Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

If you’ve ever wanted to master the art of perfectly crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, you’re in the right place! These little green gems transform into a crunchy, caramelized delight that’s both healthy and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a flavorful side dish, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are your go-to recipe for easy, crisp, and downright delicious results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.
• Healthy Snacking: Uses little oil but still delivers maximum crispiness and flavor.
• Versatile Flavor: Easily customized with spices, herbs, or toppings to suit any palate.
• Minimal Cleanup: One appliance, one basket, and no mess to worry about.
• Kid-Friendly: Even those who claim not to like Brussels sprouts will change their minds with this recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple but packs in essential flavors and textures that make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts so addictive. Each ingredient works together to achieve that perfect crisp and satisfying taste.

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm, and trimmed for consistent cooking.
• Olive Oil: Just enough to coat the sprouts, adding richness while helping crisp them up.
• Salt: Enhances natural flavors and balances bitterness.
• Black Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Optional but highly recommended for a savory layer of flavor.

Variations for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

One of the best parts about Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts is how easy it is to tailor the recipe to your taste buds or dietary needs. Experimenting with these variations can keep this dish exciting with every try.

• Sweet and Spicy: Toss them with a drizzle of honey and a pinch of chili flakes before air frying.
• Balsamic Glazed: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar right after cooking for tangy sweetness.
• Cheesy Crunch: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on hot sprouts for an irresistible cheesy finish.
• Herb Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Vegan Variation: Omit cheese and opt for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by rinsing your Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Step 2: Season and Oil

Place the halved sprouts in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss everything well so each sprout is generously coated but not swimming in oil.

Step 3: Preheat and Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside the basket to allow hot air circulation for that perfect crisp. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the edges are golden brown and crisp, transfer your Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts to a serving dish. If desired, toss with any finishing touches like balsamic glaze or Parmesan before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Firmer and smaller Brussels sprouts crisp up better and won’t get mushy.
• Dry Thoroughly: Water is the enemy of crispiness, so make sure sprouts are well dried before oiling.
• Single Layer Cooking: Avoid stacking to ensure hot air reaches every surface for even cooking.
• Use a Light Hand with Oil: Too much oil can make them soggy instead of crispy.
• Shake Halfway Through: Tossing the sprouts during cooking helps them brown evenly.

How to Serve Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

Enhance the look and flavor by adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts, a drizzle of lemon juice, or freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of freshness.

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty quinoa salad, balancing out rich or protein-heavy meals with their bright, crispy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Use them as a crunchy topping for grain bowls, mix into warm pasta dishes, or stand them alongside a charcuterie board to delight guests with an unexpected healthy crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They might lose some crispiness but still taste delicious when reheated properly.

Freezing

While fresh Brussels sprouts air fry best, you can freeze cooked leftovers by first cooling them completely and storing in airtight bags—best consumed within 1 month for quality.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch, reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes instead of the microwave, which tends to make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts in the air fryer?

Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry first to help achieve crispiness similar to fresh sprouts.

How do I prevent Brussels sprouts from smelling strong when cooking?

Cooking at higher heat quickly in the air fryer reduces the sulfuric smell often associated with Brussels sprouts.

What temperature is best for air frying Brussels sprouts?

The sweet spot is around 375°F (190°C) to allow the outsides to get crispy while the insides stay tender.

Do I need to use oil to air fry Brussels sprouts?

Using a small amount of oil is important for crispiness and flavor, but you only need a light coating to get great results.

Can I add other vegetables to air fry with Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes work well, but be mindful of cooking times and cut sizes for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Once you get the hang of Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed them any other way. Quick, crispy, and packed with flavor, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable in a fun and tasty form. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love all over again with this easy, irresistible side or snack!

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