Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are the perfect way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful vegetable side dish with minimal effort. This easy recipe delivers golden edges, tender centers, and bold flavor in under 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them irresistible even for picky eaters. They’re quick to prepare, require simple ingredients, and are family-friendly. Plus, the optional toppings let you customize the flavor from sweet to savory.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
- Drizzle pomegranate molasses
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any brown outer leaves. Cut them in half; quarter large ones for even cooking.
- Optional: Soak sprouts in warm water for 10 minutes for a more tender center, then drain and pat dry.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 5 minutes, shake the basket, then cook another 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, shake again, and cook 2–4 more minutes until crispy.
- Transfer to a bowl, add toppings if desired, and serve hot.
Tips & Tricks
- Avoid overcrowding the basket for maximum crispiness.
- Cut evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Add garlic later to prevent burning.
- For extra crisp, cook an additional 1–2 minutes.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Notes
- Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Serve with grilled chicken, fish, or rice bowls.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 6g
FAQ
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and dry them well to avoid sogginess.
Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?
They may be overcrowded or not dried properly before cooking.
Can I make these without oil?
Yes, but they may be less crispy.
What toppings work best?
Balsamic glaze, maple syrup, and Parmesan are popular choices.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Cook slightly longer and ensure they are spaced out in the basket.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended as texture changes.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Crispy & Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
- Drizzle pomegranate molasses
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any brown outer leaves. Cut them in half; quarter large ones for even cooking.
- Optional: Soak sprouts in warm water for 10 minutes for a more tender center, then drain and pat dry.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 5 minutes, shake the basket, then cook another 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, shake again, and cook 2–4 more minutes until crispy.
- Transfer to a bowl, add toppings if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Serve with grilled chicken, fish, or rice bowls.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a simple yet delicious side dish you’ll want to make again and again. With crispy edges and customizable flavors, they’re perfect for any meal and guaranteed to impress.