Combine minced garlic in a small bowl with 3 Tbsp olive oil and set aside while preparing your asparagus and gathering the rest of your ingredients.

Break off the fibrous ends of your asparagus by holding the base end and snapping it wherever it snaps. Discard the ends. I like this method most because it ensures that you won't have any fibrous ends. You can also use a knife to cut the ends off about 1" up from the base.

Transfer asparagus to a rimmed baking sheet then drizzle and toss it with the garlic oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt & pepper and bake at 400°F for 13-18 mins (depending on the thickness of asparagus) or until lightly browned and easily pierced with a fork.

While baking, saute 6 strips of bacon, drain on paper towels then coarsely chop. Serve asparagus warm and sprinkle the top with bacon.