Name: air fryer brussel sprouts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional); Grated Parmesan cheese to taste (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a quick, healthy, and irresistibly tasty way to enjoy your greens, these air fryer brussel sprouts are about to become your new favorite sidekick in the kitchen. Crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside, each bite bursts with flavor thanks to simple seasonings and the magic of the air fryer. Whether you’re a Brussels sprout enthusiast or someone who’s never quite warmed up to them, this dish transforms humble sprouts into a crave-worthy treat that’s perfect any day of the week.

air fryer brussel sprouts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this air fryer brussel sprouts recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing taste, texture, and color, turning fresh Brussels sprouts into something truly special.

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Starting fresh and properly prepped sprouts ensure crispiness and even cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil helps create that golden, crispy exterior while adding a subtle richness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth without overpowering the natural flavor of the sprouts.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes, making every bite more flavorful.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Lends a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning profile.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional): A sweet tang that elevates the sprouts just before serving.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a salty, nutty finish that adds an irresistible dimension.

How to Make air fryer brussel sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Begin by trimming off the ends of each Brussels sprout and peeling away any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Then, cut each sprout in half lengthwise. This preparation allows for faster cooking and ensures every bite has the perfect balance of crisp edges and tender centers.

Step 2: Season the Sprouts

Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a mixing bowl, then drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over them. Toss everything together thoroughly so that every sprout is coated with oil and seasonings, which is the secret to achieving that irresistible flavor and crunch.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3 to 5 minutes. This step ensures a hot cooking environment so the Brussels sprouts start crisping up immediately when you add them.

Step 4: Arrange and Air Fry

Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re in a single layer and not overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than crisping, so it’s better to cook in batches if needed. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning on all sides.

Step 5: Finish with Optional Enhancements

Once golden brown and perfectly crisp, toss the sprouts with balsamic vinegar if you love that sweet acidity. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top while the sprouts are still warm. These touches add complexity and make this simple dish an unforgettable crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve air fryer brussel sprouts

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a few red pepper flakes can elevate your air fryer brussel sprouts with bursts of flavor and color, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

Side Dishes

These sprouts pair beautifully with almost anything from roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon to hearty grains like quinoa or wild rice. Their bright, crispy character balances rich or bland sides wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special meal, consider serving the sprouts topped with crushed toasted nuts or pomegranate seeds for crunch and a pop of color. Alternatively, toss them with a little fresh lemon zest and chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for a refreshing twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from your delicious batch of air fryer brussel sprouts, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for quick additions to your meals throughout the week.

Freezing

While freezing crisply cooked Brussels sprouts can be tricky because they may lose some texture, you can freeze blanched sprouts. However, for perfect air fryer brussel sprouts, freshly cooked is best to enjoy that signature crispness and flavor.

Reheating

To revive the delicious crispiness, reheat leftovers in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes rather than microwaving. This method restores their crunchy edges and delicious roasted flavor better than any other.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for air fryer brussel sprouts?

You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but it’s best to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can make them soggy instead of crispy.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No air fryer? No problem! You can roast Brussels sprouts in the oven at 400°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, tossing halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but will still be tasty.

How do I know when my air fryer brussel sprouts are done?

Look for a golden brown, crispy exterior and a tender interior. They should smell nutty and caramelized, and the cooking time usually ranges between 12 to 15 minutes depending on your air fryer’s model.

Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking. The air fryer brussel sprouts are versatile and welcome all kinds of flavor twists.

Is it okay to overcrowd the air fryer basket?

It’s best to avoid overcrowding because Brussels sprouts need space for hot air to circulate, which crisps them up. If you layer them too densely, they’ll steam rather than roast and lose that sought-after crunch.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these air fryer brussel sprouts, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed Brussels sprouts any other way. They’re simple, speedy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect side for almost any meal. Give this recipe a go and get ready for a new favorite that impresses both your taste buds and your friends.

air fryer brussel sprouts Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 17 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Crispy and flavorful air fryer Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic and onion powder, perfectly cooked to golden brown in the air fryer. This quick and easy side dish can be enhanced with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Brussels Sprouts

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

Seasonings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese to taste (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and removing any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut each sprout in half to ensure quick and even cooking.
Season the sprouts: In a mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well so that all sprouts are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes to ensure it is hot enough to cook the sprouts evenly.
Arrange in air fryer basket: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
Cook the Brussels sprouts: Air fry the sprouts for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and crispiness. The sprouts should turn golden brown and crispy when done.
Add finishing touches: If desired, drizzle the cooked Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar and toss gently to coat. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve warm: Transfer the crispy Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy them warm as a healthy and delicious side dish.

Notes

For best results, select firm and fresh Brussels sprouts without blemishes.
Shaking the air fryer basket halfway through cooking helps ensure all sprouts cook evenly and become crispy.
Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that complements the sprouts but can be omitted if preferred.
Grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and a salty kick but can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches to maintain crispiness.
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or spices as desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American