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Air Fryer Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Name: Air Fryer Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels Sprouts; 4-6 strips bacon; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: August 13, 2023

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Are you looking for a delicious way to get your favorite veggies in without compromising flavor? Look no further than these Air Fryer Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts!

Brussels sprouts offer an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and when prepared with our unique air fryer method, they also provide an incredibly indulgent experience that all ages will enjoy.

From kids who appreciate a bit of sweetness in their vegetables to adults who seek something extra in flavor- this recipe has it all!

So if you’re ready for some deliciousness that’s also healthy, read on to find out how easy it is to make this mouthwatering dish!

Easy maple bacon Brussels sprouts air fryer

These are perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts are paired with the savory allure of bacon, all covered with a delicious maple glaze.

This dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness and savory notes while showcasing what an air fryer can achieve. Whether you are new to air frying, or have been air frying for years, you will love this recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe For Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Easy and Quick: With the efficiency of the air fryer, you’ll have a delectable side dish ready in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of maple and bacon brings a sweet-savory dynamic that makes each bite memorable.
Versatility: This dish is perfect for an everyday meal but elegant enough to impress guests during special occasions or festive seasons.
Kid-Friendly: Even if Brussels sprouts have been a hard sell in your household, the allure of maple and bacon might convert the little ones.
Innovative Approach: Using an air fryer for Brussels sprouts is a fresh take on the classic oven roasting, showcasing how traditional ingredients can be revitalized with modern methods.
Texture Delight: The sprouts become crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside, offering a delightful contrast in every mouthful.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need for your next batch of Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below n the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post, as well as the nutritional information.

Brussels Sprouts: Use fresh and blemish free sprouts!
Bacon: Adding a savory crunch and smoky flavor, bacon complements the natural taste of Brussels sprouts. Thick-cut bacon is recommended for a meatier bite.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup provides a natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the bacon.
Olive Oil: Helps to give the Brussels sprouts a golden crisp when air fried.
Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavors and melds them together.
Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and aromatic element to the dish.
Garlic Powder (optional): Adds an extra depth of flavor, complementing the natural taste of the Brussels sprouts.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick!

How To Make Air Fryer Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Here are the simple steps for making air fryer maple bacon Brussel sprouts!

Preparation: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim off any yellow or damaged leaves, cut off the stems, and halve them. Chop the bacon strips into small bite-sized pieces.

Marinate: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix well to ensure the sprouts and bacon are well coated.

Preheat Air Fryer: Turn on your air fryer and preheat to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes. Most modern air fryers have a preheat setting, but if yours doesn’t, just set it to the desired temperature and let it run empty for a few minutes.

Cooking: Once preheated, carefully transfer the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture to the air fryer basket, spreading them out in an even layer. It’s essential not to overcrowd the basket; depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Set cook time for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. This will help the Brussels sprouts get crispy on all sides and allow the bacon to cook uniformly.

Check and Serve: At around the 15-minute mark, check the Brussels sprouts for desired crispiness. If they need more time, continue to cook, checking every 2-3 minutes to prevent overcooking. Once cooked to your liking, carefully remove the Brussels sprouts and bacon from the air fryer. For an added kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired!

Pro Tips For Maple Syrup Brussel Sprouts Air Fryer

Uniform Sizing: Ensure all the Brussels sprouts are halved to the same size.
Dry Thoroughly: After washing the Brussels sprouts, dry them completely.
Thick-Cut Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon when possible. It remains juicy and offers a more substantial bite than regular bacon, which can sometimes become too crispy or burnt.
Layering: Don’t stack the Brussels sprouts too high in the air fryer basket. They should be close to a single layer for the best results.
Shake It Up: Periodically shaking the air fryer basket ensures that hot air circulates evenly around the Brussels sprouts, leading to an even crisp.
Maple Syrup Quality: Always choose pure maple syrup over imitation varieties.
Add Bacon Later: If you notice the bacon cooking faster and don’t want it too crispy, you can start by air frying the Brussels sprouts for a few minutes before adding the bacon.
Temperature Check: If you’re new to your air fryer or using a different model, start at a lower temperature and increase if necessary.
Season to Finish: After cooking, taste the Brussels sprouts and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Variations: Add crushed pecans for crunch, or sprinkle with parmesan for a cheesy finish.
Resting Time: Let the Brussels sprouts sit for 2-3 minutes after taking them out of the air fryer.

Maple Syrup Brussel Sprouts Air Fryer Recipe Faqs

Do I need to preheat my air fryer? Yes, preheating your air fryer helps achieve a consistent cooking temperature from the start, ensuring even cooking. It typically takes 2-3 minutes to preheat.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Yes, you can. However, fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best results. If you use frozen, make sure to increase the cooking time by a few minutes and check for desired doneness.

Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy? There could be excess moisture on your sprouts, or the air fryer may be overcrowded. Dry the sprouts well after washing and cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a leaner option, but remember it might not be as crispy or flavorful as traditional pork bacon. Adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best quality.

How can I reheat leftovers to maintain crispiness? Reheating in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes is ideal. This will help retain the crispy texture better than a microwave.

Can I add other seasonings or ingredients? This recipe is versatile. You can add ingredients like crushed pecans, grated parmesan, or even dried cranberries for a different twist.

Do I have to use maple syrup? While maple syrup adds a sweet balance to the savory bacon, if you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the quantity or omit it. Alternatively, honey can be used as a substitute.

Why is my bacon burning before my Brussels sprouts are done? This can happen due to the bacon’s thickness or if the pieces are too small. Try using thicker bacon cuts or adding the bacon a few minutes after starting the Brussels sprouts.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer oven? Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon in an oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and the bacon is cooked.

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