Brussels sprouts and bacon were made for each other, and the air fryer takes this perfect pairing and ensures it is so easy to make. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have crispy Brussels sprouts with beautifully caramelized edges and crispy bacon. A little butter, garlic, and Parmesan tie everything together into a side dish you’ll make again and again.
Make it a meal and serve these alongside a pork tenderloin or some salmon made in the air fryer.
Why Our Recipe
- Tender Brussels sprouts with caramelized edges and perfectly crispy bacon in just 10 minutes.
- Flavored with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to keep it simple yet delicious.
This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to make any meal feel special. Serve it alongside your favorite protein, and watch it disappear from the table.
Ingredient Notes
- Brussels Sprouts: You are buying fresh brussels sprouts for this. Look for bright green sprouts that feel firm and heavy for their size.
- Butter: Use salted or unsalted, whatever you have on hand. Melt it in the microwave at 50% power in 15 to 20-second increments.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin or another neutral-flavored cooking oil like avocado oil.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is always going to give you the best flavor. Jarred minced garlic works but has a more bitter flavor.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is a nice choice for texture, but any bacon will work. Dice it into small pieces to evenly distribute across the sprouts.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts the best. Pre-grated can also be used, but doesn’t melt as well.
Prepping Brussels Sprouts
Getting your Brussels sprouts ready is quick and easy once you know what to do.
Rinse and Soak: Rinse the sprouts under cold water, then soak them in a bowl of cold water for 10–15 minutes. This helps remove any dirt trapped in the leaves and makes the sprouts more tender when cooked.
Trim the Ends: Use a sharp knife to cut off the tough stem ends.
Remove Outer Leaves: Peel away any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
Halve or Quarter: Slice each sprout in half lengthwise. For larger sprouts, cut them into quarters to make sure they are easy to eat.
Adapting for Different Styles of Air Fryer
Basket Air Fryers: Cook at 400°F for 5 minutes, then toss the sprouts and add Parmesan. Cook for another 4–6 minutes.
Toaster-Oven Style Air Fryers: Spread sprouts evenly on the tray. Cook for 7 minutes, then toss and add Parmesan. Rotate trays and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes.
Ovens with Air Fryer Settings: Use a wire rack or air fryer tray. Cook for 7 minutes, then toss and add Parmesan. Cook for an additional 4-6 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer at 350°F. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they’re heated through and the bacon is crispy again.
