I have never been a fan of Brussels sprouts, but since trying the bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts in Air Fryer, I have a new love for sprouts. This recipe is a great appetizer and crowd-pleaser!
Transform your appetizer game with these mouthwatering bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Combining the salty bacon with the earthy tones of Brussels sprouts, this dish is then elevated to the next level with a sweet and tangy maple glaze. Whether you’re looking for the perfect appetizer for game day, a delicious side dish, or just an easy way to get more vegetables into your diet, this recipe will impress. Even if you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts, this recipe will change your mind with its crispy bacon, extra tender Brussels sprouts, and irresistible glaze.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Brussels sprouts (about 1 lb, yellow leaves removed)
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Thick-cut bacon (1 slice per 2 Brussels sprouts)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for a brown sugar glaze)
- Optional for serving: ranch dressing, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar can also be added.
How to make the perfect Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer:
Preparation: Start by washing and trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts. If the sprouts are huge, you can cut them in half for more even cooking. Place them in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Wrap the Brussels Sprouts: Cut the bacon slices in half or use one whole slice for larger sprouts. Wrap each Brussels sprout with a piece of bacon, securing the end of the bacon on the seam side. For a secure wrap, you can use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place. Secure with a toothpick to keep the bacon wrapped on the sprouts.
Make the Glaze: Add brown sugar and cover the wrapped sprouts with the sugar in a small bowl, one piece at a time. This glaze will add a deliciously sweet contrast to the salty bacon. If you are using maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, you can mix them.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F. Place the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in the basket in a single layer, seam side down, to prevent the bacon from unraveling. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
Cooking Time: Air fry for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Halfway through the cooking time, brush the sprouts with the maple glaze, then return them to the air fryer to finish cooking. For extra crispiness, air fry for a further 2-4 minutes.
Serving: Allow the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts to cool for 3-4 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed independently or with a dipping sauce of choice, such as ranch dressing or sour cream.
Pro Tips for the perfect Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
For smaller sprouts, thin-cut bacon might be more appropriate to avoid overwhelming the vegetable.
If you have leftover bacon, it can be chopped and sprinkled on top for added texture and flavor.
To make this dish, prepare the wrapped air fryer Brussels sprouts and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days before air frying.
Nutritional Information:
This recipe is a great source of vitamin C and offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried appetizers. For those on a medically restrictive diet, always consult available nutrient data and adjust the recipe to meet personal consumption and daily values.
These bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts will become a new favorite, pleasing the whole family with their perfect blend of flavors and textures. With just a little effort and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that’s delicious and adds a nutritious twist to your meal.
FAQ about Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts to ensure the crispiest texture and best flavor. Frozen Brussels sprouts can release more moisture during cooking, which might make it harder to achieve crispy bacon. If you only have frozen sprouts, thaw them completely and pat them dry before use.
How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling while cooking?
To prevent the bacon from unraveling, wrap each Brussels sprout tightly and secure the end of the bacon slice on the seam side down in the air fryer basket. You can also use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place—just remember to remove them before serving.
What if my bacon isn’t crispy enough?
If your bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like by the end of the cooking time, you can air fry the sprouts for a further 2-4 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to ensure the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness without overcooking the Brussels sprouts.
Can I make these bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to cook them, place them directly in the air fryer. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time since they’ll be starting from a colder temperature.
What are some dipping sauce recommendations?
These bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include ranch dressing, sour cream, honey mustard, or a balsamic reduction. Feel free to experiment with your favorite sauces to find the perfect match.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for a few minutes until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy again.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this recipe can be suitable for a ketogenic diet, as it is low in carbs and high in fat, thanks to the bacon. However, if you’re adding a glaze or dipping sauce, be mindful of any added sugars which could increase the carb count. Always check the ingredients to ensure they fit within your specific dietary requirements.
Can I add any spices or seasonings?
Absolutely! While delicious on their own, these bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts can be enhanced with various seasonings. Consider sprinkling them with garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, or even a little bit of parmesan cheese before or after air frying for added flavor.
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Look for Brussels sprouts that are bright green, firm, and free from yellow or brown spots. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, which can be a perfect match for the salty bacon. However, larger sprouts can also be used—just remember to cut them in half for even cooking.
I hope you enjoy this version of the air fryer bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts with a golden brown as an easy appetizer or healthy snack!
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tong
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
- Fresh Brussels sprouts about 1 lb, yellow leaves removed
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Thick-cut bacon 1 slice per 2 Brussels sprout
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional for a brown sugar glaze
Instructions
- Preparation: Start by washing and trimming the ends of the ends of the brussels sprouts. If the sprouts are particularly large, you can cut them in half for more even cooking. Place them in a large bowl, and toss with olive oil and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Wrap the Brussels Sprouts: Cut the bacon slices in half or use one whole slice for larger sprouts. Wrap each Brussels sprout with a piece of bacon, securing the end of the bacon on the seam side. For a secure wrap, you can also use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place. Secure with tooth pick to keep the bacon wrapped on the sprouts.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, add brown sugar and cover the wrapped sprouts with the sugar, one piece at a time. This glaze will add a deliciously sweet contrast to the salty bacon. You can add mix together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, if using.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F. Place the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, seam side down to prevent the bacon from unraveling. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cooking Time: Air fry for 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Halfway through the cooking time, brush the sprouts with the maple glaze, then return them to the air fryer to finish cooking. For extra crispiness, you can air fry for a further 2-4 minutes.
- Serving: Allow the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts to cool for 3-4 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce of choice, such as ranch dressing or sour cream.
More Air fryer recipes on the blog:
Crispy bacon recipe
Dehydrated fruits in the air fryer.
About the Author
I am Seun, and I love to share my first-hand experience using multiple air fryers. Stick around for yummy delicacies made from the air fryer and many amazing tips on using your newfound Kitchen appliance – the air fryer!
