Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a delightful dish that brings together the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon and the tender, flavorful bite of asparagus — so it's a surefire hit for the whole family! This savory asparagus recipe is not only mouthwatering but also surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
We're diving into the simple, step-by-step instructions to create this delectable dish at home, along with essential tips and tricks to guarantee the best results every time. Get ready to impress with this savory, crowd-pleasing treat.
Bacon-wrapped asparagus: The ideal family dish
Why choose bacon-wrapped asparagus for your next family meal? It's a crowd-pleaser that caters to everyone! This dish combines irresistible crispy bacon with the fresh, nutritious appeal of grilled asparagus. Asparagus is rich in vitamins and nutrients, while bacon adds a good dose of protein, making it both tasty and nutritious. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it's ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. It pairs beautifully with main courses like steak or chicken and can be customized to suit your family's tastes, ensuring it's a hit at your next meal or get-together.
Essential ingredients and easy steps for perfect bacon-wrapped asparagus
Serves: 6
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20-25 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon.
- 24 spears asparagus, trimmed.
- 2 Tbs. butter, melted.
- 2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar.
- 1 garlic clove, minced.
- ½ tsp. salt.
- ½ tsp. black pepper.
- Lemon zest, to taste.
How to make delicious bacon-wrapped asparagus at home
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt and black pepper. Mix well.
- Step 3: Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears.
- Step 4: Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around one asparagus spear, starting from the base and spiraling up to the tip. Repeat for all of your asparagus spears.
- Step 5: Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Step 6: Brush the butter mixture evenly over the asparagus and bacon wraps.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Step 8: Remove from the oven and transfer the bacon-wrapped asparagus to a serving platter.
- Step 9: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle lemon zest over the top to add a fresh, citrusy note.
- Step 10: Serve warm and enjoy!
Ready to get started? You can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Tips and tricks for the most delicious results
Considering the following helpful hints as you jump in for the best results:
- Experiment with different bacon: If you're looking for a different flavor profile for this easy bacon and asparagus recipe, try a different type of bacon. While a classic cut option is sure to do the trick, you can also opt for thick cut bacon, like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon, for a richer and sweeter taste. Or, choose a pre-seasoned option with your family's preferred flavors, such as Hatfield® Cherrywood Smoked Extra Thick Cut Bacon. Each variety brings its own unique character to the asparagus.
- Go crazy with seasonings: Don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Alongside the basics of salt and pepper, consider adding garlic powder, smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor. You might also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese before baking for a savory, cheesy crust.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze: After baking, don't forget to add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sophisticated touch. The sweet and tangy glaze complements the smoky bacon and fresh asparagus, enhancing the overall taste of this family dish.
- Pair with dipping sauces: Elevate your bacon-wrapped asparagus by serving it with a dipping sauce. Aioli, with its creamy texture and garlic flavor, or ranch dressing, with its tangy and herby notes, can add an extra dimension to each bite.
- Serve with delicious sides: This dish pairs well with plenty of sides — so your options are essentially limitless. Consider serving this bacon and asparagus recipe with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes or sautéed mushrooms. These sides not only complement the flavors of the bacon-wrapped asparagus but also create a well-rounded meal for your guests or loved ones.
Addressing bacon-wrapped asparagus FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions you might run into in the process:
How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking?
To keep bacon from unraveling, you can secure the ends with toothpicks before baking. Make sure that the bacon is tightly wrapped around each asparagus stalk and arrange the spears seam-side down on the baking or cookie sheet. That way, the bacon stays in place and crisps up just right.
Can I prepare bacon-wrapped asparagus in advance?
Yes! If you have a busy week ahead or won't have time to make this recipe before your next get-together, you can prep bacon-wrapped asparagus ahead of time. Simply assemble the spears, wrap them in bacon and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before baking for even cooking and the best results.
How long will my leftovers last?
Lucky enough to end up with leftovers? Make the most of what you have left by storing bacon asparagus spears in an airtight container and placing them in a fridge for up to three to four days. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to retain the bacon's crispiness.
Are there other ways to prepare this recipe?
Absolutely! You can grill bacon-wrapped asparagus for a smoky flavor or even use an air fryer or toaster oven for a quicker, crispier result. Both methods provide a delicious twist on the classic oven-baked version.
What are recipe variations to try?
When it comes to bacon asparagus recipe variations, you can't really go wrong. For example, you might try adding a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking for a sweet touch, or wrap the asparagus with prosciutto for a different flavor profile. And feel free to experiment with different seasonings or cheese to customize the dish to your loved one's preferences.
What type of asparagus is best for bacon-wrapped asparagus?
For the best results, choose a medium-thick, fresh asparagus bundle. Thin spears can become too delicate in the cooking process, while extra thick ones might not cook evenly. Medium-thick spears will offer the nice balance of tenderness and crunch that you're looking for.
Savoring bacon-wrapped asparagus with quality ingredients from Hatfield®
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for bacon lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike — making it a great choice for family meals. And with Hatfield® pork products, you can ensure the highest quality for your loved ones. Discover premium, pre-seasoned bacon options that elevate your dish with rich flavor and texture. Remember, quality ingredients are crucial for creating meals that not only taste amazing but also keep your family safe and bring joy to the table. Hatfield® delivers on this promise, allowing you to savor every bite with confidence.
To bring this recipe to life, head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield pork products today.
