Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with a delicious roasted flavor. They cook up quickly, making them a perfect side dish!
These little green gems are so tasty, you might just forget they’re healthy! I love tossing them with a bit of olive oil and salt before air frying for the best crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. Look for vibrant green ones without yellowing leaves. If you can’t find them, broccoli florets or cauliflower are good substitutes for a similar texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps achieve that crispiness. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer a different taste or have dietary restrictions.
Kosher Salt: This is my go-to for seasoning. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, try using sea salt or a salt substitute, but adjust according to your taste!
Balsamic Vinegar/Lemon Juice: These add a bright finish. If you’re not keen on these flavors, a splash of apple cider vinegar or even a touch of soy sauce can work well.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a nice cheesy flavor. For a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy!
How Do I Get My Brussels Sprouts Extra Crispy?
Getting perfect crispy Brussels sprouts is key, and it starts with preparation. Toss them well to coat, and ensure they’re in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for even cooking.
- Half those Brussels sprouts to allow more surface area for crisping.
- Shake or stir them halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness—look for a nice golden color and that delightful crunch.
If they aren’t as crispy as you like, just let them cook for a few more minutes. Don’t rush this part; crispy is where all the magic happens!
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (for finishing)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and 15-18 minutes of cook time in the air fryer. Altogether, you can enjoy these delicious Brussels sprouts in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This should take about 3-5 minutes, and it helps to cook the Brussels sprouts evenly right from the start.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
While the air fryer heats up, take your Brussels sprouts and trim them. Cut the stem end off and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Then, slice each sprout in half lengthwise. This helps them cook and crisp up better!
3. Toss with Seasonings:
In a mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle in the olive oil, then sprinkle the kosher salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated. We want to ensure every bit is well seasoned!
4. Air Fry in Batches:
Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them; this way, they’ll cook evenly and get nice and crispy. If you have a lot, consider cooking them in batches.
5. Cook Them Up:
Air fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes. Halfway through cooking, take a moment to shake the basket or give the sprouts a stir. This ensures that they brown evenly all around and get that delicious crunch!
6. Check for Crispy Goodness:
After the time is up, check the doneness of the Brussels sprouts. They should be tender on the inside and have a crispy, golden-brown exterior. If they need a little more time, feel free to air fry them for an extra couple of minutes.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
For an extra zing, you can drizzle the cooked Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss them gently to coat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy Brussels sprouts hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this tasty, healthy side dish with your favorite meal!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your crispy, caramelized Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they might not get as crispy as fresh ones. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just toss them directly in the air fryer. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you prefer not to use olive oil, feel free to substitute it with avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or even melted coconut oil. Each will give a delicious result while adding its own unique flavor.
How Can I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again!
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or Parmesan cheese to the mix before cooking. For a kick, try sprinkling on some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
