These crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a tasty side dish that’s quick and easy to make. Tossed with just a bit of oil and seasoning, they get nice and crunchy!
Honestly, who knew you could have so much fun with veggies? I love serving these with dinner, and they disappear faster than I can say “Brussels sprouts!” 😄
Making them in the air fryer is a breeze! Just a few minutes in there, and I’m enjoying a healthy snack without much fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for this recipe. When selecting, choose firm sprouts that are bright green. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts—just don’t thaw them before cooking!
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances flavor and crispiness. If you’re looking for a different taste or need a high smoke point, avocado oil is an excellent substitute. It works great in high-heat cooking.
Garlic Powder: This adds a bit of flavor punch, but if you prefer fresh, minced garlic works too. Just toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid burning.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a delightful savory finish. If you’re dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that’s plant-based.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Brussels Sprouts?
To achieve that perfect crispiness, a few simple steps make a big difference. It’s all about moisture control and even cooking.
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
- Coat them lightly with oil to help them crisp up, but don’t drown them! Less is more.
- Shake the air fryer basket halfway through to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; give them space to breathe, so air circulates freely.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts in no time!
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 salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. So you can enjoy crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts in just about 20 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps to ensure that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim the tough ends off. Then, slice each sprout in half lengthwise to make sure they cook thoroughly.
3. Season the Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Mix them well to ensure every sprout is coated nicely.
4. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the seasoned Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 12-15 minutes. Make sure to give the basket a good shake halfway through to promote even cooking and crunchiness.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra flavor. Serve them immediately while they are hot and crispy!
Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts as a fabulous side dish or a healthy snack anytime! They’re flavorful and easy to prepare—what’s not to love? 😊
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! Just make sure they are thawed and pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps prevent them from becoming soggy in the air fryer.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil or grapeseed oil are great alternatives since they also have high smoke points. You can even use melted coconut oil for a different flavor twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, toss them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crunchy.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Chili powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs can add a nice twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts to match your taste preference!
