Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Brussel Sprouts
Craving a side dish that’s equal parts savory, crispy, and downright irresistible? These Air Fryer Bacon Brussel Sprouts combine the smoky goodness of bacon with tender, caramelized Brussel sprouts for a quick and flavorful dish.
Using the air fryer, this recipe delivers perfectly crispy results in under 20 minutes, making it a game-changer for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.
This easy recipe highlights the rich, savory taste of pork bacon paired with the earthy sweetness of air-fried Brussel sprouts.
Recipe Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices Minnesota pork bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a tangy finish)
Air Fryer Bacon Brussel Sprouts Instructions
- Prep the Brussel Sprouts: Rinse the Brussel sprouts under cold water. Trim the tough ends and remove any yellow outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the Sprouts: Drizzle the olive oil over the Brussel sprouts. Sprinkle with garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring the sprouts are well-seasoned.
- Add the Bacon: Chop the bacon into 1-inch pieces. Add the bacon to the bowl with the Brussel sprouts and toss gently to combine.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Air Fry the Mixture: Place the Brussel sprouts and bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The sprouts should be golden brown and tender, with crispy bacon bits.
- Optional Finishing Touch: For a tangy twist, drizzle the cooked Brussel sprouts and bacon with balsamic vinegar and toss gently before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: - Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot as a side for your favorite pork dishes or as a standalone snack.
Recipe Notes
Bacon Tip: For extra crispy bacon, partially cook the bacon in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes before adding the Brussel sprouts. This ensures the bacon gets that perfect crunch.
Air Fryer Size: Depending on your air fryer’s capacity, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Variations: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bacon Brussel Sprouts Recipe
This Air Fryer Bacon Brussel Sprouts recipe is a total win for pork lovers and veggie fans alike. The smoky, savory Minnesota pork bacon pairs perfectly with the caramelized, slightly sweet Brussel sprouts, creating a side dish that’s bursting with flavor. The air fryer makes it quick and easy, cutting down on oil and cleanup while delivering crispy, restaurant-quality results. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy pork chop or as a holiday side, this dish is versatile, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. Try it with a balsamic drizzle for a tangy kick or toss in some garlic for extra zing. It’s a simple way to elevate your meals with the unbeatable taste of Minnesota pork!
Additional Tips
-
Pairing Ideas: Serve with grilled pork tenderloin, roasted chicken, or a creamy mashed potato dish for a complete meal.
-
Make It a Meal: Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the air fryer for a heartier dish.
-
Kid-Friendly Twist: Chop the Brussel sprouts smaller and mix with extra bacon to win over picky eaters.
Explore More Delicious Pork Recipes
Ready to keep the flavor going? Check out more ways to make pork the star of your next meal:
From quick weeknight dinners to weekend favorites, MN Pork has the recipes to make your menu unforgettable.
