If you’re someone who loves crispy, flavorful vegetables, then Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts should definitely be on your radar. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a savory side dish to pair with your main meal, this recipe is an absolute game-changer. The air fryer transforms Brussels sprouts into the perfect crispy, golden-brown bites without all the oil and calories of traditional deep frying. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into why this recipe is so great, how to make it, and how to customize it for your personal taste preferences. So, if you’re ready to bring a crunchy and tasty vegetable side to your table, let’s get started!
Why Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts Are Perfect for You
Brussels sprouts are often seen as a polarizing vegetable—either you love them, or you don’t. But when you prepare them in the air fryer, they come out crispy, slightly caramelized, and incredibly flavorful, making them a hit with even the pickiest eaters. The air fryer uses hot air to cook food, producing that perfect crisp without the need for tons of oil. This method makes Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts a healthier option compared to deep-fried alternatives, while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or plant-based diet, these Brussels sprouts can be enjoyed by almost anyone. They’re also a great choice for meal prep or serving as a quick side dish when you’re short on time but want something nutritious and tasty. Plus, Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, so this recipe offers a healthy way to add some greens to your diet.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts
This recipe is simple, but it results in a big flavor payoff. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious crispy Brussels sprouts:
- Brussels sprouts (fresh, not frozen)
- Olive oil or avocado oil (for light coating)
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy touch)
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts
To make this recipe, you don’t need much in terms of kitchen tools. The air fryer does most of the work! Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need:
- Air fryer (any model will work)
- Knife and cutting board (for prepping the Brussels sprouts)
- A small bowl (to toss the Brussels sprouts with the oil and seasoning)
- Tongs or a spatula (to flip the Brussels sprouts halfway through cooking)
How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through the steps for making these crispy Brussels sprouts.
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Start by washing the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the stems and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking and to maximize crispiness. If some of the Brussels sprouts are much larger than others, you can cut them into quarters to ensure they all cook at the same rate.
Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts
Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil. Toss them well to ensure each sprout is coated evenly with the oil. This is crucial to achieving that crispy texture. Next, season the sprouts with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also add garlic powder if you want to introduce an extra layer of flavor. If you love cheesy Brussels sprouts, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Toss everything again to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
While you’re seasoning your Brussels sprouts, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get that crispiness you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow the hot air to circulate around each sprout. This will ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
Air fry the Brussels sprouts for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. This step is key to ensuring the Brussels sprouts are crisped all over. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the sprouts and the air fryer model, so keep an eye on them towards the end. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Brussels sprouts are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer. You can garnish them with a little extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish. Serve immediately and enjoy as a side dish, snack, or even a healthy addition to salads.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For maximum crispiness, it’s important not to overcrowd the Brussels sprouts. They need room for the hot air to circulate to achieve that golden, crispy texture. Cook them in batches if necessary.
- Try Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to make this dish your own. Smoked paprika, onion powder, or chili flakes are great options to add some extra flavor.
- Cut Even Pieces: Try to cut the Brussels sprouts into even halves or quarters so they cook at the same rate. This helps prevent overcooking some while others are still raw.
- Add Some Sweetness: If you like a sweet-savory combination, try drizzling the Brussels sprouts with a little balsamic glaze or honey after cooking for an extra pop of flavor.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can swap or add ingredients to mix things up:
- Cheese Lovers: If you enjoy a cheesy flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese over the Brussels sprouts before serving. This adds richness and an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegan Version: To keep this recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese and use a plant-based oil like avocado oil. You can also top the Brussels sprouts with vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast if you still want a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts before air frying to give them a little heat. Alternatively, you can drizzle some sriracha or hot sauce on top once they’re done cooking for an extra kick.
- Maple Syrup Glaze: For a sweet-salty contrast, drizzle a little maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts after air frying. This adds a beautiful caramelized finish to the dish.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they’re so tasty you might not!), here’s how to store them:
- In the Fridge: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can toss them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to regain their crispiness.
- Freezing: While Brussels sprouts can technically be frozen, they might lose some of their crispiness once reheated. If you plan to freeze them, it’s best to freeze them before cooking. Flash-freeze the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, you can air fry them directly from frozen, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Food and Drink Pairings
These crispy Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish with a variety of meals. Here are a few pairings that would complement them perfectly:
- Main Dishes: Serve these crispy Brussels sprouts with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled salmon. They also pair wonderfully with vegetarian dishes like quinoa bowls or stuffed peppers.
- Drinks: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Brussels sprouts. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon is perfect.
FAQ
Can I make these crispy Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to crisp them up again.
Do I need to blanch the Brussels sprouts before air frying?
No, blanching is not necessary. Simply trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then season them before air frying. The air fryer does all the work to cook them evenly and give them that crispy texture.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this recipe, as frozen Brussels sprouts tend to have more moisture and may not crisp up as well. However, if you must use frozen Brussels sprouts, cook them from frozen, and expect a slightly different texture.
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I hope you enjoy making these crispy Brussels sprouts as much as I do! They are a healthy, easy, and flavorful side dish that will impress everyone at your table. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Be sure to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips delivered straight to your inbox!
Happy cooking! 🍽️