Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts combine smoky, crispy bacon with tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts for a dish that’s both easy and irresistible. If you’ve been looking for a recipe to turn everyday veggies into a crowd-pleasing delight, look no further!
Perfect as a side, appetizer, or party snack, these are bound to disappear quickly from any table. The air fryer works magic by crisping up the bacon while ensuring the Brussels sprouts cook through evenly.
Whether you’re trying to convince veggie skeptics or impress your guests, this recipe is a surefire hit!
Check another comfort food for your dinner Shishito Peppers!
Contents
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
- 12 medium Brussels sprouts: Trimmed, halved, and ready for action.
- 6 slices of bacon: Cut in half, so you have 12 smaller pieces.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For coating the sprouts and helping the seasonings stick.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: A subtle smoky flavor to complement the bacon.
- ¼ tsp salt: Or to taste, since bacon already brings a salty punch.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: For a little kick.
- Toothpicks (optional): To keep the bacon secured during cooking.
Pro Tips
- Pre-cook the bacon slightly: To achieve extra-crispy bacon, consider cooking the slices halfway in the microwave or on the stovetop before wrapping the Brussels sprouts.
- Choose uniform Brussels sprouts: Pick sprouts of a similar size so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Secure with toothpicks: If your bacon isn’t staying in place, a simple toothpick can save the day. Just remember to remove them before serving.
- Add sweetness: For a sweet-and-savory twist, brush the bacon-wrapped Brussels with honey or maple syrup halfway through cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give each piece room to crisp up by cooking in batches if necessary.
Substitutions and Variations
- Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner alternative that’s just as flavorful.
- Plant-Based Option: Use vegan bacon or wrap the sprouts in strips of roasted red pepper for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar and cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a flavor boost.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair with garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or even ranch dressing for a fun dipping option.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the sprouts as soon as they come out of the air fryer.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is great for prepping in advance. Wrap the Brussels sprouts in bacon up to a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply pop them into the air fryer.
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts combine smoky, crispy bacon with tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts for a dish that’s both easy and irresistible.
Ingredients
- 12 medium Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Toothpicks (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the bacon crisps up nicely and the sprouts cook evenly.
- Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends and slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise. This creates a flat surface, allowing the bacon to wrap snugly around.
- Season the Sprouts: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the Brussels sprouts in the mixture until they’re well-coated.
- Wrap in Bacon: Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each Brussels sprout half. If the bacon doesn’t stay in place, use a toothpick to secure it.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the wrapped sprouts seam-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer with space between each piece to allow air to circulate.
- Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The bacon should be golden-brown and crispy, and the Brussels sprouts should be tender. Adjust the time slightly based on your air fryer model.
- Serve Immediately: Once cooked, transfer the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as-is!
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to bring back the crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only are these Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts a breeze to make, but they’re also an ideal way to incorporate more veggies into your meals without sacrificing flavor.
The salty bacon pairs beautifully with the slightly nutty taste of Brussels sprouts, making this dish a guaranteed hit. Serve it as a holiday appetizer, a weeknight side, or even a fun snack—and watch it disappear in no time!
Don’t forget to share your experience and leave a comment below. Enjoy!