If you’re looking for an appetizer or side dish that feels fancy but takes almost no effort, let me introduce you to Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to, whether I’m hosting a small dinner party or just craving something crispy, savory, and healthy-ish. There’s something so satisfying about the way the smoky bacon complements the tender asparagus spears. Plus, the air fryer makes it ridiculously quick and easy—no messy stovetop frying required!
When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how well it turned out. The asparagus had just the right amount of crunch, and the bacon was perfectly crisp without being greasy. It’s now a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share all the details with you so you can try it, too.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Asparagus: Look for fresh, medium-sized asparagus spears. They should be firm and bright green with tightly closed tips. Avoid overly thick stalks as they may not cook through properly before the bacon crisps.
Bacon: Choose thin-cut bacon for this recipe. It wraps more easily around the asparagus and crisps up nicely in the air fryer. If you use thick-cut bacon, you may need to par-cook it first to ensure it cooks through.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps the asparagus stay tender and adds a touch of richness. You can skip this step if you’re watching your fat intake.
Garlic Powder: This seasoning adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the asparagus and bacon.
Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
Optional Parmesan Cheese: If you want to elevate the dish, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on the asparagus before wrapping it with bacon. It adds a salty, nutty flavor that’s irresistible.
Ingredients List
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound)
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
Wash and dry the asparagus spears thoroughly. Trim off the tough, woody ends by snapping them where they naturally break or cutting about 1-2 inches off the bottom.
Step 2: Season the Asparagus
Place the asparagus in a bowl or on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Wrap the Asparagus with Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around one asparagus spear, starting just below the tip and spiraling down to the base. Repeat with the remaining asparagus and bacon.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus spears in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the asparagus from the air fryer using tongs and transfer it to a serving plate. Serve immediately while the bacon is still crisp.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Choose the Right Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best as it crisps up quickly without overcooking the asparagus.
- Don’t Skip the Preheat: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and helps the bacon get crispy.
- Cook in Batches: If your air fryer basket is small, cook the asparagus in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Add a Twist: For a sweet-savory combo, brush the bacon with a touch of maple syrup before wrapping it around the asparagus.
- Make It Cheesy: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the asparagus before wrapping for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use thick-cut bacon? Yes, but you’ll need to partially cook the bacon first to ensure it crisps up by the time the asparagus is done.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prep the bacon-wrapped asparagus a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook it fresh when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can bake the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to re-crisp the bacon.
What can I serve with this dish? Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.