Imagine transforming boring Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering side dish that's so addictively delicious, you'll be craving them more than french fries! This Air Fryer Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is about to revolutionize your vegetable game, combining the smoky crunch of bacon, the caramelized edges of perfectly roasted sprouts, and a tangy balsamic glaze that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a Brussels sprouts skeptic or a die-hard fan, this recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite way to enjoy these nutrient-packed little gems.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the tough stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Pat the halved Brussels sprouts completely dry using paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent proper crisping in the air fryer.
- Chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces, approximately 1/2 inch in size. This will help the bacon cook evenly and distribute throughout the Brussels sprouts.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped bacon. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure even coating.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures crispy edges and tender interiors.
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation and even cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer's size.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and crispy, with the bacon fully cooked and slightly crisp.
- Once done, carefully remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer to a serving dish and optionally drizzle with additional balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Dryness is Key: Always thoroughly pat your Brussels sprouts dry before cooking. Excess moisture prevents crispy caramelization.
- Size Matters: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are cut to roughly the same size for even cooking. Uniformity is crucial for perfect results.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give your sprouts breathing room in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crispy roasting.
- Shake, Shake, Shake: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to ensure even browning and prevent any burning.
- Bacon Placement: Distribute bacon pieces evenly to maximize flavor and ensure they cook consistently with the sprouts.
- Temperature Precision: Stick to the 375°F (190°C) recommendation - it's the sweet spot for crispy exteriors and tender interiors.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of honey for extra complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 132kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 8g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
