How to Make Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Every Time

Though mouthwatering and classy, bacon wrapped asparagus is actually very easy to prepare. Whether for an appetizer for a dinner party or a last-minute side for your grilled cod, it's sure to impress. Nothing can beat the savory crunch of bacon paired with that tender, slightly sweet bite of asparagus. These two were just meant to be BBQ buddies. Follow this simple guide, and you'll make perfect bacon-wrapped asparagus every time.

  • The Ingredients You Will Need
  • 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (about 20-24 stalks)
  • 10-12 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)

- Olive oil

- Freshly ground black pepper, or

- Garlic powder (optional)

- Toothpicks (optional but helpful)



Prep Your Asparagus

Start with a good wash of your asparagus first. Cut the woody ends about an inch or so from the bottom. What you want is firm, uniform-sized asparagus spears for even cooking. If there's a thick stalk, blanch it in boiling water for a minute or two to soften before grilling or roasting.



Wrap Them Up

Take one strip of bacon and wrap it around 2-3 spears of asparagus, starting at the base and spiraling upwards while slightly overlapping the bacon to keep it tight. If needed, secure the ends with a toothpick--especially if you're going to grill them. Thinly cut bacon would be ideal for this application since it crisps nicely without overcooking the asparagus.


Season Lightly

Wooden bundles on a baking sheet or grill pan, drizzle with a touch of olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor, but the bacon itself brings plenty of salty, smoky goodness.


Choose Your Cooking Method

There are a few great methods for cooking bacon-wrapped asparagus, depending on your gear and personal preferences.

  • Oven Method (Most Reliable and Simple)
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender.

Grill Method (Tastiest)

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  • Grill bundles for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to crisp the bacon on all sides.
  • Keep an eye on flare-ups-bacon fat can cause flames.
  • Grilling gives you the smokiest, charred flavor, reminiscent of other BBQ food such as grilled cod or chicken wings.

Let Them Rest

Once cooked, place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any grease, and let them rest for a few minutes. This gives the bacon plenty of time to crisp and ensures that you do not burn your fingers diving in.


Few Extra Tips for Perfection


No topping, no wrap: Chewy or sometimes undercooking bacon will result from having too many layers.

Use fresh firm asparagus: Floppy or old spears can't take the heat.

Pair smartly: Like grilled cod or steak as part of a balanced plate, bacon-wrapped asparagus fits right in next to them.


Ideas About Serving




These Bundles are almost adequate. They can be served as:

  • Appetizer with a zesty dipping sauce.
  • Side with grilled cod, brisket, or both.
  • Brunch treat topped with a poached egg.

And if you really want to get gourmet with your BBQ, listen to the advice of the pitmasters at Fatty Butts BBQ--where everything is wrapped in flavor and served with a smoky kick. One bite of their bacon-wrapped asparagus will tell you exactly why the dish is so popular.


Conclusive Thoughts

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a great way to add an air of gourmet to your plate, whether you grill outdoors or roast indoors. The combination of crispy bacon and tender asparagus will always please the crowd. Just a few ingredients and these step-by-step, foolproof, simple processes give perfect bacon-wrapped asparagus every time. So fire up that grill, prep your sides, and get ready to impress because this is one recipe that you'll use over and over again.


Read More: The Most Flavorful Smoked Spatchcock Turkey Ever

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