If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive side dish or appetizer, bacon wrapped asparagus is a fantastic choice. The combination of smoky, crispy bacon and tender, fresh asparagus is irresistible. But how do you cook bacon wrapped asparagus to get that perfect balance of crispy bacon and tender veggies? This article will walk you through easy methods, tips, and tricks to make this crowd-pleaser at home.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients:
– Fresh asparagus (trimmed)
– Thin slices of bacon (regular cut, not thick)
– Optional: melted butter or olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional finishing touches: balsamic vinegar or glaze, grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Asparagus in the Oven
The oven method is the easiest and most hands-off way to get perfectly cooked bacon wrapped asparagus. Here’s how to do it:
- Prep the asparagus: Rinse and trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears. Group them into bundles of about 3 spears each.
- Wrap with bacon: Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each asparagus bundle, starting about half an inch from the bottom and spiraling up, leaving the tips uncovered.
- Season and oil: Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Brush them lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bundles for about 18-25 minutes, depending on your bacon thickness and how crispy you like it. The bacon should be golden and crispy, and the asparagus tender but not mushy.
- Optional broil: For extra crispiness, broil the bundles for 1-3 minutes at the end-just watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or glaze and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you want to switch things up or don’t want to use the oven, here are some other great ways to cook bacon wrapped asparagus:
– Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Wrap the asparagus bundles as usual and secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed. Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning every few minutes to crisp all sides evenly.
– Air Fryer: Place the bundles in a lightly greased air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 7-15 minutes, depending on your air fryer model and bacon thickness. This method is quick and yields crispy results.
– Stovetop: Use a large non-stick skillet with a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the bundles seam-side down first until the bacon crisps, then turn to cook all sides. This method requires more attention and can be a bit messy but works well if you prefer stovetop cooking.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
– Choose the right bacon: Thin slices cook more evenly and crisp up better without overcooking the asparagus.
– Don’t overcrowd: Whether baking or air frying, make sure bundles aren’t touching so the heat circulates and crisps the bacon properly.
– Trim asparagus well: Removing the woody ends ensures tender, pleasant bites.
– Use toothpicks if needed: To keep bacon in place, especially on the grill or stovetop, toothpicks can help secure the wrap.
– Add flavor: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar or glaze after cooking adds a tangy sweetness that complements the smoky bacon beautifully. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty note.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven, air fryer, or microwave until warmed through and crispy again. You can also freeze cooked bundles for up to 6 months-just thaw and reheat when ready.
Bacon wrapped asparagus is a versatile dish that works as a side for dinner, a party appetizer, or even a snack. With these easy cooking methods and tips, you’ll be able to whip up this tasty treat anytime with confidence. Enjoy the perfect blend of crispy bacon and fresh asparagus every time!