Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

This recipe for Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is the simplest appetizer or side dish for any level of cook to make! With only 4 ingredients, it’s easy to wrap the asparagus in advance and cook it right before the party or meal starts.

If you’ve ever had bacon-wrapped asparagus this is a bit of an elevated twist on the classic recipe. This Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is one of my favorite gourmet appetizer recipes for any party and takes just minutes to assemble. I promise they are so addicting, my husband always says he could eat the whole tray!

If I’m hosting a lot of people, I actually wrap the asparagus in prosciutto the night before and store in the fridge. That way when it’s time to host, I can just sear them and let the rich and salty prosciutto flavor drift into the kitchen. If you love an easy appetizer, be sure to also try my Meatball Sliders and Pizza Dip.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• 4 ingredient appetizer. It really doesn’t get any easier, but the flavor with these is incredible.
• Perfect for any spread. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a fancy party, these will pair wonderfully with other menu items.
• Great for beginner cooks. If you are getting comfortable in the kitchen, this is your recipe! It takes minutes to make.

ingredients

Scroll Down to the Bottom of this Post for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Printable Recipe Card 

• Prosciutto: Make sure it’s very thinly sliced, it’s salty, smoky, and oh so delicious.
• Asparagus spears: Trim these before wrapping to remove the woody stems.
• Grated parmesan cheese: Adds extra richness and a hint of salt. You can also use Pecorino Romano.
• Olive oil: Cooking oil to help the parmesan crisp.
• Optional toppings: I’ve added a squeeze of fresh lemon juice as well as balsamic glaze for brightness and a hint of sweet flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Large Skillet

how to make prosciutto-wrapped asparagus

1. Lay the prosciutto slices in an even layer on a cutting board. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese.

2. Roll each spear with one slice of prosciutto, starting with the bottom and ending at the top. 

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, lay the spears flat on the pan and season with pepper. Rotate every 1-2 minutes until all sides are evenly caramelized and crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes. 

4. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining grated parmesan or desired toppings.

expert tips

• Be sure to remove the woody ends of the asparagus. They are tough and unpleasant to eat. My favorite tip to remove them is to naturally let the end snap off as a guide, then trim the remaining stalks to be the same length as the snapped stalk.
• If you want to bake the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, no worries! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake at 400ºF for 15 to 20 minutes, rotating halfway through. You may not get as much crispiness but it will still be flavorful.
• No need to pre-cook the asparagus! They cook in the prosciutto fat in the pan to make an extra flavorful bite.  
• Serve with a dipping sauce or just a drizzle of balsamic glaze or lemon juice. A mustard-based dipping sauce is wonderful for these!

storage

Store any leftover prosciutto-wrapped asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

I don’t recommend freezing the asparagus, as it will make the vegetable mushy once it thaws. But if you want to pre-wrap the stalks the day before the party, that works! Store them loosely covered in the fridge.

You can also sear the asparagus before a party and keep them warm in a 200ºF oven until it’s time to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

more easy appetizer recipes

• Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
• Nachos Supreme
• Bacon Wrapped Dates
• Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip