AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED BRUSSEL SPROUTS

If you’re looking for a delicious appetizer that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds, you’ve come to the right place! These air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts are one of my all-time favorites. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even just a cozy night in. Just imagine those crispy, savory bites bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

The combination of the crispy exterior and tender inside makes these little morsels irresistible. Plus, they’re super simple to whip up, making them ideal for any occasion. Trust me; once you try these air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes in the air fryer, you can have these delightful bites ready in no time!
• Flavor Packed: The balsamic vinegar and garlic create a rich marinade that elevates the natural flavors of the Brussel sprouts.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields enough servings for everyone, making it great for parties or family dinners.
• Healthy Twist on a Classic: Enjoy the traditional taste of bacon without the guilt—these are made with wholesome ingredients!
• Versatile Appetizer: Great for any occasion—whether it’s game day or holiday gatherings, these bites will be a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts:

For the Marinade

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic

For the Brussel Sprouts

• 1 1/2 pounds brussel sprouts
• Salt & pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that perfectly complements the sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
• Vegan Option: Swap out bacon for sliced mushrooms marinated in olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a delicious plant-based alternative.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the finished dish for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Different Greens: Try using asparagus or green beans instead of Brussel sprouts for a fresh twist on this appetizer.

How to Make AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED BRUSSEL SPROUTS

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together your marinade! In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it infuses the Brussels sprouts with flavor from the very beginning.

Step 2: Coat the Brussel Sprouts

Next, take your cleaned and trimmed Brussel sprouts and add them to the bowl with your marinade. Toss them gently until each sprout is well-coated. This not only enhances their flavor but also helps achieve that delicious caramelization when cooking!

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

Now comes the fun part! Take your favorite bacon substitute (if applicable) or regular bacon and wrap each marinated sprout tightly. This will create that crunchy outer layer while keeping the insides juicy—so satisfying!

Step 4: Air Fry Them to Perfection

Place your wrapped Brussel sprouts in an air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. Make sure to check them halfway through; giving them a little shake ensures even cooking.

Enjoy every delightful bite of these air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts—we promise they won’t last long on your table!

Pro Tips for Making AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED BRUSSEL SPROUTS

These simple tips will help you create perfectly crispy and flavorful Brussel sprouts every time!

• Choose Fresh Brussel Sprouts: Opt for firm, bright green sprouts that are free from blemishes. Freshness ensures a better flavor and texture.
• Wrap Tightly: Make sure to wrap the bacon snugly around the Brussel sprouts. A tight wrap helps the bacon cook evenly and stay in place during air frying.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that your Brussel sprouts start cooking immediately, resulting in a crispier exterior while keeping the inside tender.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give your sprouts enough space in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, making some pieces underdone while others become too crispy.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Size: If your Brussel sprouts vary in size, check for doneness regularly. Smaller ones will cook faster than larger ones, so keep an eye on them!

How to Serve AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED BRUSSEL SPROUTS

Serving your air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts beautifully can enhance their appeal and make them a standout dish at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds a bright note that complements the savory flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes pair beautifully with these savory bites, creating a comforting meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a light contrast to the richness of the bacon.
• Roasted Vegetables: Mix it up with seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots and zucchini. Their sweetness balances well with the salty bacon.
• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette provides a crunchy texture and freshness that offsets the richness of the main dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious bites throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Brussel sprouts in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked Brussel sprouts to cool completely before freezing.
• Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the frozen or refrigerated Brussel sprouts in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of vegetable instead of Brussel sprouts?

Yes! While this recipe is specifically for air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts, you can try using asparagus or green beans as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I ensure my air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts turn out crispy?

To achieve crispy results with your air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts, make sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cooking them in batches will help maintain proper airflow and crispiness.

What dipping sauces pair well with air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts?

These tasty bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, garlic aioli, or a zesty mustard sauce. Experiment with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful air fryer bacon wrapped Brussel sprouts! This recipe combines savory flavors with a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. Whether as an appetizer or a snack, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!