Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: 28 Minutes to Deliciousness

Name: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: 28 Minutes to Deliciousness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 4 slices of bacon, chopped or 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Optional: garlic powder, to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 15, 2025

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts (with Bacon or Olive Oil)

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Let me tell you, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are an absolute game changer! I mean, who would have thought these little green gems could be transformed into crispy, golden bites of deliciousness in just minutes? It’s like magic! Whether you go with crispy bacon for that smoky flavor or a drizzle of olive oil for a lighter touch, these sprouts are a must-try side dish that’ll impress anyone at your table. I love how versatile they are. You can easily adapt them to fit your mood or dietary preferences. Plus, they cook up so quickly in the air fryer, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Seriously, if you haven’t tried making Brussels sprouts this way yet, you’re missing out! Get ready to fall in love with this easy, delightful recipe that brings out the best flavors in these veggies. You won’t regret it!

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts (with Bacon or Olive Oil) - detail 1

Ingredients List

Getting the right ingredients is key to making delicious Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb Brussels sprouts: Look for firm, vibrant green sprouts. Trim the ends and slice them in half for even cooking.
4 slices of bacon: If you’re going for that smoky flavor, use thick-cut bacon for the best crispiness. Alternatively, you can use 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a healthier option that still packs a flavor punch.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste. Don’t be shy—these veggies love a good seasoning!
Optional: garlic powder: A sprinkle of this will elevate the flavors and give a lovely aroma!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Let’s dive into the process of making these crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts! Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping them up in no time. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to go!

Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is super important! This step ensures that your Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get that lovely crispy texture we all crave. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Cooking the Bacon

If you’re using bacon, let’s get that sizzling! Chop the bacon into small pieces and toss it into a skillet over medium heat. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s perfectly crispy. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn—nobody likes burnt bacon! Once it’s done, remove it from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel.

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts

Now, let’s give some love to those Brussels sprouts! Start by trimming the ends and cutting them in half. This helps them cook faster and allows for better seasoning. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with your olive oil (if you’re not using bacon), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure they’re well coated—this is where the flavor comes from! If you’re adding bacon, feel free to mix in the crispy pieces now for that smoky goodness.

Air Frying the Brussels Sprouts

Time to air fry! Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture all around. Air fry them for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to make sure they’re cooking evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy to the touch. It’s okay to peek at them a bit—just don’t open the basket too often!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Brussels sprouts are ready, serve them warm! They’re fantastic on their own, but if you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Yum!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts! Here’s why they’ll become a staple in your kitchen:

Quick Preparation: You can have these delicious sprouts on your table in just 28 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and made with fresh Brussels sprouts, this dish is as wholesome as it gets.
Versatile Flavors: Whether you choose crispy bacon or a drizzle of olive oil, you can easily adjust the flavor to suit your taste.
Crispy Texture: The air fryer ensures a wonderfully crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.

Tips for Success

To truly nail these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, I’ve got a few tips that’ll help you achieve the best results every time! First, remember that not all Brussels sprouts are created equal. Choose sprouts that are firm and vibrant—this makes a huge difference in taste and texture. If you find some sprouts are larger than others, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.

Don’t skip the preheating step! It’s essential for getting that crispy exterior. Also, be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give those little guys some space to breathe so they can crisp up nicely. If you’re cooking a larger batch, consider doing it in two rounds.

Lastly, play around with seasonings! A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add an exciting kick. Trust me, these little tweaks can take your Brussels sprouts from good to absolutely irresistible!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that the nutritional values for these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The information provided here is a general estimate and may not be completely precise. Always check product labels for the most accurate details!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts? You’re in the right place! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with tips to help you out.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but keep in mind that they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying for the best results.

How do I make them crispy?

If you want extra crispy Brussels sprouts, make sure they’re evenly coated in oil and not overcrowded in the air fryer basket. Also, shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps them crisp up evenly. A little patience goes a long way!

What can I serve with Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts?

These delightful Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of dishes! Try serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty quinoa salad. They also make a great addition to a holiday feast!

For more delicious air fryer recipes, check out this broccoli recipe or this cauliflower recipe!