Baked Bacon Asparagus

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the smoky indulgence of bacon with the fresh, crisp flavor of asparagus, you’re in for a treat. Baked bacon asparagus is one of those recipes that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, hosting a dinner party, or just want to elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe delivers every time.

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making baked bacon asparagus—from tips on choosing the best ingredients to serving suggestions that will wow your guests. Let’s dive in!

Contents

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish. The smoky aroma of bacon fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

I love how the asparagus stays tender and vibrant, perfectly complementing the crispy bacon. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, this dish always brings smiles to the table.

It’s my go-to choice when I want to combine quick preparation with a gourmet touch. The balance of comfort and elegance makes it a standout every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has something for everyone. Here’s why it’s worth trying:

Quick and Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Crowd-Pleaser: Who doesn’t love bacon? This dish is a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Healthy Meets Indulgent: You get the freshness and nutrients of asparagus paired with the rich, smoky goodness of bacon.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of items to create this masterpiece.

What You Might Need

Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even heat distribution.
Parchment Paper: Simplifies cleanup and provides a non-stick surface.
Kitchen Scissors: Perfect for trimming bacon or asparagus.
Tongs: Makes flipping the asparagus easier during baking.
Spatula: A silicone spatula prevents scratching cookware.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make baked bacon asparagus:

1 bunch of asparagus (trimmed, about 1 pound)
6–8 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best for wrapping)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings:
- Grated Parmesan
- Balsamic glaze

Optional toppings:

Grated Parmesan
Balsamic glaze

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect baked bacon asparagus:

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prep the Asparagus
Wash and trim the asparagus by snapping or cutting off the tough ends. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Season the Asparagus
Place the asparagus in a large bowl or on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Wrap the Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting at the base and spiraling up to the tip. Place the wrapped spears seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each spear for even cooking.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping. The bacon should be golden and crispy, and the asparagus tender.
Optional Finishing Touches
Once done, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan on top or drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Best Baked Bacon Asparagus

Use Thin-Cut Bacon
Thin-cut bacon wraps more easily and crisps up faster than thick-cut varieties.
Dry the Asparagus
Make sure your asparagus is completely dry before wrapping. This helps the bacon stick better and prevents steaming during baking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Give each wrapped spear a bit of space to ensure even cooking and crisp bacon.
Experiment with Seasonings
Add a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chili flakes to the olive oil for extra flavor.

Serving Ideas

Baked bacon asparagus is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
Brunch Ready: Pair with scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Appetizer Style: Arrange on a platter with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or honey mustard for a party-friendly snack.
On a Salad: Chop the cooked spears into bite-sized pieces and toss them into a green salad for added texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

Cheesy Asparagus
Add shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
Sweet and Savory
Brush the bacon with a bit of maple syrup or honey before baking for a hint of sweetness.
Spicy Kick
Sprinkle cayenne pepper or red chili flakes on the bacon before wrapping for a spicy twist.
Prosciutto Swap
For a lighter option, use thin slices of prosciutto instead of bacon.

Storing and Reheating

To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Warm in a 375°F oven for 5–10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the bacon crispy.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 120 (depending on bacon thickness)
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g

(Note: Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients.)

FAQs

Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that turkey bacon is leaner and might not crisp up as much as regular bacon.

Q: How do I know when the asparagus is cooked?
The asparagus should be tender but still have a slight crunch. You’ll notice it turns a vibrant green color when done.

Q: Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Wrap the asparagus bundles and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts

Baked bacon asparagus is one of those dishes that ticks all the boxes: it’s easy, impressive, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick dinner or showcasing it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

So why not give it a try? Save this recipe for later, share it with friends, and don’t forget to let me know how it turned out in the comments. I’d love to see your crispy, smoky creations!