Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Tender asparagus spears are wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon and baked to perfection. A drizzle of garlic butter or a sprinkle of brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness or savory depth, making them a versatile addition to your dinner table, holiday spread, or BBQ menu. The contrasting textures of the crunchy bacon and tender asparagus, combined with a burst of flavor, make this dish a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus (about 16-20 spears), trimmed
- 8-10 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a sweet twist)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus spears and trim off the tough ends.
- Season the Asparagus: In a bowl, toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Wrap with Bacon: Gather 3-4 asparagus spears into a bundle and wrap one slice of bacon around the bundle, starting at the base and spiraling upwards. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar over each bundle for caramelization.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. Turn the bundles halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips:
- For an extra kick, brush the bacon with a mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard before baking.
- Thin-cut bacon works best, as it crisps up without overcooking the asparagus.
- These bundles can also be grilled over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently.
