Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: A Mouthwatering Side Dish
Air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus combines the smoky bacon with tender asparagus spears, all seasoned with a sprinkle of garlic powder and black pepper. This easy side dish requires only minutes of prep and becomes an instant family favorite once it hits the dinner table.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take?
The total cook time in an air fryer is approximately 10 minutes at 400 degrees F.
What Type of Bacon Should I Use?
Both regular cut bacon and thick-cut bacon work well. The choice will influence cooking time; thick-cut bacon may require an extra couple of minutes.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can wrap the asparagus in bacon strips and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Tips and Tricks
- Single Layer is Best: For even cooking, place the bacon-wrapped asparagus spears in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Season Generously: Don’t forget to sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper for extra flavor.
- Rotate for Even Cooking: Halfway through, rotate the asparagus bundles for a golden brown finish on all sides.
Variations
- Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, switch to turkey bacon.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes and a drizzle of maple syrup before cooking.
Where to Serve
This delicious appetizer can grace the table at dinner parties or special occasions. It also pairs well as a side dish to main dish options like pork chops or grilled chicken.
Storage
Once cooked, place the bacon asparagus bundles in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
- Uneven Cooking: To ensure the bacon cooks evenly, avoid overlapping in the air fryer basket.
- Too Oily: If you find your bacon too greasy, place them on a wire rack or paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Tips for Making this Recipe with Kids
- Snapping Asparagus: Let the kids snap off the woody ends of the asparagus spears; it’s a fun task and teaches them about the texture of vegetables.
- Wrapping the Bacon: Kids can help wrap a slice of bacon around each fresh asparagus stalk.
Topping Options
- Parmesan Cheese: For a salty and cheesy finish, sprinkle some Parmesan over the bacon-wrapped asparagus.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy kick.
Why This Recipe Works
- Low Carb: A great side dish for those watching their carb intake.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this air fryer asparagus recipe is an easy recipe anyone can tackle.
- Full of Flavor: The mix of smoky bacon and fresh asparagus stalks seasoned with garlic powder and black pepper creates a flavorful experience.
- Versatile: Whether it’s a family dinner or important guests, this bacon asparagus recipe works for a variety of occasions and pairs wonderfully with a multitude of main dishes.
Incorporate this air fryer bacon-wrapped asparagus into your culinary repertoire this asparagus season. You’ll find all the ingredients easily at local grocery stores, and it might just become your favorite way to enjoy this vitamin C-rich vegetable.
So the next time you’re pondering side dishes, you know what to go for. Enjoy, and don’t forget to leave a star rating!
What are some more amazing air fryer appetizers to try?
- Easy and Flavorful Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers Recipe
- Easy Air Fryer Pretzel Dogs
- Easy and Healthy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
These flavorful bacon wrapped asparagus are great for appetizers or even game day!
Ingredients
- 2 bunches of asparagus (48-64 stems)
- 1 lb bacon, any flavor you like.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cut the ends off each stem of asparagus, about 1/2”-1”, making every stem a uniform height. This part of the asparagus is the tough woody part just underground at the root.
- Arrange the asparagus into groups of 3-4 stems.
- Wrap each group in one slice of bacon leaving stems exposed at both ends for aesthetics and functionality for handling.
- Place the wrapped stems in the air fryer basket and season generously with garlic and pepper.
- Cook at 400°f for 15-18 minutes depending on the desired cook of the bacon. I like my bacon charred.
- Remove wrapped asparagus from the air fryer and let rest. This allows the bacon to finish cooking as it cools and seals in those much-desired fats
- Enjoy as a snack or with your favorite protein.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 536Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 25gCholesterol 112mgSodium 1911mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 39g
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