Prepare to fall in love with your air fryer all over again! This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible side dish or appetizer that’s ready in minutes. Combining the smoky, savory crunch of bacon with the tender, slightly sweet flavor of fresh asparagus, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and impressive addition to your meal, look no further than these delightful bacon-wrapped bundles.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: Your New Go-To Side
Bacon has a magical way of making everything better, and fresh vegetables are certainly no exception! For many years, asparagus wasn’t my favorite green, but wrapping it in crispy, flavorful bacon truly changed my perspective. It elevates the humble asparagus spear into something truly extraordinary, transforming it from a simple vegetable into a gourmet experience. With the recent rise in popularity of air fryers, I decided to adapt this beloved recipe for my own appliance, and I was absolutely amazed at how perfectly it cooked the bacon to a golden crisp while keeping the asparagus tender-crisp inside. This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus has quickly become my absolute favorite way to enjoy this delicious spring vegetable, offering unmatched convenience, speed, and flavor that will impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Adore This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Recipe
Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, this recipe offers a multitude of benefits that make it an essential addition to your cooking repertoire:
- Unbeatable Speed: In today’s fast-paced world, quick meal solutions are invaluable. From initial preparation to serving, these savory bundles are ready in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or when unexpected guests arrive. The air fryer drastically cuts down cooking time compared to conventional ovens.
- Effortlessly Delicious: The classic combination of smoky, salty bacon and the earthy, slightly sweet notes of fresh asparagus is a culinary match made in heaven. The air fryer’s unique cooking method ensures the bacon crisps up beautifully without burning, while the asparagus cooks to a desirable tender-crisp texture, retaining its vibrant green color and delicate flavor.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You won’t need a lengthy grocery list for this recipe. It relies on a handful of readily available ingredients—most of which are likely already in your pantry—to create a dish that tastes far more complex than it is. Simple seasonings enhance, rather than mask, the natural flavors.
- Healthier Indulgence: While bacon adds a decadent touch, asparagus is packed with vitamins and fiber. The air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, allowing you to enjoy the irresistible taste of crispy bacon without excessive added fats. It’s a fantastic way to make vegetables appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
- Incredibly Versatile: This dish shines in many roles. Serve it as a sophisticated yet simple appetizer at your next gathering, an elegant side dish for a formal dinner, a hearty component of a brunch spread, or even a satisfying healthy snack throughout the day. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion.
- Air Fryer Perfection: The circulating hot air within an air fryer is uniquely suited for this recipe. It cooks the bacon evenly from all sides, rendering out the fat and achieving a superior crispness that’s often difficult to replicate in an oven. Simultaneously, it cooks the asparagus quickly, preventing it from becoming soggy or overcooked, resulting in that perfect tender-crisp bite every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Let’s dive into some common questions to help you master this delightful Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus recipe and customize it to your liking.
What kind of bacon should I use for optimal crispiness and flavor?
While you can certainly use your favorite bacon, the type you choose will influence the final texture and cooking time. I personally love using a thick-cut, applewood smoked bacon for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon provides a more substantial, chewy-crisp texture and is generally easier to wrap around the asparagus spears without tearing. The applewood smoke adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you prefer a much crispier bacon that shatters with every bite, a regular-cut (thinner) bacon will achieve that more quickly. Just remember to keep a close eye on it, as thinner bacon cooks faster and can burn if left unattended. Always ensure your bacon is fresh and not overly fatty, as excessive fat can cause smoke in the air fryer.
Are there any delicious variations or enhancements for bacon-wrapped asparagus?
This recipe is incredibly versatile and lends itself beautifully to various flavor modifications. Don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few popular ideas:
- Zesty Lemon & Parmesan: For a bright and tangy contrast to the rich bacon, add a generous splash of fresh lemon juice over the cooked asparagus bundles just before serving. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus spears about 5 minutes before the air fryer timer goes off. The heat will melt the cheese into a delicious, golden crust.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the seasoning mix. For an even more intense spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added alongside the paprika and garlic powder.
