Crispy Beef Bacon Wrapped Asparagus (Print Page)

Tender asparagus wrapped in crispy beef bacon, seasoned and roasted for a flavorful side or appetizer.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed

→ Meats

02 - 8 slices beef bacon (approximately 7 ounces)

→ Seasonings

03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

→ Garnish (optional)

07 - 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest

# Directions:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
02 - Rinse the asparagus and trim off the woody ends; pat dry thoroughly.
03 - Toss the asparagus with olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using until evenly coated.
04 - Divide asparagus into 8 bundles and wrap each with one slice of beef bacon, securing ends underneath or with a toothpick if needed.
05 - Place the bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
06 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until asparagus is tender and bacon is crisp.
07 - Transfer bundles to a serving platter and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and lemon zest before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The beef bacon crisps up beautifully while keeping the asparagus tender and sweet inside.
  • It looks impressive but requires almost no skill, just a little wrapping and patience.
  • You can prep the bundles hours ahead and slide them into the oven right before guests arrive.
  • The smoky, savory flavor works as an appetizer or a side dish without feeling heavy.
02 -
  • Dont overcrowd the baking sheet or the bacon will steam instead of crisp. Give each bundle a little breathing room.
  • If the bacon isnt quite crispy after 20 minutes, switch the oven to broil for one or two minutes and watch it closely. It goes from perfect to burnt fast.
  • Thicker asparagus takes longer to cook, so if your spears are chunky, add a few extra minutes or blanch them briefly before wrapping.
03 -
  • Prep the bundles in the morning, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until youre ready to roast. They go from fridge to oven without any extra fuss.
  • If youre cooking for a crowd, double the recipe and use two baking sheets. Just rotate them halfway through so everything crisps evenly.
  • Save any leftover bundles and chop them up the next day to toss into scrambled eggs or a grain bowl. The bacon flavor carries through beautifully.

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