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Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

crispy air fryer bacon-wrapped asparagus - featured image
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A quick and easy appetizer featuring tender asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a savory snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
  • 8–10 thinly sliced bacon strips
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Optional: lemon zest from 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Trim the woody ends off about 1 pound of fresh asparagus. Group 3-4 spears per bundle depending on thickness.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using, ensuring even coating.
  3. Lay out bacon slices on a clean surface. Cut in half if slices are extra long for easier wrapping.
  4. Wrap each bundle of asparagus with one strip of bacon, overlapping slightly and tucking ends under to secure.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Place bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook in batches if needed.
  7. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping bundles halfway through cooking to crisp evenly.
  8. Check that bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender but bright green. Cook an additional 1-2 minutes if needed.
  9. Optionally, sprinkle lemon zest over bundles immediately after cooking.
  10. Serve hot for best crispiness.

Notes

Use thin bacon slices for best crispiness and wrapping ease. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Flip bundles halfway through cooking. Adjust cooking time if using thick-cut bacon or thicker asparagus stalks. Optional toppings include grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese added in the last 2 minutes of cooking, or fresh herbs after cooking. Can be baked in a convection oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes if no air fryer is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped asparagus, air fryer appetizer, crispy bacon asparagus, easy appetizer, low carb snack, gluten free appetizer

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/crispy-air-fryer-bacon-wrapped-asparagus-recipe-easy-perfect-appetizer/