Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Prepare to be amazed! Are you ready to transform those tiny cabbages from dreaded dinner guest to the star of the show? I’m talking about Brussels sprouts, and I’m about to show you how to make them irresistibly crispy and delicious using the magic of your air fryer. Forget everything you thought you knew about these often-maligned vegetables.

Brussels sprouts have a surprisingly rich history, dating back to ancient Rome. They gained popularity in Brussels, Belgium (hence the name!) and eventually made their way across the globe. While they’ve sometimes suffered from a reputation for being bitter or bland, that’s simply because they weren’t being cooked right!

The secret to truly amazing Brussels sprouts lies in achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. And that’s where the air fryer comes in. People adore air fryer Brussels sprouts because they’re incredibly quick and easy to make, requiring minimal oil and delivering maximum flavor. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even cooking and unparalleled crispiness, making them a healthy and satisfying side dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy this nutritious and versatile vegetable!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, for drizzling
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
• Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes, for heat

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our Brussels sprouts. This is a crucial step, so pay attention!

1. Wash the Brussels Sprouts: Give those little guys a good rinse under cold water. This will remove any dirt or debris. Don’t skip this step!
2. Trim the Ends: Using a sharp knife, trim off the very bottom of each Brussels sprout. This part can be a little tough and bitter, so we want to get rid of it.
3. Halve or Quarter: Now, depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts, you’ll either halve them or quarter them. If they’re on the smaller side, halving is fine. If they’re larger, quartering will help them cook more evenly in the air fryer. I usually prefer quartering for a crispier result.
4. Check for Loose Leaves: As you’re halving or quartering, some of the outer leaves might come loose. Don’t throw these away! They’ll get extra crispy in the air fryer and are like little Brussels sprout chips. Just make sure they’re not too small, or they might burn.
5. Dry Thoroughly: This is super important! The drier the Brussels sprouts, the crispier they’ll get. Use a clean kitchen towel or a salad spinner to remove as much moisture as possible. Trust me, this makes a huge difference.

Seasoning the Brussels Sprouts:

Now for the fun part – adding flavor! This is where we transform plain Brussels sprouts into something truly delicious.

1. Combine in a Bowl: Place the trimmed and dried Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Make sure you have enough room to toss them around without making a mess.
2. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the Brussels sprouts. Don’t be shy, but don’t overdo it either. We want them to be coated, but not swimming in oil. Two tablespoons is usually perfect.
3. Sprinkle with Spices: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. I love smoked paprika because it adds a nice smoky flavor, but you can use regular paprika if that’s what you have on hand.
4. Toss to Coat: Now, using your hands or a large spoon, toss the Brussels sprouts until they’re evenly coated with the olive oil and spices. Make sure every little piece gets some love.
5. Taste and Adjust: Give the Brussels sprouts a quick taste (before they go into the air fryer, of course!). Adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like things a little saltier, add a pinch more salt. If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Air Frying the Brussels Sprouts:

Alright, time to fire up the air fryer! This is where the magic happens.

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is important for even cooking and crispy results. Most air fryers have a preheat function, but if yours doesn’t, just let it run at 400°F for a few minutes before adding the Brussels sprouts.
2. Arrange in a Single Layer: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the basket, or they’ll steam instead of crisping up. If necessary, cook them in batches. This is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
3. Air Fry: Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact cooking time will depend on your air fryer and the size of your Brussels sprouts. Keep an eye on them and adjust the time as needed. You’re looking for them to be tender and nicely browned, with some crispy edges.
4. Shake the Basket: About halfway through the cooking time, shake the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. This will help the Brussels sprouts brown on all sides.
5. Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, check the Brussels sprouts for doneness. They should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a nice golden-brown color. If they’re not quite there yet, continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking frequently.

Serving and Optional Toppings:

Almost there! Now it’s time to serve and enjoy your delicious air fryer Brussels sprouts.

1. Transfer to a Bowl: Carefully transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Be careful, they’ll be hot!
2. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze (Optional): If you’re using balsamic glaze, drizzle it over the Brussels sprouts. This adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
3. Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese (Optional): If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the Brussels sprouts. The salty, nutty flavor of the Parmesan cheese is a great addition.
4. Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a little kick, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the Brussels sprouts immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer.

Tips for Extra Crispy Brussels Sprouts:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: I can’t stress this enough! Overcrowding the air fryer basket will lead to steamed, not crispy, Brussels sprouts. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Dry Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before seasoning them.
• Use Enough Oil: Olive oil helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount, but don’t overdo it.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that the Brussels sprouts start cooking immediately, which helps them crisp up faster.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Try different seasonings and toppings to find your favorite combination.

Variations:

• Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Substitute the balsamic glaze with maple syrup for a sweeter flavor.
• Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the Brussels sprouts before serving.
• Lemon Pepper Brussels Sprouts: Use lemon pepper seasoning instead of the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
• Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven or microwave, but they won’t be as crispy.

Enjoy!

There you have it! Perfectly crispy and delicious air fryer Brussels sprouts. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you try any variations. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest – if you’ve ever been on the fence about Brussels sprouts, this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe is about to change your life. Seriously! The crispy, caramelized edges, the tender interior, and the burst of flavor from the simple seasonings create a side dish that’s not just good, it’s downright addictive. Forget everything you thought you knew about these little green gems; this method unlocks their true potential.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality results without all the fuss. We’re talking minimal prep time, a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and a cooking process that’s virtually foolproof. Plus, the air fryer ensures even cooking and that perfect crispy texture that’s impossible to achieve in a conventional oven without a ton of oil. It’s a healthy and delicious way to get your veggies in!

But the best part? The versatility! These air-fried Brussels sprouts are fantastic as a simple side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They’re also incredible tossed into salads, added to grain bowls, or even served as a topping for pizzas or flatbreads.

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few serving suggestions and variations to get your creative juices flowing:

* Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze after cooking for a sweet and tangy twist.
* Maple Syrup and Bacon: Toss with a touch of maple syrup and crumbled bacon for a sweet and savory delight.
* Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, nutty flavor.
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
* Lemon and Garlic: Toss with lemon juice and minced garlic after cooking for a bright and zesty flavor.
* Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before air frying for a savory and crunchy topping.
* Honey Mustard: Toss with a honey mustard dressing after cooking for a sweet and tangy flavor.
* Sriracha Mayo: Serve with a side of sriracha mayo for dipping.

The possibilities are truly endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations.

I’m so confident that you’re going to love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. Seriously, what are you waiting for? Dust off that air fryer, grab some Brussels sprouts, and get ready to experience a culinary revelation.

And once you’ve made these amazing Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, I want to hear all about it! Share your photos, your variations, and your experiences in the comments below. Let me know what you think, what you loved, and what you might do differently next time. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do.

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July 1, 2025 by Melissa