Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

Introduction

In recent years, the air fryer has become one of the most popular kitchen appliances worldwide—and for good reason. It allows home cooks to prepare crispy, flavorful meals using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. Among the many dishes that shine in an air fryer, Brussels sprouts and bacon stand out as a perfect combination of nutrition, texture, and irresistible flavor.

Brussels sprouts have long suffered from an unfair reputation as a bland or bitter vegetable, often overcooked and underseasoned in traditional preparations. However, when prepared correctly—especially in an air fryer—they transform into tender, caramelized bites with crispy edges and a naturally sweet, nutty flavor. Pairing them with bacon elevates the dish even further, adding smoky richness, saltiness, and satisfying crunch.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is more than just a side dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can complement a wide range of meals, from roasted chicken and steak to holiday feasts and casual weeknight dinners. It can also stand alone as a low-carb snack, appetizer, or even a light main course when paired with eggs or grains.

Another reason this dish has gained such popularity is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a dish that tastes restaurant-quality while fitting seamlessly into busy lifestyles. Whether you’re new to air frying or an experienced home cook looking to expand your repertoire, this recipe offers consistent results and endless customization options.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about making perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon. From selecting the best ingredients to mastering cooking times, seasoning variations, and serving ideas, this comprehensive guide will help you achieve crispy, flavorful results every time.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• 1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts

• 6–8 slices of bacon (thick-cut preferred)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, depending on bacon fat)

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar

• Red pepper flakes

• Honey or maple syrup

• Lemon juice or lemon zest

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts

Start by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Proper drying is essential to ensure crispiness in the air fryer.

Trim off the tough stem ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise. If some sprouts are particularly large, quarter them to ensure even cooking.

Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Lightly drizzle them with olive oil if desired, especially if your bacon is lean. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated.

Preparing the Bacon

Cut the bacon into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch strips. Thick-cut bacon works best because it holds its texture and doesn’t overcook too quickly in the air fryer.

The bacon will render fat as it cooks, which coats the Brussels sprouts and contributes to their crispy, savory flavor. This eliminates the need for excessive oil while enhancing taste.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer
   Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve consistent browning and crisp edges.

2. Combine Ingredients
   Add the chopped bacon to the bowl of seasoned Brussels sprouts. Toss again to distribute the bacon evenly throughout the vegetables.

3. Arrange in the Basket
   Place the mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.

4. Air Fry
   Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through cooking. This ensures even crisping and prevents sticking.

5. Check for Doneness
   The Brussels sprouts should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, while the bacon should be fully cooked and lightly crispy.

6. Finish and Serve
   Remove from the air fryer and immediately add optional toppings such as Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overcrowd: Space allows hot air to circulate properly, ensuring crispiness.

• Adjust seasoning after cooking: Bacon adds salt, so taste before adding more.

• Shake halfway through: This prevents burning and promotes even cooking.

• Customize the texture: For extra crispiness, cook an additional 2–3 minutes.

Flavor Variations

One of the best things about Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is how easy it is to customize.

Sweet and Savory
Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish.

Spicy Kick
Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper before cooking.

Cheesy Version
Top with freshly grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar while still hot.

Balsamic Style
Finish with balsamic glaze or toss with a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar for tangy depth.

Nutritional Benefits

Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They support immune health, digestion, and overall wellness. Bacon, while indulgent, provides protein and enhances satiety when used in moderation.

By using an air fryer, this dish significantly reduces added fats compared to pan-frying or roasting with excess oil, making it a more balanced choice.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon pair beautifully with:

• Grilled or roasted chicken

• Steak or pork chops

• Salmon or other fish

• Holiday meals such as Thanksgiving or Christmas

• Breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs or omelets

They also work well as a topping for salads, grain bowls, or pasta.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is a recipe that perfectly demonstrates how simple ingredients and modern cooking methods can transform everyday vegetables into something truly special. The air fryer’s ability to create crispy textures while preserving tenderness makes it the ideal tool for this dish, while bacon adds depth, richness, and universal appeal.

Whether you’re serving this recipe as a side dish for a family dinner, preparing it for a holiday gathering, or enjoying it as a flavorful snack, it delivers consistent results with minimal effort. Its adaptability allows you to tailor the flavors to suit your preferences, making it a staple recipe you’ll return to again and again.

With its balance of nutrition, flavor, and convenience, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Bacon proves that vegetables don’t have to be boring. They can be bold, satisfying, and crave-worthy—especially when cooked the right way.

Once you try this recipe, it’s likely to become a permanent favorite in your air fryer rotation, reminding you that great food doesn’t need to be complicated—just thoughtfully prepared.