Keto Bacon Wrapped Asparagus (Air Fryer)

Fun to make and even better to eat, this one has real wow factor for how simple it actually is. Keto bacon wrapped asparagus in the air fryer is smoky, salty, and crispy every time.

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Use regular cut bacon here, not thick cut, thick bacon just will not get properly crispy in the time the asparagus needs.

Fresh asparagus is what you need here, frozen and thawed just will not hold up the same way.

Chef Jenn’s Take on Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Use regular cut bacon specifically, not thick cut, it just will not get properly crispy in the time the asparagus needs.

Snap the tough, woody ends off the asparagus rather than cutting them, hold the top under the brushy part and snap the bottom off with your other hand. Clean it thoroughly, either running each spear under cold water for about 20 seconds, or swishing trimmed asparagus in a bowl of water and repeating until it runs clear. Bundle 2 to 3 spears together, or 4 if they are thin, and wrap with bacon starting at the bottom and spiraling toward the top, but do not wrap the brushy tips themselves. Cook in a single layer, crowding the basket means the bacon will not get crispy.

Asparagus thickness varies a lot, and thinner does not mean younger, I actually prefer it on the thicker side for this recipe. Peppered bacon makes a nice flavor twist if you want to switch things up.

This can be made ahead too, par-cook it, then finish crisping the bacon just before serving. Use nitrate-free bacon if you are doing paleo.

What You’ll Love About Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

• Can be made ahead, just finish crisping the bacon before serving.
• Smoky, salty, and crispy, with genuine wow factor for how simple it is.
• Works as a snack, a side dish, or even a light meal.

Ingredients

• Asparagus – Fresh, trimmed and cleaned. Frozen won’t hold up as well.
• Bacon – Regular cut, not thick cut. Peppered bacon works for a flavor twist. Nitrate-free for paleo.
• Avocado oil – For tossing.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Scroll down for the full recipe card with exact measurements and printable instructions.

Toss the trimmed and cleaned asparagus with the oil, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Bundle 2 to 3 asparagus spears together, or 4 if they are thin.

Wrap each bundle in bacon, starting at the bottom and spiraling up toward the top, without covering the brushy tips. Place the bundles in a single layer in the air fryer.

Air fry at 400°F for about 10 to 14 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Serve and enjoy.

Make It A Meal

This pairs beautifully with something meaty, like Garlic Steak & Mushrooms, or with Butter & Herb Turkey Breast, also made in the air fryer.

For more asparagus recipes, Asparagus & Green Beans with Lemon & Pecans and Sheet Pan Salmon & Asparagus are both worth adding to the rotation.

Storage

This is best fresh. If you do have leftovers, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container and keep in the fridge. This does not freeze well, asparagus turns limp and watery once thawed, and the bacon will not stay crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Want Even More Keto Deliciousness?

I’m always trying new recipes, but the following are some of my all-time favorites:

• Grilled veggies
• This Southern chicken casserole
• Meaty and cheesy Parmigiana
• Beefy minestrone soup

And if you need help counting carbs, this net carb calculator will help!