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Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus is a crispy, savory, and elegant side dish or appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Tender asparagus spears are wrapped in smoky bacon and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, resulting in a flavorful dish.
Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer cooks the bacon to crispy perfection while keeping the asparagus tender.
- Elegant Presentation: A visually appealing dish that’s perfect for parties or special occasions.
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: A healthy, guilt-free indulgence!
What to Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
- Grilled Steak or Chicken: A hearty pairing for a balanced meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy side that complements the savory bacon.
- Eggs: Serve with scrambled or poached eggs for a brunch option.
- Salads: Pair with a fresh, green salad for a light, complete meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or garlic aioli make great accompaniments.
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Tender asparagus spears wrapped in smoky bacon and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon (regular or thin-cut works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Balsamic glaze or grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the tough ends. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Take 2-3 asparagus spears and wrap one slice of bacon tightly around the bundle, starting at one end and working your way to the other. Repeat with the remaining asparagus and bacon.
- Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and preheat for 2–3 minutes.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each bundle.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Transfer to a serving plate and drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bundles a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Crispier Bacon: Use thin-cut bacon for a crispier texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Single Spears: Wrap individual asparagus spears for a more delicate presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
Yes, but the cooking time may need to be extended by 2-3 minutes to ensure the bacon crisps up.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
For a plant-based version, use vegan bacon or skip the bacon entirely and drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and balsamic glaze before air frying.
How do I keep the bacon from unraveling?
Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed, but usually, wrapping it tightly holds it in place during cooking.
Wrapping it up
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy bacon and tender asparagus creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Try it today and enjoy this savory treat!