Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

There’s something irresistibly indulgent about combining tender asparagus spears, rich garlic butter, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. These Garlic Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a showstopper—perfect for elevating a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering. They’re deliciously savory with a hint of spice, a medley of textures, and they look as good as they taste.

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, especially during spring when asparagus is at its peak. The combination of vibrant green asparagus and golden, crispy bacon makes this dish as stunning on the plate as it is satisfying to eat. Whether served as an appetizer, a side, or even as part of a brunch spread, these bundles deliver on flavor, presentation, and simplicity.

So, what makes these Garlic Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles so special? The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the ease of preparation. The melted garlic butter infuses the asparagus with a rich, savory aroma, while the bacon adds saltiness and crunch. The finishing touch of Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes brings depth and a touch of heat, rounding out the dish beautifully. Trust me—once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re still deciding whether to give these a try, here are a few reasons why this recipe will quickly earn a place in your favorites:

1. Easy to Make

You only need six ingredients, most of which are probably already in your kitchen. The steps are straightforward, and the prep time is minimal—perfect for when you want an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Packed with Flavor

The garlic butter coats the asparagus spears with an irresistible richness, while the bacon and Parmesan provide a salty-savory umami punch. A little red pepper adds just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.

3. Stunning Presentation

Asparagus bundles are naturally elegant. Wrapped in bacon and roasted until golden, they’re as visually appealing as they are delicious.

4. Versatile

Serve them as a side to complement roasted chicken, steak, or fish, or as a standalone appetizer for any occasion. They’re equally at home on a casual dinner table or at a festive holiday feast.

5. Kid-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love these. The bacon makes the asparagus more approachable for picky eaters, and the crispy edges are simply irresistible.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 (depending on portion size)
• Calories per serving: 200
• Key Nutritional Info: Protein: 12g, Fat: 15g, Carbs: 4g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these Garlic Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles:

• 2 lb asparagus: Washed and trimmed of woody ends. Choose spears that are uniform in size for even cooking.
• 2 tbsp fresh churned garlic butter, melted: Adds rich garlic flavor and helps keep the asparagus tender and flavorful.
• 1 lb thinly sliced bacon: Thin slices cook faster and crisp up better.
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, salty finish.
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This temperature ensures the asparagus cooks to tender perfection while the bacon crisps up nicely.

2. Prep the Asparagus

Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim off the woody ends. To do this, bend each spear gently until it snaps naturally. The part that breaks off is the tough end you’ll discard.

3. Brush with Garlic Butter

Melt the garlic butter and use a pastry brush to coat each asparagus spear lightly. This step ensures the asparagus stays moist during roasting while infusing it with delicious garlic flavor.

4. Bundle and Wrap

Take three spears of asparagus and arrange them in a small bundle. Starting at the base of the spears, wrap one slice of bacon around the bundle, working your way up. Overlap the edges of the bacon slightly to ensure the bundle holds together. Repeat until all asparagus and bacon are used.

Tip: Let the bacon come to room temperature before wrapping—it’s more pliable and cooks evenly this way.

5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. If using a wire rack, it will help air circulate around the bundles, resulting in crispier bacon.

6. Bake

Bake the bundles for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus and bacon. Turn the bundles halfway through cooking to ensure the bacon cooks evenly.

7. Broil for Extra Crispiness

Increase the oven temperature to broil. Broil the bundles for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This step gives the bacon that irresistible crispy finish.

8. Finish with Cheese and Spices

Remove the bundles from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with finely grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

How to Serve

These Garlic Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of this dish:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a juicy steak for a complete meal.
• As an Appetizer: Place on a platter with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or balsamic glaze.
• For Brunch: Pair with scrambled eggs, quiche, or a savory frittata for an elevated brunch spread.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Thin Bacon: Thinly sliced bacon wraps more easily and crisps up faster.
2. Keep Asparagus Cool: Wrapping the asparagus straight from the fridge ensures it doesn’t overcook before the bacon crisps.
3. Don’t Skip the Wire Rack: Elevating the bundles on a wire rack allows for better air circulation, making the bacon evenly crispy.
4. Rotate for Even Cooking: Turn the pan halfway through cooking if your oven has hot spots.
5. Keep an Eye While Broiling: Bacon can burn quickly under the broiler, so don’t walk away during this step!

Recipe Variations

Here are some creative ways to switch things up:

• Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese to the bundles before wrapping with bacon.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter.
• Sweet and Savory: Brush the bacon with a touch of honey or maple syrup for a caramelized glaze.
• Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, use turkey bacon instead of traditional pork bacon.

Storing and Reheating

Storing

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the bundles in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon rubbery.

Freezing

For make-ahead convenience, assemble the bundles and freeze them raw. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen at 425°F, adding 5-7 minutes to the cook time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use thick-cut bacon?

While you can use thick-cut bacon, it may not crisp up as quickly. Consider partially cooking it before wrapping the asparagus.

What’s the best way to clean asparagus?

Rinse under cold water and pat dry. Trim the woody ends by snapping or cutting them off.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes! Assemble the bundles a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Fresh asparagus works best for this recipe. Frozen asparagus may release too much moisture, making the bacon soggy.

Conclusion

Garlic Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to spice up your weeknight meals, these bundles are guaranteed to please. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out—I’d love to hear your feedback and see your photos! Don’t forget to tag me on social media so I can admire your creations.

Happy cooking! 🌟

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