Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment or foil for easier cleanup.
Prep the asparagus: Rinse and pat dry. Snap or trim the woody ends (about 1–2 inches).
Dry spears help the bacon crisp.
Season the spears: Toss asparagus with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Coat lightly and evenly.
Bundle or single-wrap: You can wrap 3–5 spears together with one slice of bacon, or wrap each spear individually. Bundles cook faster and are easier to flip.
Wrap tightly: Start at the thick end and spiral the bacon up toward the tips, slightly overlapping as you go.
Place seam-side down on the sheet pan.
Give them space: Arrange pieces with a bit of room between them. Crowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
Bake: Roast for 12–15 minutes, then check. Flip bundles if needed and continue for another 5–10 minutes, until the bacon is browned and the asparagus is tender.
Optional broil: For extra-crisp bacon, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Watch closely to avoid burning.
Finish and serve: Zest a little lemon over the top or squeeze lightly for brightness. Sprinkle with Parmesan if you like. Serve hot.