Whip up a batch of these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and discover how easy and delicious they are! With crispy bacon bits and perfectly cooked sprouts, this recipe is quick, effortless, and absolutely irresistible for any occasion.
Looking for something quick and delicious? You’ve got to try my air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe. Just toss in some sprouts, bacon, a pinch of salt, and pepper, and you’re set.
It’s super easy and packed with flavor.
Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it only takes 5 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. Simple ingredients, but the result? Absolutely delicious.
Let’s jump in!
🥰 Why You Will Love This Recipe?
- Takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for your busy schedule.
- Adjust the crispiness of your Brussels sprouts or add a splash of lemon or vinegar to match your taste.
- The air fryer cooks quickly and reduces the need for extra oil, making this a healthier choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture.
🏆 Expert Tips. What to Pay Attention To?
- Pick the Best Brussels Sprouts: I always go for small to medium ones that are firm and bright green. They’re sweeter and cook more evenly. I trim the ends and peel off any yellow leaves for the best flavor and consistency.
- Don’t Crowd The Basket: In the air fryer, I make sure they’re not too packed. They need space to get that all-around crispiness. I cook in batches if I have to.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: If the air fryer needs it, I preheat. It makes sure the Brussels sprouts start crisping right when they go in.
🥘 Ingredients and Substitutes
- Brussels Sprouts. These are key for that nutty, crispy bite. Out of sprouts? Broccoli florets are a fine swap, though they’re a bit milder.
- Bacon. It adds a smoky depth and helps crisp everything up. No bacon? Diced pancetta or turkey bacon will do, just note that turkey bacon is leaner.
- Salt. It brings out the flavors of the sprouts and bacon. Watching your sodium? Try a dash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of kosher salt instead.
- Black Pepper. This gives a little heat and balances the dish. For a different kick, swap in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
👩🍳 Step-by-step Directions
First, I wash the Brussels sprouts and let them dry completely.
While they’re drying, I chop the bacon into chunky cubes—big enough so they don’t burn. I toss the sprouts and bacon into the air fryer basket, then sprinkle on some salt and pepper.
I give everything a good mix and set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
At the halfway point, I pull out the basket and give it a stir to make sure everything cooks evenly, then let it finish up.
I serve them warm, right next to a juicy steak. Perfect combo!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- I love adding a balsamic reduction to the brussels sprouts. It brings out their sweetness and adds a tangy contrast to the smoky bacon. It’s a simple touch that feels a bit fancy.
- For a more substantial meal, I toss the brussels sprouts and bacon over quinoa or farro. These grains are nutty and hearty, making the dish more satisfying.
- For brunch, I top the brussels sprouts with a poached or fried egg. The creamy yolk ties everything together beautifully.
- This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. The smoky flavors sync up nicely, and the light brussels sprouts keep everything balanced.
♻️ Answering Your Questions:
Can I Make This Recipe Without an Air Fryer?
Absolutely. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy this dish by using your oven. Preheat it to 400°F (around 200°C) and spread the brussels sprouts and bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast until the brussels sprouts are crispy and the bacon is cooked through, typically around 20-25 minutes. Just remember to toss halfway through for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts and Bacon?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (around 175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What Can I Do With Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
If you have raw brussels sprouts left over, consider using them in other recipes throughout the week. They’re great shredded in salads, sautéed with garlic for a side dish, or roasted with other vegetables. Cooked leftovers can be added to grain bowls, omelets, or reheated as a quick side for another meal.
📋 Recipe Card:
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients
- 2 cups Brussels Sprouts
- 1 cup Bacon
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Instructions
- Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and allow them to dry.2 cups Brussels Sprouts
- Cut the bacon into cubes that are not too small to prevent burning. Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon in the air fryer basket.1 cup Bacon, 2 cups Brussels Sprouts
- Season with salt and pepper according to taste and mix well.Salt, Black Pepper
Quick Note
I highly recommend reading the entire recipe to find more tips and notes about this recipe. Read Full Recipe ⇑
Notes
- If you’ve got smaller brussels sprouts, they might cook faster. I start checking them a few minutes early to make sure they don’t overcook.
- Cut the bacon into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. It makes every bite a good mix of crisp bacon and tender brussels sprouts.
- Not all air fryers need preheating. I check the manual for my model to see if it’s necessary.
- If the sprouts start to stick, I use a light spritz of cooking spray that’s safe for air fryers.
- Halfway through cooking, I give the basket a good shake. It helps get the sprouts evenly browned and crispy.
Nutrition Estimates
Loved this recipe or tweaked it to make it your own? Please take a moment to rate it and leave a comment below! Your feedback helps others and I’d love to hear how you enjoyed the dish or any variations you tried.
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