Crispy Asparagus Bacon Bundles
These crispy asparagus bacon bundles are a quick and easy party appetizer featuring tender asparagus wrapped in smoky bacon, brushed with garlic olive oil, and baked until golden and crunchy. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or a comforting snack, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 bundles (serves 4-6 as appetizer) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus spears (thin to medium stalks)
- 12 slices bacon (standard thickness, pork preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, depending on bacon saltiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Zest from 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If using a wire rack, set it on top of the baking sheet.
- Trim woody ends from asparagus spears (about 1-2 inches). Group 3-4 spears per bundle.
- If bacon is thick, slice lengthwise into thinner strips for better crisping.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and sea salt.
- Wrap 3-4 asparagus spears with a slice of bacon, spiraling to cover most of the spears. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet or rack.
- Brush each bundle with the seasoned olive oil mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan and lemon zest, if using.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until bacon is golden and crispy and asparagus is tender but bright green. For thicker bacon, bake an extra 3-5 minutes.
- For extra crispiness, broil bundles for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
- Let bundles cool for 2 minutes, then transfer to a platter and serve warm.
Notes
For crispier bacon, bake bundles on a wire rack and broil briefly at the end. Parcook thick-cut bacon before wrapping to prevent sogginess. Assemble bundles up to a day ahead and bake just before serving. Try swapping asparagus for green beans or carrots, and experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or chili flakes. Serve hot for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bundle
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: asparagus bacon bundles, party appetizer, bacon wrapped asparagus, easy appetizer, gluten-free, keto, low carb, spring recipes, holiday appetizer