Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, Savory Perfection

Italian Chef Team

1 month ago

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, Savory Perfection

Brussels sprouts, often unfairly maligned, undergo a delicious transformation when paired with smoky bacon and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. This air fryer bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts recipe elevates the humble sprout into a crave-worthy appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. The air fryer delivers unparalleled crispness to both the bacon and the sprouts, ensuring a satisfying texture and a depth of flavor you won’t believe. Forget soggy, boiled Brussels sprouts – this recipe is a game-changer!

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and yielding maximum flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a delicious and impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of salty bacon, slightly sweet Brussels sprouts, and the smoky char from the air fryer is simply irresistible.

## Why This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts Recipe Works

* **Crispy Perfection:** The air fryer circulates hot air around the Brussels sprouts and bacon, resulting in incredibly crispy textures on all sides. No more soggy or unevenly cooked sprouts!
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Minimal Effort:** The air fryer does most of the work. Simply wrap, season, and air fry!
* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of salty bacon, slightly sweet Brussels sprouts, and optional seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Versatile:** Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
* **Healthier Option:** Air frying requires less oil than traditional frying methods, making this a slightly healthier way to enjoy bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Brussels Sprouts:** Fresh Brussels sprouts are essential for this recipe. Choose sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green.
* **Bacon:** Thin-cut bacon works best, as it crisps up more quickly and evenly in the air fryer. You can use regular or thick-cut bacon, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
* **Olive Oil:** A drizzle of olive oil helps the Brussels sprouts to crisp up and prevents them from drying out in the air fryer.
* **Garlic Powder:** Garlic powder adds a savory depth of flavor to the Brussels sprouts and complements the bacon beautifully.
* **Onion Powder:** Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
* **Black Pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and balances the richness of the bacon.
* **Optional Seasonings:** Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as paprika, chili powder, or maple syrup, to customize the flavor to your liking.
* **Optional Balsamic Glaze:** A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the savory flavors of the bacon and Brussels sprouts.

**Detailed Ingredient List:**

* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
* 8-12 slices bacon, thin-cut
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup
* Optional: Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Air Fryer:** An air fryer is essential for achieving crispy, perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts.
* **Cutting Board:** A cutting board is needed for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
* **Knife:** A sharp knife is needed for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
* **Mixing Bowl:** A mixing bowl is needed for tossing the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasonings.
* **Toothpicks (Optional):** Toothpicks can be used to secure the bacon to the Brussels sprouts, especially if using thick-cut bacon.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make perfect air fryer bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts:

**Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts**

* Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water.
* Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves.
* Halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts, depending on their size. Larger Brussels sprouts should be quartered to ensure even cooking.

**Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts**

* In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Ensure that the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

**Step 3: Wrap the Brussels Sprouts with Bacon**

* Cut each slice of bacon in half.
* Wrap each Brussels sprout half (or quarter) with a piece of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, if desired. This is particularly helpful if using thick-cut bacon.

**Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer**

* Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the air fryer is at the correct temperature when the Brussels sprouts are added, resulting in even cooking and crispy textures.

**Step 5: Air Fry the Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts**

* Place the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent the Brussels sprouts from cooking evenly and crisping up properly. You may need to cook them in batches.
* Air fry for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Flip the Brussels sprouts halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on all sides. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**

* Remove the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

* **Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts:** Fresh Brussels sprouts have a better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Choose sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket:** Overcrowding the basket can prevent the Brussels sprouts from cooking evenly and crisping up properly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
* **Adjust Cooking Time as Needed:** Air fryers can vary in cooking time, so adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure that the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
* **Secure Bacon with Toothpicks (Optional):** Toothpicks can be used to secure the bacon to the Brussels sprouts, especially if using thick-cut bacon. Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
* **Experiment with Seasonings:** Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Paprika, chili powder, maple syrup, and balsamic glaze are all great options.
* **Use an Air Fryer Liner:** Consider using an air fryer liner for easier cleanup.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts:** Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the Brussels sprouts before wrapping them with bacon for a touch of sweetness.
* **Spicy Bacon Brussels Sprouts:** Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts for a spicy kick.
* **Vegan Bacon Brussels Sprouts:** Use vegan bacon alternatives to create a plant-based version of this recipe. Look for vegan bacon made from tempeh, tofu, or mushrooms.
* **Different Cheeses:** Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or goat cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy variation.
* **Add Nuts:** Toast some pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them over the finished Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor.
* **Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage, to enhance the flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
* **Bacon Alternatives:** You can also use pancetta or prosciutto instead of bacon for a different flavor profile.

## Serving Suggestions

Air fryer bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Appetizer:** Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
* **Side Dish:** Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite main course. They pair well with roasted chicken, steak, pork, or fish.
* **Snack:** Enjoy as a healthy and satisfying snack between meals.
* **Holiday Meal:** They make a wonderful addition to any holiday meal, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
* **Salad Topping:** Add them to salads for a boost of flavor and texture.
* **Tacos or Bowls:** Chop them up and add them to tacos or grain bowls.

## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

**Make-Ahead:**

You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and wrap them with bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This is a great time-saver if you’re preparing for a party or gathering.

**Storage:**

Store leftover air fryer bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

**Freezing:**

While not ideal, you can freeze cooked bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat them directly from frozen in the air fryer, but be aware that the texture may be slightly softer.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* Calories: Approximately 150-200 per serving (depending on the amount of bacon used)
* Fat: 10-15 grams
* Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
* Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
* Sodium: 200-300 mg
* Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
* Fiber: 2-3 grams
* Protein: 5-7 grams

This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates and a good source of fiber and protein. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and vitamin K.

## Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts Recipe Card

**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10-15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts. Halve or quarter them depending on their size.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
3. Cut each slice of bacon in half. Wrap each Brussels sprout half (or quarter) with a piece of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if desired.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding.
6. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Flip halfway through.
7. Remove from the air fryer and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired. Serve immediately.

## Conclusion

Air fryer bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this often-overlooked vegetable. The air fryer delivers unparalleled crispness to both the bacon and the sprouts, creating a flavor and texture combination that is simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a healthy and satisfying snack. Give it a try and you’ll be amazed at how delicious Brussels sprouts can be!

Tags: Recipes