Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
I still remember the first time I tasted bacon-wrapped asparagus - it was at a dinner party, and I was immediately hooked. The combination of crispy bacon, tender asparagus, and a hint of parmesan cheese was absolute perfection. As a home cook, I was determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen, and after some trial and error, I finally nailed it. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for bacon-wrapped asparagus with you, a dish that's perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
This recipe is a staple in my household, and I love serving it to friends and family. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. I've also found that it's a great way to get my kids to eat their veggies - they love the crispy bacon and don't even notice the asparagus underneath!
As a low-carb keto cook, I'm always on the lookout for delicious and satisfying side dishes that fit within my dietary guidelines. This recipe checks all the boxes - it's low in carbs, high in fat, and packed with flavor. And the best part? It's ready in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Whether you're a fellow keto enthusiast or just looking for a tasty side dish to add to your repertoire, I hope you enjoy this recipe for bacon-wrapped asparagus. It's a game-changer, and I'm confident you'll love it just as much as I do.
In this recipe, we'll be using fresh asparagus, crispy bacon, and a hint of parmesan cheese to create a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. We'll cover the basics of selecting the perfect asparagus, cooking the bacon to crispy perfection, and assembling the dish with ease. So let's get started and dive into the world of bacon-wrapped asparagus!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients
- It's a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies - they'll love the crispy bacon and don't even notice the asparagus underneath
- It's perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner
- It's low in carbs and high in fat, making it a great option for keto enthusiasts
- It's ready in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect addition to any meal
- It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side or added to a variety of meals
Why This Recipe Works
The key to this recipe is the combination of crispy bacon and tender asparagus. By cooking the bacon in the oven, we can achieve a crispy texture that's perfect for wrapping around the asparagus. And by using fresh asparagus, we can ensure that the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of parmesan cheese. The nutty, salty flavor of the cheese pairs perfectly with the asparagus and bacon, adding a depth of flavor that elevates the dish to the next level. And by sprinkling the cheese over the asparagus before baking, we can create a crispy, golden-brown crust that's absolutely irresistible.
Finally, the cooking technique used in this recipe is also important. By baking the asparagus in the oven, we can cook the vegetables evenly and prevent them from becoming mushy or overcooked. And by using a high heat, we can achieve a crispy texture on the bacon that's perfect for wrapping around the asparagus.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you'll need just a few ingredients, including fresh asparagus, crispy bacon, and parmesan cheese. You'll also need some salt, pepper, and olive oil to bring out the flavors of the dish. When selecting your ingredients, be sure to choose fresh asparagus that's tender and flavorful, and crispy bacon that's smoked to perfection.
In addition to the ingredients, you'll also need some basic kitchen equipment, including a baking sheet, a cutting board, and a knife. You'll also need some aluminum foil to wrap the asparagus and bacon, and a baking dish to cook the dish in the oven.
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmedWhen selecting asparagus, look for spears that are tender and have a vibrant green color. Avoid asparagus that's wilted or has brown tips, as it may be old or of poor quality. You can also use frozen asparagus if fresh is not available, but be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- 6 slices of crispy bacon, cut in halfTo get crispy bacon, look for thick-cut slices that are smoked to perfection. You can also use regular bacon if you prefer, but be sure to cook it in the oven until it's crispy to achieve the best results. Avoid using thin-cut bacon, as it may not hold up well to wrapping around the asparagus.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheeseWhen selecting parmesan cheese, look for a high-quality variety that's aged to perfection. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it may contain additives or preservatives that can affect the flavor of the dish. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, but parmesan is the best choice for this recipe.
- 2 tablespoons olive oilWhen selecting olive oil, look for a high-quality variety that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. Avoid using low-quality olive oil, as it may have a bitter taste or an unpleasant aroma. You can also use other types of oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but olive oil is the best choice for this recipe.
- Salt and pepper to tasteWhen seasoning the dish, be sure to use salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika, to give the dish more flavor. Avoid over-seasoning, as it can make the dish too salty or overpowering.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsleyWhen selecting parsley, look for fresh leaves that are vibrant green and have a fresh aroma. Avoid using wilted or brown parsley, as it may be old or of poor quality. You can also use other types of herbs, such as basil or thyme, but parsley is the best choice for this recipe.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chivesWhen selecting chives, look for fresh leaves that are vibrant green and have a fresh aroma. Avoid using wilted or brown chives, as it may be old or of poor quality. You can also use other types of herbs, such as scallions or garlic, but chives are the best choice for this recipe.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juiceWhen selecting lemon juice, look for a fresh and high-quality variety that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it may contain preservatives or additives that can affect the flavor of the dish. You can also use other types of citrus, such as lime or orange, but lemon is the best choice for this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powderWhen selecting garlic powder, look for a high-quality variety that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. Avoid using low-quality garlic powder, as it may have a bitter taste or an unpleasant aroma. You can also use other types of seasonings, such as onion powder or paprika, but garlic powder is the best choice for this recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepperWhen selecting black pepper, look for a high-quality variety that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. Avoid using low-quality black pepper, as it may have a bitter taste or an unpleasant aroma. You can also use other types of pepper, such as white pepper or green pepper, but black pepper is the best choice for this recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon saltWhen selecting salt, look for a high-quality variety that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. Avoid using low-quality salt, as it may have a bitter taste or an unpleasant aroma. You can also use other types of salt, such as sea salt or kosher salt, but regular salt is the best choice for this recipe.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
- 1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang on the sides to wrap the asparagus and bacon.
- 2Rinse the asparagus under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Trim the ends of the asparagus to create uniform spears.
- 3Cut the bacon in half and wrap each spear of asparagus with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each spear.
