Asparagus Roll-Ups

Let’s face it, everyone loves appetizers. They turn any gathering into a party. And these asparagus roll-ups are everything a finger food should be: fun, flavorful and visually impressive. Cheesy and savory, they feature smoky bacon and tender asparagus wrapped in a soft blanket of bread. These asparagus roll-ups make a delightful addition to holiday parties and tailgates, or a satisfying side at home when you’re making one of the best soup recipes.

Ingredients for Asparagus Roll-Ups

• Asparagus
• Sandwich bread
• Cream cheese
• Crumbled bacon
• Minced chives
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Blanch the asparagus

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large saucepan, bring 1/2 inch of water to a boil. Add the asparagus, then cover and boil for three minutes. Drain the pan and immediately place the asparagus in ice water. Drain again, pat the asparagus dry and set it aside.

Step 2: Assemble the roll-ups

Flatten the bread with a rolling pin. Combine the cream cheese, bacon and chives, then spread 1 tablespoon of the mixture on each slice of bread. Top that with an asparagus spear. Roll up the bread tightly and place the rolls, seam side down, on a greased baking sheet. Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle them with the Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Slice and bake

Cut the roll-ups in half and place the baking sheet into the oven. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly browned.

How to Store Asparagus Roll-Ups

Store leftover asparagus rolls in airtight produce containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Leftovers can be served cold or reheated in a 350° oven or air fryer until the bread becomes warm and crisp. Due to the cream cheese filling, we don’t recommend freezing these, because the dairy tends to separate as it thaws.

Asparagus Roll-Up Tips

Can I use something other than sandwich bread to make asparagus roll-ups?

You sure can. Flour tortillas are a fantastic substitute—especially when they’re homemade tortillas. Another option is rolling up the asparagus spears in phyllo dough or puff pastry for a showstopping, pastry-like crust.

How can I bring a bolder flavor to asparagus roll-ups?

If you want to amp up the flavor of these rolled treats, try swapping the cream cheese for goat cheese. The tangy profile pairs well with the grassy asparagus and smoky bacon. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like dill, chives or thyme, or even a pinch of lemon zest, before rolling will brighten up these bites.

Is there a dipping sauce I can use with asparagus rolls?

Absolutely! There are so many different flavor options when it comes to dipping sauces that will enhance an asparagus roll. Try making a nutty satay sauce, creamy garlic aioli, whipped feta dip or cool tzatziki sauce. For even more options, check out our recipes for pretzel dips.