Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: 5 Irresistible Tips

Name: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: 5 Irresistible Tips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 1, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh boy, let me tell you about the deliciousness that is air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon! Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy sprout, with smoky, savory bits of bacon dancing alongside. It’s a flavor explosion that has become an absolute favorite in my house! I love how the air fryer gives these little veggie gems that golden-brown crunch without all the oil. Seriously, it’s like magic! Plus, they’re so easy to whip up—perfect for a weeknight side dish or even a fancy gathering. My kids, who used to wrinkle their noses at Brussels sprouts, now devour them like they’re candy! This dish has truly transformed our family dinners, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Trust me, once you taste these crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon, you’ll be hooked, too!

Ingredients List

1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
4 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare the Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first, you need to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it helps the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and achieve that lovely crispy texture. Just set it and let it work its magic while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Trust me, starting with a preheated air fryer makes a world of difference!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together your halved Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure every little sprout is coated well in that olive oil and seasoning—this is where the flavor really comes alive! I love using my hands for this step; it feels like a fun little cooking party! Just get in there and mix it all together until everything is evenly distributed. You’ll want those nice little pieces of bacon nestled amongst the sprouts for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Air Frying Process

Once everything is mixed up, it’s time to transfer the mixture into the air fryer basket. Be sure to spread them out in a single layer for even cooking. This is the secret to achieving that perfect crispiness! Set your timer for 15-20 minutes. Halfway through cooking, give the basket a good shake to toss everything around—this helps them cook evenly and prevents any sticking. You’ll hear that satisfying sizzle, and oh, the smell that fills your kitchen is just divine!

Step 4: Check for Crispiness

After about 15 minutes, start checking for doneness. They should be beautifully golden brown and crispy! If you’re like me and love extra crunch, feel free to let them cook a bit longer—just keep an eye on them. You can poke a sprout with a fork to check how tender they are on the inside, but you want that outer layer to be crispy and inviting. If they need a little more time, pop them back in and keep checking every couple of minutes. You’ll want them to reach that perfect balance of crispy and tender, and it’s totally worth the wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty Brussels sprouts ready in no time!
Easy Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means less mess, and cleanup is a breeze—just pop the basket in the dishwasher!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy sprouts and savory bacon creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
Healthy Twist: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying, so you get that crispy texture without the guilt!
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will love these! My kids now ask for Brussels sprouts as a snack—can you believe it?
Versatile Side Dish: These sprouts pair perfectly with almost any main course, making them a go-to side for any meal.

Tips for Success

Alright, let me share some of my favorite tips to help you nail these air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon every single time! Trust me, a few small adjustments can make a big difference.

Adjust Cooking Times

Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on your sprouts as they cook. If yours tends to run hotter, you might need to cut back on the cooking time. I usually check them around the 12-minute mark just to be safe. Don’t worry if they need a little extra time; just keep shaking the basket and checking until they’re perfectly crispy!

Experiment with Seasonings

Feel free to play around with the seasonings! A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add a lovely kick if you’re in the mood for something spicy. And if you’re a cheese lover like me, consider adding some grated parmesan or crumbled feta in the last couple of minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish. It’s heavenly!

Try Different Bacon Types

While I love using classic bacon, you can switch it up with turkey bacon or even pancetta if you’re feeling fancy. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of bacon you choose, so keep an eye on it!

Batch Cooking

If you’re serving a crowd, you might want to cook in batches. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. Trust me, it’s better to make two smaller batches than one giant one. Plus, that means you’ll get to enjoy the delicious smell twice!

Don’t Skip the Shake

This is crucial! Shaking the basket halfway through not only helps to ensure even cooking, but it also gives you that extra crispy texture. So don’t skip this step, or you might end up with some soggy sprouts!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to serving up the most amazing air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon! It’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate, right? Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:

Calories: 200
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 350mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 8g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use. But one thing’s for sure—these tasty little bites deliver flavor without weighing you down! Enjoy guilt-free indulgence while savoring every crunchy, savory bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe! Just keep in mind that they might need a little longer in the air fryer since they’re frozen. Make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This will help them crisp up beautifully, just like fresh ones. Trust me, even with frozen sprouts, you can still achieve that delicious crispy texture alongside the savory bacon!

What can I serve with air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon?

These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon make a fantastic side dish and pair beautifully with a variety of main courses! Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, or even a juicy steak. They also work great with a hearty pasta dish or as part of a festive holiday spread. The smoky flavor from the bacon complements so many dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which I doubt because they’re that good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to get them crispy again. You can also toss them in a hot skillet for a quick reheating option. Just avoid the microwave if you want to keep that lovely crunch!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got these irresistible air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with! Trust me, these crispy little gems are so versatile that they’ll elevate any meal. Here are some delicious ideas that pair beautifully:

Grilled Chicken: The smoky bacon complements the juicy, seasoned chicken perfectly. Whether it’s grilled, roasted, or fried, these Brussels sprouts will bring a delightful crunch to your plate!
Roast Pork Tenderloin: The flavors of the savory pork and crispy sprouts create a match made in heaven. Add a sweet glaze to the pork, and you’ve got a winning combination!
Steak: A beautifully cooked steak with these Brussels sprouts is pure bliss. The richness of the beef pairs wonderfully with the savory, crunchy sprouts.
Salmon: For a lighter option, serve alongside a perfectly seared salmon fillet. The freshness of the fish balances out the earthy flavors of the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
Pasta Dishes: Toss them in with your favorite pasta! They add a fantastic texture and flavor to creamy or tomato-based sauces, making your dish even more satisfying.
Holiday Feasts: These Brussels sprouts are a fantastic addition to any festive table. They bring color and flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser during holiday gatherings!

No matter what you choose to pair them with, these air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon are sure to steal the show and leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect meal!

Equipment Needed

To whip up these delicious air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools that make the process smooth and easy. Here’s what I recommend:

Air Fryer: This is the star of the show! A good quality air fryer is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture without all the oil. Make sure to choose one with a spacious basket for even cooking.
Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is key for combining your Brussels sprouts, bacon, and seasonings. I love using a glass or stainless steel bowl because it’s easy to clean and keeps everything visible.
Cutting Board: You’ll need a sturdy cutting board to halve your Brussels sprouts and chop the bacon. A good cutting board makes prep work a breeze!
Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is a must for easily cutting through the Brussels sprouts and bacon. It’ll save you time and effort in the kitchen.
Measuring Spoons: Don’t forget your measuring spoons! They’ll help you accurately measure out olive oil, garlic powder, and any other seasonings you want to use.
Spatula or Tongs: Use a spatula or tongs to toss the Brussels sprouts and bacon in the mixing bowl and to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps ensure everything cooks evenly!

With these simple tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create the most mouthwatering air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon. Happy cooking!