- Sweet & Savory Glaze: For a truly unique flavor profile, lightly brush the bacon with a tiny bit of maple syrup or sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar over it before air frying. This creates a caramelized, sweet-and-savory crust that is absolutely addictive.
- Aromatic Herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs into your seasoning. A pinch of dried thyme, rosemary, or even Italian seasoning mixed with the olive oil can add a wonderful aromatic dimension to the dish.
- Extra Garlic Goodness: For true garlic aficionados, mince one or two fresh garlic cloves and mix them with the olive oil before tossing with the asparagus. Be mindful that fresh garlic can brown faster than garlic powder in the air fryer.
Why is it important to snap the ends off of asparagus?
Snapping the ends off asparagus spears is a fundamental step that ensures a pleasant eating experience. The bottom section of an asparagus spear is typically quite fibrous, tough, and woody, making it unappetizing and difficult to chew. By holding an asparagus spear near the bottom with one hand and near the middle with the other, and gently bending it, the spear will naturally break at the precise point where the woody, inedible portion ends and the tender, flavorful part begins. This natural break ensures you’re left with only the most succulent and desirable part of the vegetable, guaranteeing a perfectly cooked and enjoyable dish.
Can I bake these bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles in a traditional oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! If you don’t own an air fryer or simply prefer using your conventional oven, you can easily adapt this recipe. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles in a single layer on a baking sheet. For easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, it’s highly recommended to line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, or simply spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is delightfully crispy and the asparagus is tender to your liking. Keep a close watch during the final minutes, as oven temperatures can vary, and cooking times may need slight adjustments.
What are some ideal main dishes to serve alongside bacon-wrapped asparagus?
Asparagus is an incredibly versatile and universally loved side dish that complements a wide array of proteins and meal types. These bacon-wrapped bundles, with their enhanced flavor, are particularly excellent with:
- Chicken: This is a classic and highly recommended pairing! It goes beautifully with a perfectly Roasted Chicken, juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts, grilled chicken, or even chicken stir-fry.
- Beef: Elevate any beef meal. It makes a fantastic accompaniment to a perfectly seared steak, succulent prime rib, tender beef tenderloin, or even a simple yet satisfying grilled burger.
- Pork: Pair it with Air Fryer Pork Chops, a savory pork loin roast, or even as a delightful addition to your breakfast with crispy sausages or ham.
- Fish & Seafood: The light, fresh flavor of asparagus creates a wonderful balance with various types of fish like baked salmon, pan-seared cod, or even Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.
- Brunch Spreads: Make your brunch memorable by serving these as a gourmet touch alongside eggs Benedict, fluffy pancakes, quiches, or frittatas.
Can these asparagus bundles be assembled ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes, absolutely! This is one of the fantastic features of this recipe, making meal preparation incredibly convenient. You can assemble these bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles up to one day in advance. After wrapping each bundle, simply place them in an airtight container or arrange them on a plate and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This preparation tip is perfect for entertaining guests, holiday meals, or simply making your weeknight cooking routine much smoother and faster.
How do I properly store and reheat any leftovers?
While these bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles are undeniably at their absolute best when served fresh, you can certainly store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Be aware that the asparagus will inevitably lose some of its initial crispness, and the bacon may soften slightly. To reheat and attempt to restore some of that delicious texture, I highly recommend using your air fryer or oven again. Place them back in the air fryer at a moderate temperature (around 300-325°F or 150-160°C) for a few minutes, or in a preheated oven until they are warmed through and the bacon crisps up again. Avoid reheating in a microwave, as this will likely result in soggy asparagus and limp bacon, diminishing the overall quality of the dish.
Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Success in cooking often starts with selecting quality ingredients. This recipe, while simple, benefits greatly from fresh, vibrant components. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and what to look for:
- Fresh Asparagus: Aim for bright green, firm spears with tightly closed, compact tips. Avoid any spears that appear wilted, feel rubbery, or have soft spots or open, flowery tips, as these are signs of age. Thicker spears tend to hold up well and provide a more substantial bite, but thinner ones cook faster.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is ideal. It helps the seasonings adhere evenly to the asparagus and contributes to a lovely roast during cooking, enhancing its flavor and texture.
