seeing your creations!
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