Introduction to the Recipe
If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, you’ve never had them crisped to golden perfection in an air fryer. These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and take only minutes to make. With just five simple ingredients, this recipe proves that healthy sides can also be addictively delicious.
Air frying gives Brussels sprouts a caramelized edge and satisfying crunch without needing a deep fryer or tons of oil. The secret? A hot, circulating blast of air and a light coating of extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, and seasoning. It turns this once-feared veggie into a total flavor bomb.
Perfect as a weeknight side dish or a quick snack, these sprouts are endlessly adaptable. You can toss them in balsamic glaze, parmesan, chili flakes, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory hit. But the base recipe? Simple, clean, and ridiculously good.
Want to level up your air frying game? Learn How to Use an Air Fryer Like a Pro or explore Top Seasoning Combos for Vegetables.
Whether you love Brussels or are just learning to appreciate them, this air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe might convert even the biggest skeptics.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts (Crispy & Easy)
Description
Crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts made with garlic, olive oil, and seasoning. Fast, healthy, and irresistibly crunchy every time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the sprouts: Trim the ends and halve the Brussels sprouts. If very large, quarter them for even cooking.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set air fryer to 375°F and let it heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Cook: Add Brussels sprouts to the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and browned at the edges.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches for best results.
For extra crunch, add an extra 1–2 minutes to cook time.
Try finishing with lemon zest or a balsamic drizzle for added brightness.
Advanced Techniques
Blanch First for Tender Texture
For ultra-tender centers, blanch Brussels sprouts in boiling water for 3 minutes before air frying. Drain and dry completely, then season and cook. This technique ensures soft centers with crispy edges.
Finish with a High-Heat Roast
Want a restaurant-style char? After air frying, throw the sprouts under the broiler for 2 minutes. This adds intense crisping and a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Use a Marinade for Bold Flavor
Toss sprouts in a marinade of soy sauce, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard before air frying. Let sit for 15 minutes to soak up the flavors. The result is sweet, salty, and tangy all in one bite.
Add Nuts or Seeds for Crunch
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts. They toast perfectly and add an extra layer of texture and richness.
Toss with Cheese Right After Frying
As soon as the sprouts come out hot, toss with finely grated parmesan or nutritional yeast. The heat melts the cheese slightly for a savory finish.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Refrigerate for Up to 3 Days
Store cooled Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the Air Fryer
Avoid the microwave. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to revive crispiness.
Freeze for Long-Term Storage
Spread cooked sprouts on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Store Without Sauce
If adding balsamic glaze or other sauces, store it separately. Reheat sprouts dry and add sauces after for best texture.
Keep Moisture Low
Dry your sprouts thoroughly before cooking or storing. Moisture leads to sogginess and ruins the crisp.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Make It Oil-Free
Skip the oil and use a few spritzes of vegetable broth or water to help seasoning stick. The result will be slightly less crispy but still tasty.
Low-Sodium Version
Reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon and add lemon juice or vinegar after cooking for a pop of flavor without extra sodium.
Add Protein with Toppings
Top your sprouts with a sprinkle of hemp seeds, crispy chickpeas, or a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a protein boost.
Vegan and Paleo-Friendly by Default
This recipe is naturally vegan, paleo, and Whole30-compatible. No adjustments needed unless you add cheese.
Swap Seasonings for Global Flavors
Try curry powder, smoked paprika, za’atar, or everything bagel seasoning to change up the flavor profile easily.
FAQs About the Recipe
Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?
Overcrowding or not drying them fully before cooking are common reasons. Make sure they’re dry and cook in a single layer.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but they may be softer. Thaw and pat them dry before cooking. Increase cook time by a couple of minutes for better crisp.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
It helps. Preheating ensures the sprouts hit hot air right away, which helps crisp them faster.
Can I cut them ahead of time?
Yes. Trim and halve them up to 2 days in advance. Store in a sealed bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
What goes well with air fryer Brussels sprouts?
Serve them with roasted chicken, pork chops, grain bowls, or toss them in a salad with dried cranberries and nuts.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are the kind of side dish that feels like a snack. They’re fast, easy, and wildly customizable. With minimal prep and just a handful of pantry ingredients, you get crispy, crave-worthy veggies that hold their own on any plate.
The real win here is balance: crispy edges, soft centers, and seasoning that complements without overpowering. They also fit a wide range of diets and can be endlessly adapted to fit your mood or your main dish. Throw in bold spices, sweet glazes, or crunchy toppings and you’ve got a new dish every time.
If you’re looking for a fast way to make vegetables exciting, this is it. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just trying to clean out the fridge, don’t sleep on these sprouts. Once you start air frying them, you won’t go back.