- 4Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- 5Bake the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it's tender and the bacon is crispy. Remove the asparagus from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- 6Return the asparagus to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the asparagus from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- 7Sprinkle the chopped parsley and chives over the asparagus, then squeeze the lemon juice over the top. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly with the herbs and lemon juice.
- 8Serve the asparagus hot, garnished with additional parsley and chives if desired. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite sauce or dressing, such as hollandaise or ranch.
- 9To make the dish more substantial, you can add some protein such as grilled chicken or salmon. Simply cook the protein according to your preference, then serve it on top of the asparagus.
- 10To make the dish more flavorful, you can add some aromatics such as onion or bell pepper. Simply sauté the aromatics in a pan with some oil until they're tender, then add them to the asparagus.
- 11To make the dish more visually appealing, you can garnish it with some edible flowers or microgreens. Simply sprinkle the flowers or microgreens over the top of the asparagus, then serve.
- 12To make the dish more convenient, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply bake the asparagus in the oven until it's tender, then let it cool before refrigerating it.
- 13To reheat the asparagus, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through.
Expert Tips
- To get crispy bacon, make sure to cook it in the oven until it's golden brown and crispy.
- To prevent the asparagus from becoming mushy, make sure to not overcook it. It should be tender but still crisp.
- To add more flavor to the dish, you can sprinkle some grated cheese or chopped herbs over the asparagus before baking.
- To make the dish more substantial, you can add some protein such as grilled chicken or salmon.
- To make the dish more visually appealing, you can garnish it with some edible flowers or microgreens.
- To make the dish more convenient, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.
- To reheat the asparagus, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through.
- To prevent the asparagus from becoming dry, make sure to not overcook it and to keep it moist with some oil or butter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the asparagus, which can make it mushy and unappetizing.
- Not cooking the bacon until it's crispy, which can make it chewy and unpleasant.
- Not using enough oil or butter to keep the asparagus moist, which can make it dry and unappetizing.
- Not seasoning the asparagus enough, which can make it bland and unflavorful.
- Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Not following the recipe instructions carefully, which can result in a dish that's not cooked correctly.
Variations and Substitutions
- Adding some diced onion or bell pepper to the asparagus for extra flavor and texture.
- Using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.
- Adding some chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Using different types of herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a unique flavor profile.
- Adding some spice, such as red pepper flakes or paprika, for an extra kick of heat.
- Using different types of protein, such as grilled chicken or salmon, for a more substantial dish.
- Adding some sauce or dressing, such as hollandaise or ranch, for extra flavor and creaminess.
What to Serve With Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
This dish is perfect for serving as a side or adding to a variety of meals. You can serve it with a grilled steak or chicken, or add it to a salad or pasta dish. It's also a great addition to a brunch or breakfast dish, and can be served with eggs, toast, or hash browns.
Some other ideas for serving this dish include adding it to a charcuterie board, serving it as a snack or appetizer, or using it as a topping for a pizza or flatbread. You can also use it as a filling for a sandwich or wrap, or add it to a soup or stew for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, or frozen for up to 3 months. To store it in the refrigerator, simply let it cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.
To freeze the dish, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through.
It's also important to note that the dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply bake the asparagus in the oven until it's tender, then let it cool before refrigerating it. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through.
In addition to storing the dish in the refrigerator or freezer, you can also store it in a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs to keep it fresh for several hours. This is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or other outdoor events where you need to keep the dish fresh for an extended period of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of asparagus is best for this recipe?
The best type of asparagus for this recipe is fresh and tender, with a vibrant green color and a slightly sweet flavor. You can use either thick or thin asparagus, depending on your preference.
How do I get crispy bacon?
To get crispy bacon, make sure to cook it in the oven until it's golden brown and crispy. You can also cook it in a pan on the stovetop, but be careful not to burn it.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus for this recipe. Simply thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
How do I prevent the asparagus from becoming mushy?
To prevent the asparagus from becoming mushy, make sure to not overcook it. It should be tender but still crisp. You can also add some oil or butter to the asparagus to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
Can I add other ingredients to the dish?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the dish to suit your taste. Some ideas include diced onion or bell pepper, chopped nuts or seeds, or grated cheese.
How do I store the dish?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, or frozen for up to 3 months. To store it in the refrigerator, simply let it cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.
Can I make the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply bake the asparagus in the oven until it's tender, then let it cool before refrigerating it.
How do I reheat the dish?
To reheat the dish, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 6 slices of crispy bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang on the sides to wrap the asparagus and bacon.
- Rinse the asparagus under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Trim the ends of the asparagus to create uniform spears.
- Cut the bacon in half and wrap each spear of asparagus with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each spear.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- Bake the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it's tender and the bacon is crispy. Remove the asparagus from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Return the asparagus to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the asparagus from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley and chives over the asparagus, then squeeze the lemon juice over the top. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly with the herbs and lemon juice.
- Serve the asparagus hot, garnished with additional parsley and chives if desired. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite sauce or dressing, such as hollandaise or ranch.
- To make the dish more substantial, you can add some protein such as grilled chicken or salmon. Simply cook the protein according to your preference, then serve it on top of the asparagus.
- To make the dish more flavorful, you can add some aromatics such as onion or bell pepper. Simply sauté the aromatics in a pan with some oil until they're tender, then add them to the asparagus.
- To make the dish more visually appealing, you can garnish it with some edible flowers or microgreens. Simply sprinkle the flowers or microgreens over the top of the asparagus, then serve.
- To make the dish more convenient, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply bake the asparagus in the oven until it's tender, then let it cool before refrigerating it.
- To reheat the asparagus, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through.