Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Bacon Brussels Sprouts combine Brussels sprouts, thick-cut bacon, balsamic glaze, and Parmesan; air fry at 390°F for 18 minutes until charred and caramelized.

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Time
18 min
Temp
390°F
Calories
190
Serves
4
Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Method

  1. 1

    Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  2. 2

    Add chopped bacon to the basket with the sprouts — the bacon fat renders and bastes everything.

  3. 3

    Air fry at 390°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes, until sprouts are charred and bacon is crispy.

  4. 4

    Drizzle with balsamic glaze and top with grated Parmesan.

Pro tip. Cut sprouts in half — flat sides down gives maximum caramelization. Loose outer leaves will fly around; that's fine, they become the crispiest chips.

Why the air fryer wins here

  • Ready in 18 minutes. The same dish takes about 29 in a conventional oven, plus preheating.
  • Fast-moving hot air browns the outside before the inside dries out, so you get color without babysitting.
  • Cleanup is a basket, not a sheet pan and a splattered stovetop.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate perishable leftovers within 2 hours, or within 1 hour above 90°F. Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) throughout, measured with a food thermometer. USDA leftover safety guidance.

Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring them back, air fry at 360°F for 3-4 minutes. Brussels sprouts actually get better on reheat — more caramelized. Full reheat guide for brussels sprouts.

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