- Garlic Powder: This provides a consistent, savory, and aromatic baseline flavor without the risk of fresh garlic burning in the high heat of the air fryer. It’s a pantry staple that delivers big on taste.
- Paprika: Adds a beautiful, warm reddish hue to the asparagus and a mild, subtly sweet, and peppery flavor. It’s a versatile spice that complements both the bacon’s smokiness and the asparagus’s earthiness.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning. Kosher salt has a larger crystal size, which makes it easier to control the salinity and ensures a well-balanced flavor throughout the dish.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Provides a sharp, pungent kick that brightens and invigorates the overall flavor profile. Always opt for freshly cracked for the best aroma and taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who appreciate a gentle warmth and a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful complexity without overwhelming the dish. Adjust the quantity to your personal preference.
- Bacon: As previously discussed, thick-cut bacon is often recommended for its structural integrity when wrapping and its satisfying texture. However, feel free to use your preferred type. Consider flavors like applewood smoked or hickory smoked for added depth.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Achieving perfectly crispy bacon and tender asparagus in your air fryer is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed steps to ensure delicious results every time.
1. Prepare and Trim the Asparagus
Start by thoroughly rinsing your fresh asparagus spears under cold running water. Once clean, gently pat them completely dry with paper towels; excess moisture can hinder crisping. Next, it’s time to remove the woody, tough ends. A reliable method is to hold an individual asparagus spear between two fingers near the bottom and another two fingers further up the stalk (about two-thirds of the way). Gently bend the spear; it will naturally snap at the point where the tough, fibrous base meets the tender, edible portion. Discard the woody ends. Repeat this process for all asparagus spears.
2. Season the Asparagus
Transfer the trimmed asparagus spears to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Drizzle them evenly with olive oil, making sure each spear gets a light coating. Next, generously sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. If you’re incorporating red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, add them now. Use your hands or a pair of tongs to gently toss the asparagus until all the spears are thoroughly and evenly coated with the seasoning mix. This ensures every bite of asparagus is infused with flavor before it even meets the bacon.
3. Wrap in Bacon
Carefully separate the seasoned asparagus spears into 6 individual bundles. The ideal size for each bundle is typically around 4-6 spears, depending on the thickness of your asparagus and how hearty you want each serving to be. Take one strip of bacon and firmly wrap it around the center of each asparagus bundle. Ensure the bacon is snug enough to hold the spears together. If your bacon strips are particularly long, you might find it beneficial to wrap them more than once for added security. For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle a little more freshly cracked black pepper over the bacon-wrapped bundles at this point.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Once all your asparagus bundles are wrapped, it’s time to place them into your air fryer basket. This step is crucial for achieving optimal results: arrange the bundles in a single layer, ensuring there is adequate space between each one. It is vital not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as proper air circulation is key to evenly cooked, crispy bacon and tender asparagus. If your air fryer has a smaller basket, you will likely need to cook these in two or more separate batches. Stacking or overlapping the bundles will result in uneven cooking and a less desirable texture.
5. Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Close your air fryer and set the temperature to 360°F (180°C). Air fry the asparagus bundles for an initial 10-15 minutes. The precise cooking time will vary based on several factors: the thickness of your asparagus spears, the cut and thickness of your bacon, and the specific model and efficiency of your air fryer. To ensure the bacon crisps up evenly on all sides, it’s a good practice to flip the bundles halfway through the cooking process (around the 5-7 minute mark). Continue to cook until the bacon achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture, and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Pay close attention during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking or burning.
6. Serve Immediately
Once your Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus bundles are perfectly cooked and gleaming, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket. They will be incredibly hot and wonderfully aromatic. Arrange them on a serving platter and serve immediately to enjoy their optimal texture and flavor. These bundles are perfect as a stand-alone appetizer or a fantastic, flavor-packed side dish that will impress any diner.
