Keto Oven-Baked Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Crispy bacon wrapped around tender asparagus spears creates an irresistible side dish that's perfect for special dinners or holiday meals. Each bundle is seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and optional Parmesan cheese before roasting at high heat until the bacon becomes golden and slightly crispy while the asparagus remains tender-crisp. This elegant appetizer or side dish takes just 15 minutes to cook and combines the smoky richness of bacon with the fresh, earthy flavor of asparagus. The high-heat roasting method ensures the bacon renders properly while keeping the vegetables from becoming mushy.
Ingredients
- ½ pound sliced bacon, cut in half
- 2 bundles asparagus spears, washed and trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, or avocado oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 420 degrees F
- 2
Rinse the asparagus and trim the stem end
- 3
Place asparagus in baking dish and drizzle with olive oil
- 4
Add minced garlic, salt, pepper and Parmesan cheese
- 5
Toss asparagus with kitchen tongs to coat evenly with seasonings and oil
- 6
Cut bacon strips in half
- 7
Gather 5-6 asparagus stems together and wrap a piece of bacon around each bundle towards the center
- 8
Continue with remaining asparagus and arrange in baking dish in single layer seam side down
- 9
Cook until asparagus is tender and bacon is fully cooked and slightly crispy
- 10
Serve immediately
Tips
Choose asparagus spears of similar thickness so they cook evenly and are easier to bundle together.
Make sure bacon seam is on the bottom to prevent unwrapping during cooking and ensure even browning.
Don't overcrowd the baking dish - asparagus needs space for the bacon to crisp properly.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes to re-crisp bacon.
Assemble bundles up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add 2-3 minutes to cooking time if cooking from cold.
Serve immediately while bacon is crispy. Can be kept warm in low oven for up to 30 minutes.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip trimming asparagus ends to avoid tough, woody texture
Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy asparagus and burnt bacon
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use thick asparagus spears?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes and ensure spears are similar thickness for even cooking.
What if my bacon isn't crispy enough?
Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, or finish under broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven to restore bacon crispiness.