If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and downright delicious appetizer, then let me tell you about my 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus! Seriously, this dish is a game-changer. You get the tender, vibrant asparagus wrapped in crispy, savory bacon, and it all comes together in just 15 minutes. I love making this for gatherings because it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but packs a ton of flavor. The air fryer makes it even easier, giving you that perfect crunch without the hassle of frying. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be whipping it up for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus! It’s super simple, and I bet you already have most of these ingredients at home.
- 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound, look for bright green, firm spears)
- 8 slices bacon (thick-cut works best for that crispy goodness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin for rich flavor)
- Salt to taste (I like kosher salt for a nice crunch)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked if you can, it makes a difference!)
With just these few ingredients, you’re on your way to a mouthwatering appetizer that everyone will love! Don’t forget to check the asparagus for any tough ends before you start prepping. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare *15 Minute Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus*
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing this tasty dish! Trust me, it’s super straightforward and totally satisfying to make.
Preheat Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it helps to ensure that the bacon gets nice and crispy while the asparagus cooks to tender perfection. So, don’t skip this part—it makes all the difference!
Prepare Asparagus
Next up, let’s prepare that beautiful asparagus. Start by trimming the ends of each spear—about an inch or so should do. This is important because the ends can be tough and woody, and we want only the tender, tasty parts. Just give them a gentle snap, and they’ll break naturally at the right spot. Easy peasy!
Wrap Asparagus with Bacon
Now for the fun part—wrapping! Take a slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting from the bottom and spiraling up to the top. Make sure to overlap the bacon slightly to ensure it sticks together while cooking. If you find the bacon slipping, try using a toothpick to secure it, but usually, it holds its shape just fine!
Season and Drizzle
Once your asparagus is all wrapped up, it’s time to season! Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the bacon-wrapped beauties, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps the bacon crisp up nicely. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really enhances the overall taste of the dish!
Air Frying Process
Now, let’s get cooking! Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in a single layer in your air fryer basket. It’s crucial to not overcrowd them, or they won’t cook evenly. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they’re crispy all around. Keep an eye on them towards the end—once the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender, you’re ready to enjoy this amazing dish!
Tips for Success
To make sure your 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips that I swear by! These little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your dish to new heights.
- Choose the Right Asparagus: Look for thinner spears if you want them to cook faster and become tender more quickly. Thicker asparagus may need an extra minute or two in the air fryer, so just keep an eye on them!
- Use the Right Bacon: I really recommend using thick-cut bacon for this recipe. It holds up well during cooking and gives you that satisfying crunch. If you prefer turkey bacon, it can work too, but you might need to adjust your cooking time as it tends to crisp up a bit differently.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give each piece of bacon-wrapped asparagus some space in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so make sure they’re in a single layer. If you have a lot, consider cooking them in batches!
- Check for Doneness: Since air fryer models can vary, keep an eye on your asparagus towards the end of the cooking time. If the bacon isn’t crispy yet, feel free to add an extra minute or so, but be cautious not to overcook the asparagus.
- Let Them Cool: Once they’re done, let your bacon-wrapped asparagus sit for a minute before diving in. This little resting time allows the bacon to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle!
By following these tips, you’re sure to impress everyone with your deliciously crispy and tender bacon-wrapped asparagus! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values for one serving of my 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus. Keep in mind that these are approximations and can vary based on the specific brands and sizes of the ingredients you use.
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
This dish is not only a tasty appetizer but also packs a decent amount of protein and fiber, thanks to the asparagus. Plus, with the crispy bacon, it’s a satisfying treat too! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re indulging in something that’s both delicious and nutritious!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of bacon?
Absolutely! While I love the classic flavor of regular bacon, you can definitely swap it out for turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it cooks a bit differently and may not get as crispy as pork bacon. You could also experiment with flavored bacon, like peppered or maple, to add a fun twist! Just make sure to adjust your cooking time if you’re using a different kind, as they can vary in thickness and fat content.
What can I serve with bacon wrapped asparagus?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! These delicious bacon wrapped asparagus spears make a fantastic appetizer on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing salad, like a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. They also go great with grilled meats, like steak or chicken, or even as part of a charcuterie board with cheeses and olives. You could even serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, like ranch or a spicy aioli, for an extra flavor kick!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While I recommend enjoying these bacon wrapped asparagus fresh out of the air fryer for the best texture, you can definitely prep them ahead of time! Just wrap the asparagus in bacon, drizzle with olive oil, and season them. Then, store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. When you’re ready to cook, pop them in the air fryer straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get that crispy texture back. Enjoy every bite, even the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re still on the fence about trying my 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus, let me share why this dish is a must-make! It’s not just about the delicious flavors; there are so many reasons to love this quick and easy recipe!
- Quick and Easy: In just 15 minutes, you can have a gourmet appetizer ready to impress your friends and family. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!
- Crispy and Tender: The air fryer gives you perfectly crispy bacon while keeping the asparagus tender and vibrant. It’s a delightful contrast in textures!
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have everything you need right at home. No fancy shopping required!
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative! You can play around with different seasonings or types of bacon to suit your taste.
- Healthy Indulgence: This dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying the savory goodness of bacon. It’s a win-win!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fancy party, these bacon-wrapped asparagus spears are always a hit!
Trust me, once you make this dish, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. It’s a delightful addition to your recipe collection!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers of my 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus (which I doubt, because they’re so good!), here’s how to store and reheat them to keep that delicious crunch intact.
First, let the asparagus cool completely before storing. Once they’re cool, place the bacon-wrapped spears in an airtight container. I recommend using parchment paper between layers if you have a lot, to help prevent them from sticking together. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
When it’s time to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is to pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore that crispy texture, making them just as delightful as when they were freshly cooked. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use a conventional oven at the same temperature, but be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid drying them out.
And there you go! Easy peasy storage and reheating tips to make sure you savor every last bite of these tasty treats!
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15 Minute Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus That Delights
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Quick and easy bacon-wrapped asparagus made in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the ends of the asparagus.
- Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon.
- Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped asparagus.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Remove when bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the asparagus.
- For extra flavor, marinate asparagus in garlic before wrapping.
- Serve immediately for best results.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: air fryer, bacon, asparagus, quick recipe, easy appetizer
