Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a delightful combination of savory and crunchy. This simple dish features fresh asparagus spears hugged by crispy bacon, creating a wonderful flavor and texture that everyone loves. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack, these tasty bundles are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it is easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon complements the fresh and slightly earthy taste of the asparagus. It’s a perfect way to elevate ordinary vegetables into something special. Plus, the combination of ingredients makes each bite a delightful experience. Perfect for any occasion, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is an appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more for seasoning)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 pound asparagus (trimmed to 7-inch long spears)
- Kosher salt (as needed for seasoning)
Directions:
- Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place 5 slices of bacon spaced evenly on the rack.
- Roast the bacon until it starts to shrink and turns slightly red, about 5 minutes. Make sure the bacon is still flexible and not completely crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, maple syrup, garlic salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and brush the maple syrup mixture on both sides of the bacon.
- Roast the bacon for an additional 3 minutes.
- Let the bacon cool until you can handle it. Divide the asparagus into five equal bundles.
- On a cutting board, wrap one slice of the par-cooked bacon around each bundle of asparagus.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick. Place the bundles on the wire rack.
- Generously brush the maple syrup mixture over the bacon-wrapped asparagus.
- Lightly season each bundle with salt and pepper.
- Roast the bundles for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush additional maple mixture on the bacon.
- Roast for 5 more minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove the toothpicks and serve the Bacon Wrapped Asparagus hot.
How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is best served warm. You can arrange the bundles on a platter for a stunning presentation. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or finger food at parties. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a tangy mustard sauce, for extra flavor.
How to Store Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
To store leftover Bacon Wrapped Asparagus, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Tips to Make Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
- Use thick-cut bacon for a better texture and flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the bacon during the initial roasting; it should be flexible.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or sauces for a unique flavor twist.
Variation
If you’d like a healthier version, you can replace the bacon with prosciutto or turkey bacon. You can also add some cheese, like Parmesan or goat cheese, before wrapping the asparagus for extra creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I make Bacon Wrapped Asparagus in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bundles in advance and refrigerate them. Just cook them right before serving for the best results.
2. Can I grill Bacon Wrapped Asparagus instead of baking?
Absolutely! You can grill them on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
3. What dipping sauces go well with Bacon Wrapped Asparagus?
Some popular options include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard dip. Feel free to try whatever sauce you love!
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients
Asparagus and Bacon
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon Use thick-cut bacon for better texture and flavor.
- 1 pound asparagus (trimmed to 7-inch long spears)
- Kosher salt to taste Kosher salt For seasoning.
Seasoning Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Plus more for seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place 5 slices of bacon spaced evenly on the rack. Roast the bacon until it starts to shrink and turns slightly red, about 5 minutes, ensuring it is still flexible.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, maple syrup, garlic salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and brush the maple syrup mixture on both sides of the bacon. Roast for an additional 3 minutes.
Wrapping Asparagus
- Let the bacon cool until you can handle it. Divide the asparagus into five equal bundles.
- On a cutting board, wrap one slice of the par-cooked bacon around each bundle of asparagus and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the bundles on the wire rack and generously brush the maple syrup mixture over the bacon-wrapped asparagus.
- Lightly season each bundle with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Roast the bundles for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush additional maple mixture on the bacon.
- Roast for 5 more minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove the toothpicks and serve hot.
