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Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
This bacon wrapped asparagus turns out crispy and delicious, working perfectly as a dinner side dish or an elegant appetizer that'll impress everyone at your table. I've been making this low-carb treat for years, and it disappears faster than any other vegetable dish I serve.
I first made these for a holiday gathering when I needed something quick that looked fancy. Now it's requested at every family dinner, and I've even converted several asparagus skeptics with this recipe.
Ingredients
- Asparagus spears: Fresh is best. Look for medium thickness spears with tight, compact tips and firm stalks
- Bacon slices: Thin-cut works best for wrapping. Choose quality bacon for the best flavor
- Melted butter: Adds richness and helps the asparagus roast beautifully
- Balsamic vinegar: Provides a sweet tangy finish that balances the salty bacon perfectly
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle spice that complements the smoky bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Heat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
- Bundle the asparagus:
- Group the trimmed asparagus into bundles of three spears each. The bundles create the perfect portion size and allow the bacon to cook evenly around them.
- Wrap with bacon:
- Take each bundle and carefully wrap a slice of bacon around it, starting at the bottom and spiraling upward. Place each wrapped bundle on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between them.
- Season and prepare:
- Brush the bundles generously with melted butter, making sure to coat the asparagus tips. Sprinkle with salt and pepper evenly over all bundles.
- Bake to perfection:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon becomes crispy and the asparagus is tender but still has a slight bite. Watch carefully in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Finish with balsamic:
- Remove from the oven and immediately brush with balsamic vinegar while still hot. This allows the vinegar to slightly caramelize and create a gorgeous glaze.
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The balsamic vinegar is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its magic by accident when I was looking to add something special to my standard bacon-wrapped asparagus. My daughter now calls these "candy vegetables" because of how the balsamic caramelizes when it hits the hot bacon.
Storage Tips
Properly stored bacon wrapped asparagus can maintain its delicious flavor for several days. After cooking, allow the bundles to cool completely before refrigerating. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture is best the first day, but leftovers still taste amazing when reheated properly in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Making Ahead
This dish works beautifully for meal prep or preparing before guests arrive. You can assemble the bundles up to 24 hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Simply take them out 20 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature, then bake as directed. For best results, add the balsamic glaze only after baking, right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon wrapped asparagus pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially steak or roast chicken. For an elegant appetizer presentation, stand the bundles upright in a shallow dish and provide a small dish of extra balsamic reduction for dipping. I love serving these at brunches alongside eggs Benedict or as part of a holiday spread where their elegant appearance adds to the festive table.
Variations to Try
The classic recipe is perfect as is, but there are several delicious variations worth exploring. Try sprinkling with grated Parmesan cheese before baking for an extra savory dimension. For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey instead of balsamic. You can also experiment with maple syrup instead of balsamic for a different sweet-savory combination that works beautifully with the bacon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I choose the best asparagus for wrapping?
Look for firm, bright green spears with tightly closed tips. Avoid wilted or limp asparagus.
- → What type of bacon works best for this dish?
Thinly sliced bacon works best as it cooks faster and crisps up evenly around the asparagus bundles.
- → Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?
Yes, you can cook the bacon wrapped asparagus in an air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, checking frequently to ensure the bacon crisps evenly.
- → What can I serve with bacon wrapped asparagus?
This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a charcuterie board for appetizers.
- → How do I prevent the bacon from becoming soggy?
Ensure the asparagus bundles are evenly spaced on the baking sheet and not overcrowded so the bacon crisps up properly.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bundles and refrigerate them until ready to bake, up to 6 hours in advance for convenience.