Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic
User Reviews
4.2
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
12 mins
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Total Time
17 mins
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Servings
4 -6 servings
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Course
Side Dish
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic
Description
In this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe, fresh Brussels sprouts are prepared by trimming the stems and cutting larger sprouts into quarters to ensure even cooking. The stray leaves that fall off during trimming are retained because they crisp nicely and provide a contrasting texture. The sprouts are tossed with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then air fried at 400°F while stirred midway to promote even browning and crispness. The total cook time is around 12 minutes to achieve crispy outsides and tender centers.
Immediately after frying, while still hot, the Brussels sprouts are tossed with maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and cooked crumbled bacon. The syrup and vinegar add a glossy, balanced sweetness and tang that complements the caramelized sprouts, while the bacon contributes savory, smoky notes and added texture. This method gives sprouts a bright, complex flavor combination and a pleasing crisp-tender bite.
This dish serves well as a side for roasted or grilled meats, or can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Serving it warm maintains the best texture and flavor. The recipe highlights that using good quality balsamic vinegar significantly affects the taste, emphasizing the ingredient's importance.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts fresh
- olive oil
- salt
- black pepper
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup Bacon cooked and crumbled
Instructions
- Prep the brussels sprouts by trimming off the root end and halving each sprout lengthwise. For large sprouts, cut them into quarters. Do not discard the leaves that fall off of the cut sprouts – those get nice and crispy and are the best part!
- Toss the brussels sprouts with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Once preheated, add the sprouts and cook at 400°F for 12 minutes, stirring after 6 minutes. Check them again around 9 minutes to see how crisp they are; finish the full 12 minutes if you like them nice and crispy.
- As soon as the sprouts come out of the air fryer, while they are still piping hot, toss with the syrup, balsamic vinegar, and bacon. Taste for seasoning. Serve warm.
Notes
- Choose a good quality balsamic vinegar for a deeper, more balanced flavor in the glaze.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.2
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