Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bleu Cheese

This recipe is going to stir up some emotions in some people, I just know it.

First of all, let's clear the air about the brussel sprout:

Did you know that the brussel sprouts today are actually different than the ones your parents grew up with?

20+ years ago, cruciferous vegetables like brussels sprouts, broccoli, and kale had higher levels of glucosinolates, a chemical produced by the plant that give them that bitter taste.

When scientists discovered this in the 90s, they got to work to try and breed vegetables that naturally had lower levels of this natural chemical and they succeeded!

Ok Brooke, but now you're telling me to eat this less-bitter-but-still-bitter veggie with stinky cheese?

YES. I promise it's worth trying at least one bite because I used to not like brussels sprouts OR bleu cheese and I LOVE this recipe!

Better yet, if you love a wedge salad, this appetizer has all the elements of a wedge salad but in warm, bite-sized pieces!

Why you'll love this recipe

Simple ingredients: less than five to be exact! I bet you have at least half of them right now.

Minimal prep: just slice the sprouts and throw everything in the air fryer. That's it!

Quick cook time: 15 minutes tops and you've got a winning appetizer ready to go!

Bold flavors: the creamy blue cheese really takes this dish to the next level.

Perfect for entertaining: whether you need a stunning side dish for your main dish or just a fun appetizer for your Thanksgiving table, this recipe is great for both!

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Ingredients you'll need

• Brussels sprouts: halved (or quartered if they're big) for maximum crispiness. All you need is salt and pepper to make these veggies taste amazing!
• Blue cheese crumbles: tangy, creamy, and salty all in one. This cheese perfectly compliments the crispy brussels sprouts. If you absolutely hate bleu cheese for its strong flavor, I think goat cheese, feta cheese, or even parmesan cheese would also taste great.
• Slices of bacon: turkey bacon to be exact. I prefer turkey bacon because it's lower in sodium and saturated fat, but you can use whatever bacon you like. Just make sure to watch the bacon as it cooks.
• Bleu cheese dressing: optional but recommended. A little bit makes all the difference!

How to make this recipe

Step 1: prep the brussels sprouts

Trim the sprouts by cutting off the base and peeling off the first layer of leaves until the sprout is clean and the remaining leaves stay on the sprout.

For step by step pictures on how to do this step, visit this blog post.

Once the sprouts are trimmed, cut them in half. If they're extra big, quarter them.

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Step 2: roast in the air fryer

Spray the air fryer with cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil) and spread the sprouts in an even layer. Spray the sprouts with cooking spray and season with salt and pepper.

Place the slices of bacon on top of the sprouts, then close the air fryer.

Cook for 10-12 minutes until the sprouts are crispy and the bacon is fully cooked to your liking. If you like extra crispy brussels sprouts, cook for 15 minutes.

Step 3: dress and serve

Remove the bacon from the air fryer and finely chop into small pieces.

Plate all the brussels sprouts on a large serving plate and top with bleu cheese crumbles and bacon bits. Drizzle with a touch of bleu cheese dressing if desired.

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Fun variations to try

• Drizzle a simple balsamic glaze on top
• Cook slices of red onion with the sprouts and bacon
• Mix in some chopped crunchy walnuts
• Turn the whole roasted sprouts into a shaved brussels sprouts salad with all the same toppings

What to serve with bleu cheese brussels sprouts

Baked Salmon with Blueberry Sauce

High Protein Spinach Lasagna Rolls

5 Minute Buffalo Chicken Wraps

The BEST Ranch Grilled Chicken

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How to store this recipe

This recipe will last for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge after cooling to room temperature. However, be sure to store the bleu cheese crumbles separate from the cooked sprouts and bacon (unless you don't mind warm blue cheese).

I don't recommend making this appetizer ahead of time unless you are meal prepping it as part of a meal for lunches. It's best served fresh.

More easy appetizers

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta and Pistachios

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes (3 ways!)

Instant Pot BBQ Meatballs (sugar-free!)

Roasted Cinnamon Maple Brussels Sprouts

Whether you're prepping for a Sunday dinner or a holiday meal, this recipe is a great side dish that's ready in minutes.

​Plus, you get bold, restaurant-style flavors right in the comfort of your own home. What could be better?

Be sure to leave a star rating and review if you tried this recipe so other readers know how you liked it!