Expert Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Every Time
To ensure your Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus turns out perfectly delicious and crispy, keep these expert tips in mind:
- The Golden Rule: Don’t Overcrowd Your Air Fryer: This cannot be stressed enough. For truly crispy bacon and evenly cooked asparagus, hot air needs to circulate freely around each bundle. If your air fryer basket is small, cook in multiple batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping.
- Monitor Closely: Air fryer temperatures and cooking times can vary significantly between different models and even due to the thickness of your ingredients. Always keep an eye on your bundles, especially during the first time you make this recipe. Adjust cooking time as needed to achieve your desired bacon crispiness and asparagus tenderness.
- Flip for Even Crisping: For uniformly crispy bacon on all sides, make sure to flip the asparagus bundles halfway through the cooking process. This ensures every part of the bacon gets direct exposure to the circulating hot air.
- Pat Dry Asparagus: After washing, thoroughly pat your asparagus spears dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can cause the asparagus to steam instead of roast, leading to a less desirable texture and preventing the seasonings from adhering properly.
- Secure with Toothpicks (Optional): If you find that your bacon isn’t staying tightly wrapped around the asparagus bundles, especially with thinner bacon, a wooden toothpick can be your best friend. Simply thread it through the bacon and asparagus to secure the bundle. Just be sure to remove all toothpicks before serving!
- Preheat for Consistency: While not strictly mandatory for all air fryer recipes, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the food can help achieve more consistent cooking results and a slightly faster cook time.
- Draining Excess Fat: As the bacon cooks, it will render fat. Most air fryers are designed to collect this in a drip tray, but if you notice excessive smoking, you might have too much fat accumulated. You can carefully drain some fat between batches if necessary.
Craving More Air Fryer Recipes?
If you’ve been impressed by the speed, simplicity, and fantastic results of this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus recipe, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer is an incredibly versatile appliance, capable of producing a wide array of delicious dishes, from crispy main courses to tender vegetables and even baked goods. Expand your air fryer culinary horizons with these other fantastic recipes:
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Air Fryer Potatoes and Sausage
- Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
- Air Fryer Pork Chops
- Air Fryer Buttermilk Biscuits
- Air Fryer Cauliflower
- Air Fryer Acorn Squash
- Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Bacon Wrapped Beer Brats
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Recipe Card
If you love quick and delicious appetizers or side dishes, then you must make this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus! It only takes a few minutes and only a small handful of ingredients!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 bundles
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 bundles asparagus spears (about 30 spears total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, divided use
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 strips of bacon (I used thick cut)
Instructions
- Rinse off the asparagus and trim off the woody part of the asparagus spears. Tip: If you hold an asparagus spear between two fingers and bend it lightly, the asparagus will naturally bend at the part that needs to be removed. You can snap it right off. Dry the asparagus with paper towels.
- Add trimmed asparagus spears to a medium bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix until the asparagus spears are coated well.
- Separate the asparagus spears into 6 individual bundles. Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each bundle. Sprinkle the bacon with freshly cracked black pepper.
- Place the asparagus bundles in your air fryer basket. This may need to be done in batches if you have a smaller air fryer basket. Note: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket or the air will be unable to circulate to properly cook the asparagus.
- Air fry at 360°F (180°C) degrees for 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.
Video Tutorial
Recipe Notes and Tips
- Cooking time might be more or less depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears and bacon that you use. It’s best to keep an eye on it as it cooks in the air fryer. You want the bacon to be crispy.
- If you notice the bacon or asparagus getting too dark on one side, just flip it over halfway through cooking.
- Add a splash of lemon juice and freshly grated parmesan cheese for a delicious variation. To make with parmesan cheese: sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the asparagus spears about 5 minutes before the timer goes off on the air fryer.
- Make sure you snap the ends off the asparagus before cooking, this removes the woody part that is tough and not edible.
- You can use any bacon you like. If it is thicker, it will be easier to wrap around the asparagus. However, it will take longer to cook. Thinner bacon will be more crispy.
- These asparagus bundles can also be baked. Place the bacon wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) degrees for about 30 minutes.
- These can be assembled one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories: 50 kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Sodium: 197mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.