Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

Introduction

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon is a savory and crispy side dish that will quickly become a favorite. The Brussels sprouts are perfectly charred and tender on the inside, while the beef bacon adds a savory, smoky crunch that elevates the dish to new heights. The air fryer gives them that ideal crispiness without all the extra oil, making them a healthier yet equally delicious choice.

This dish holds a special place in my heart too. I first made it on a chilly evening when I was craving something hearty yet light, and the combination of crispy sprouts and the bold flavor of beef bacon was a revelation. The slightly caramelized edges of the Brussels sprouts, paired with the rich, smoky bacon, create a balance of flavors that is absolutely mouthwatering. The natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts is mellowed by the beef bacon’s richness, making every bite addictive.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon is perfect for any meal, whether as a side for a comforting dinner or even as a snack when you’re craving something salty and crispy. Serve it as a side to roasted meats or alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful side that everyone will love, this is the one to try!

Perfect for:

• Low-carb or keto-friendly meals
• Weeknight dinners
• Healthy side dishes
• Quick snacks
• Bacon lovers looking for an alternative

Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

Here’s why Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Crispy and Tender: The Brussels sprouts get perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
• Beef Bacon: A delicious twist on traditional pork bacon, adding a savory smokiness without pork.
• Quick and Easy: With the air fryer, this dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Healthy: Air frying reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a satisfying crunch.
• Low-Carb/Keto: A great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices beef bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Brussels Sprouts: Packed with vitamins and fiber, they become crispy and caramelized when air-fried, giving them a delicious texture.
• Beef Bacon: A fantastic alternative to traditional pork bacon, offering a similar smokiness and crunch but without pork.
• Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer while adding a rich flavor.
• Seasonings: A combination of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of balsamic vinegar enhances the dish with bold, savory flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon:

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

1. Trim and Halve: Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. If some of the outer leaves fall off, that’s fine—they’ll crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
2. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure the sprouts are evenly coated.

Prepare the Beef Bacon:

3. Cook the Beef Bacon: Place the beef bacon slices in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy. Once done, remove from the air fryer and set aside to cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.

Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts:

4. Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts: Add the seasoned Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping.

Combine and Serve:

5. Add the Beef Bacon: Once the Brussels sprouts are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer. Toss with the chopped beef bacon and optional balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon can be served in a variety of ways to complement your meals:

• As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced meal.
• On a Salad: Toss with mixed greens, goat cheese, and nuts for a hearty salad.
• As a Snack: Serve with a dip like ranch or a yogurt-based dip for a light snack.
• With a Dipping Sauce: A simple aioli or spicy mayo makes a great accompaniment.

Additional Tips for Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

Follow these tips for the best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will yield the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast.
• Crispiness Tip: If you want extra crispy Brussels sprouts, add a light spray of cooking oil halfway through the cooking process.

Recipe Variations for Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

Here are 5 variations to customize your Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon:

1. Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup before serving for a sweet-savory combo.
2. Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder for a spicy kick.
3. Cheesy Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella over the Brussels sprouts during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
4. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with balsamic glaze after air frying for a tangy finish.
5. Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Toss the cooked sprouts with minced garlic and grated Parmesan for a deliciously cheesy flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

• Freezing: Brussels sprouts and beef bacon can be frozen before or after cooking. To freeze, arrange the cooked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
• Storage: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore the crispiness.

Special Equipment for Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

Here are some items that make preparing Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon easier:

1. Air Fryer: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
2. Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: For trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
3. Tongs: Great for tossing and transferring the Brussels sprouts in and out of the air fryer.
4. Mixing Bowl: For tossing the Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings.
5. Measuring Spoons: To ensure the right balance of seasonings.
6. Small Cutting Board: For chopping the cooked beef bacon.

FAQ Section for Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon

1. Can I use regular bacon instead of beef bacon?
   Yes, you can substitute pork bacon for beef bacon if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as pork bacon may cook faster.
2. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
   Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can crisp up the beef bacon in a skillet or oven as well.
3. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
   Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent them from becoming soggy.
4. What can I substitute for beef bacon?
   You can substitute turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta if you prefer, though the flavor will be slightly different.
5. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
   Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a splash of balsamic vinegar will add extra layers of flavor.
6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time by trimming and halving them, and then air fry them fresh when ready to serve.

Print

Conclusion

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon is an easy, flavorful, and healthy dish that brings together crispy Brussels sprouts and savory beef bacon for a truly satisfying side. The air fryer makes this recipe quick and effortless, while the beef bacon adds a unique twist to the classic bacon flavor. Whether you serve it alongside a main course or enjoy it as a snack, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Perfect for keto and low-carb diets, as well as anyone looking for a healthier alternative to pork bacon, this recipe is versatile and customizable. Try it out today for a tasty and nutritious dish that’s sure to impress!