These crispy Brussels sprouts made in the air fryer are a game changer! They turn golden brown and get a nice crunch, making them super tasty and fun to eat.
I can’t help but munch on them straight from the basket! 😄 Pair them with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra yum—trust me, you’ll love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh is best for flavor and texture. If you can’t find Brussels sprouts, try using green beans or cauliflower as a substitute, but the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or melted coconut oil work too. Both provide a nice flavor and are suitable for high heat.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give extra flavor. If you want to keep it simple, just salt and pepper work just fine. For a twist, consider adding balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a delicious cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can provide a similar taste without the cheese. You can also skip it altogether!
How Do You Get Brussels Sprouts Perfectly Crispy in the Air Fryer?
The secret to crispy Brussels sprouts lies in the way they’re prepared and cooked. Start by cutting them in half. This helps them cook evenly and allows for more surface area to get crispy. Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t skip the olive oil! It helps them brown and become crispy. Toss them well so every piece is coated.
- Preheat your air fryer. This sets the stage for excellent crispness.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Give them space to breathe, ensuring each sprout gets enough air circulation.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps them get that even crunchy texture all around.
- Watch the time! Depending on your air fryer and the size of the sprouts, they may need more or less time. Check for a tender inside and a crispy outside.
Enjoy your deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts — they’re great as a side or even as a snack!
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to enjoy these crispy Brussels sprouts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water to clean them. Trim off the hard ends of each sprout and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. This helps ensure that only the freshest part of the sprout is cooked.
2. Cut Them:
For even cooking, cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. If you have larger sprouts, feel free to quarter them to promote even browning and tenderness!
3. Seasoning Time:
In a mixing bowl, add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle them with olive oil, then sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Toss everything together to make sure each sprout is fully coated and seasoned.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
5. Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts:
Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; this allows them to cook evenly and become crispy. Air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through cooking to promote even crisping.
6. Check for Doneness:
When the Brussels sprouts are tender on the inside and have developed a crisp, browned exterior, they are ready. This is usually around the 15-20 minute mark, but you can cook them a bit longer for extra crispiness if desired!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once done, take them out of the air fryer and transfer to a serving bowl. If you like a touch of brightness, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sprouts and toss gently. For an indulgent twist, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts while they’re hot. They make a wonderful side dish or snack!
These Brussels sprouts are not only easy to prepare, but they also take on a beautifully caramelized, crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. A delicious, healthy addition to any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts in This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first. You can quickly defrost them in the microwave or leave them in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to soggy sprouts.
Can I Make These Brussels Sprouts Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and season the Brussels sprouts in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just give them a quick toss in the olive oil and seasonings right before cooking.
How to Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) to regain their crispiness!
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
If you’re looking to switch it up, try adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, lemon zest, or even a dash of balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
