Crispy Beef Bacon Asparagus (Printable)

Savory beef bacon wrapped asparagus roasted until crispy, ideal for elegant sides or appetizers.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

→ Meats

02 - 8 slices beef bacon (approx. 7 oz)

→ Seasonings

03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

→ Garnish (optional)

07 - 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1 tsp lemon zest

# How to Make:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
02 - Rinse the asparagus and trim off woody ends, then pat dry thoroughly.
03 - Drizzle olive oil over asparagus, sprinkle with black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using; toss to coat evenly.
04 - Divide asparagus into 8 equal bundles and wrap each with one slice of beef bacon, securing ends underneath or with toothpicks as needed.
05 - Place bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly.
06 - Cook for 18 to 20 minutes until asparagus is tender and bacon is crisp.
07 - Transfer bundles to a platter and optionally garnish with Parmesan cheese and lemon zest before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The beef bacon gets so crispy it practically shatters when you bite into it, while the asparagus stays tender and sweet inside.
  • It looks fancy enough to impress guests, but its honestly just wrapping and roasting, nothing stressful.
  • You can prep the bundles ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when youre ready.
02 -
  • If your bacon isnt crisping up as much as youd like, turn on the broiler for the last 1 to 2 minutes and keep a close eye on it.
  • Pat the asparagus completely dry before seasoning, or the oil will just slide off and pool on the pan.
  • Dont skip the space between bundles on the baking sheet, crowding them makes the bacon steam instead of crisp.
03 -
  • If your bacon is on the thicker side, partially cook it in a skillet for 2 to 3 minutes before wrapping so it finishes at the same time as the asparagus.
  • Use toothpicks to secure the bacon ends if theyre not staying in place, just remember to remove them before serving.
  • For a smoky char, finish the bundles on a hot grill for the last few minutes instead of broiling.