Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, Easy Recipe

Are you ready to transform your relationship with Brussels sprouts? Gone are the days of mushy, bland sprouts. With the magic of the air fryer, you can achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional roasting methods. This easy recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, holiday meals, or any occasion where you crave a healthy and delicious side dish. Get ready to fall in love with air fryer Brussels sprouts!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe

• Effortless Crispy Texture: Achieve that coveted crispiness without deep frying, thanks to the air fryer’s circulating hot air.
• Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Minimal Cleanup: The air fryer requires minimal cleanup compared to oven roasting.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a guilt-free side dish.
• Versatile Flavor: Easily customizable with different seasonings and toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple recipe uses just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to make the crispiest, most delicious air fryer Brussels sprouts:

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim off the tough ends and remove any yellow or wilted outer leaves. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise (or into quarters if they’re particularly large).
2. Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure that each sprout is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. You can add any other optional seasonings at this stage too.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the sprouts from getting crispy. If necessary, cook in batches.
4. Air Fry: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sprouts are tender on the inside and crispy and browned on the outside. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
5. Serve: Carefully remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer basket and serve immediately. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Printable Recipe Card

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Follow these expert tips to ensure your air fryer Brussels sprouts are always perfect:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, resulting in soggy sprouts. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer for a few minutes can help achieve a crispier texture.
• Don’t Skimp on Oil: The olive oil helps the sprouts get crispy and flavorful. Ensure each sprout is well coated.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of your sprouts. Check for doneness and adjust cooking time as needed. The sprouts should be tender when pierced with a fork and nicely browned.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season your sprouts generously. Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
• Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures that the sprouts cook evenly.
• Add a Finishing Touch: Consider drizzling your cooked sprouts with balsamic vinegar, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a touch of maple syrup for extra flavor.

Flavor Variations: Customizing Your Brussels Sprouts

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Balsamic Glazed: Toss the cooked sprouts with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan: Add minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a savory, cheesy twist.
• Lemon Pepper: Use lemon pepper seasoning instead of regular salt and pepper for a bright and zesty flavor.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
• Maple Dijon: Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a touch of olive oil, then toss with the cooked sprouts.
• Asian-Inspired: Toss the sprouts with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic for an Asian-inspired flair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to thaw and pat them dry before tossing them with oil and seasonings for the best results.

How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?

The sprouts should be tender when pierced with a fork and nicely browned and crispy on the outside.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them and tossing them with oil and seasoning ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container and cook them just before serving. However, to ensure maximum crispiness, avoid cooking them ahead of time.

Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or canola oil, instead of olive oil.

My sprouts are still soft, what do I do?

If your sprouts aren’t crispy enough, try increasing the cooking time by a few minutes, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. You may also try increasing the temperature of the air fryer by 10-20 degrees.

Nutritional Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of:

• Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
• Vitamin C: Supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
• Fiber: Promotes healthy digestion.
• Folate: Essential for cell growth and development.
• Antioxidants: Help protect against cell damage.

Incorporating Brussels sprouts into your diet is a great way to boost your overall health and well-being.

Perfect Pairings for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Main Courses: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, steak, or tofu.
• Holiday Meals: An excellent addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
• Grain Bowls: Add to a grain bowl with quinoa, chickpeas, and roasted vegetables.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Include in a vegetarian main course with other roasted vegetables and legumes.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish. The crispy texture and flavorful results will make even the most ardent Brussels sprout skeptics a convert. Try this recipe tonight and experience the magic of air frying for yourself!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family and leave a comment below. Happy cooking!