These Air Fryer * Brussel Sprouts with Bacon are easy to make in just 20 minutes, and loaded with flavor. Salty, crunchy & sweet, with some acidityfrom balsamic vinegar it's the perfect side dish for the holidays- or any time of year.
Place the brussel sprouts in another bowl, and pour over the balsamic vinegar mixture. Mix well.
½ lb brussel sprouts
Place the brussel sprouts in one half of an air fryer basket, and place the chopped bacon in the other half. If there is any balsamic mixture left over you can save this to pour over before serving.
¼ lb bacon
Air fry for 5 minutes at 350°F (180°C), then remove the air fryer basket and mix the brussel sprouts and bacon gently - still keeping them on separate sides of the air fryer.
Air fry 5 more minutes at 350°F (180°C), then remove the air fryer basket and mix the bacon and brussel sprouts together. Air fry for 5 minutes at 390°F (200°C), until bacon is a bit crispy.
If desired, pour over any remaining balsamic mixture from the bowl, then serve!
Video
Notes
Ingredient notes & substitutions
Brussel sprouts: I cut them in half, but if they are very big I recommend cutting them in quarters instead
Olive oil can be swapped for another type of oil, like canola oil
Cayenne pepper: The amount here gives it just a tiny edge, and you can skip cayenne entirely to avoid this. Or add more for a larger kick!
Salt is not needed as the bacon will add enough saltiness to the dish
Tips & tricks
To chop bacon easily, first place it in the freezer for a few minutes
For crispy bacon - air fry the bacon and brussel sprouts separately to start
For even crispier bacon air fry it alone for 5 minutes at 350°F (180°C) before pushing to one side and adding the brussel sprouts
Don't overcrowd the basket - a thin layer is best, cook in batches if needed
Cook time may vary depending on your air fryer* model
Adjust cook time depending on how much you're making and the size of your air fryer*. The more layers, the longer it will need.
Store in the fridge in an air tight container for up to 4 days
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer* for 5 minutes at 300°F (150°C) or in the microwave in 30 second increments, until heated through