Crispy & Delicious Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Get perfectly crispy and tender Air Fryer Brussels sprouts in minutes! This easy recipe transforms a classic vegetable into a delicious, healthy side dish with minimal effort. Achieve that desirable golden-brown exterior and tender interior every time. A fantastic way to enjoy your greens!

What Makes These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Perfect for Busy Weeknights?

These aren’t your grandma’s boiled Brussels sprouts! The air fryer brings out the best in this often-misunderstood vegetable, making it perfect for your rotation:

• Simplicity at its Best: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
• Minimal Preparation: A quick trim, a halve, a toss, and they’re ready for the air fryer. No elaborate chopping or sautéing required.
• Quick Cooking Time: The air fryer cooks these sprouts in a fraction of the time compared to oven roasting, meaning dinner gets on the table faster.
• Customizability: While delicious with just salt and pepper, these sprouts are a fantastic canvas for various flavor additions, from balsamic glaze to Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

You only need a few simple ingredients to create this fantastic side:

• 500g (about 1 lb) Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts.
• 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Or your preferred cooking oil.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: To enhance their natural flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best.
• Optional Flavor Boosters: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, a drizzle of balsamic glaze (after cooking), or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step-by-Step Air Frying Instructions

Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly crispy and tender Brussels sprouts every time:

1. Prepare the Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim off the tough end of the stem and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. For larger sprouts, cut them in half vertically. For smaller ones, you can leave them whole.
2. Season the Sprouts: In a medium bowl, combine the prepared Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure all sprouts are lightly coated. If using, add any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika at this stage.
3. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming rather than crisping. You may need to cook them in two batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Air Fry: Cook at 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 12-18 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 6-9 minutes), shake the basket vigorously to ensure even cooking and browning.
5. Check for Doneness: Continue cooking until the sprouts are tender-crisp on the inside and nicely caramelized and crispy on the outside. Cooking time may vary slightly based on the size of your sprouts and the specific air fryer model.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the crispy Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love Making These Brussels Sprouts Again and Again

These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are more than just a side dish; they’re a revelation! The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates an incredible texture that’s difficult to achieve with other methods. You’ll love how easy they are to make, how quickly they cook, and how they complement almost any main course. Prepare for these to become a new family favorite that you’ll be making repeatedly!

FAQ

• Can I make these ahead of time? While best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer for maximum crispiness, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through and re-crisped.
• What if my Brussels sprouts aren’t getting crispy? Ensure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation. Also, make sure they are coated lightly with oil. Cooking at a slightly higher temperature or for a bit longer can also help.
• Can I add other seasonings or ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with seasonings like chili flakes for a kick, a pinch of smoked paprika, or even a dash of maple syrup for a sweet and savory twist. Diced bacon or pancetta can also be added and air-fried along with the sprouts for extra flavor.
• Are these healthy? Yes! Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, making this a much healthier way to enjoy Brussels sprouts while still achieving that desirable crispy texture. They are packed with vitamins and fiber.
• How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover cooked Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.