These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are crunchy on the outside and tender inside, bringing out their natural sweetness. They’re quick to make and super tasty!
I love adding some garlic powder for an extra kick! Plus, the air fryer means I can enjoy them without a ton of oil—so good and guilt-free!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm and bright green Brussels sprouts. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen sprouts work too—just let them thaw first. You can also try cutting them into smaller or larger pieces according to your preference.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. If you’re looking to reduce calories, consider using a spray oil instead!
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you love fresh garlic, feel free to substitute with 1-2 minced garlic cloves. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid burning.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional, but it adds a cheesy flavor. For dairy-free options, try nutritional yeast for a similar taste or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Crispy Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer?
Getting your Brussels sprouts crispy is all about preparation and technique. Start by trimming and halving the sprouts, making sure to coat them evenly in oil and spices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the basket. Overcrowding will cause steaming, not crisping.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning and avoid sogginess.
- Keep an eye on them during the last minutes; they can go from crispy to burnt quickly.
Following these tips will give you deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts that are hard to resist!
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 5 minutes for prep and around 15-18 minutes for cooking in the air fryer, making the total time roughly 25 minutes. So, you can have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is important as it helps the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large mixing bowl, take your halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle them with the olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are well coated in the oil and seasoning.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the seasoned Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure they get crispy. If you have a lot, it’s better to work in batches rather than overcrowding the basket.
4. Air Fry to Perfection:
Cook the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer for about 15-18 minutes. Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through to make sure they cook evenly and get that nice brown color!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are nice and crispy, take the Brussels sprouts out and transfer them to a serving bowl. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It’s best to let them sit in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten things up, you can reduce the olive oil to just 1 tablespoon or use a spray oil. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the fat.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper for heat, or even balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. You can toss in chopped bacon or nuts for added texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness, or you can use a microwave, though they might not be as crispy.
