Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Introduction

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy this often-overlooked vegetable. The air fryer gives them a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and caramelized. With minimal oil and a fraction of the time it takes to roast them in the oven, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a quick, easy, and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious addition to a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side for a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

The natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts mellows out in the air fryer, transforming them into crispy, golden bites that are bursting with flavor. Tossed in olive oil, garlic, and seasoning, these Brussels sprouts are irresistibly savory and lightly charred, making them a perfect accompaniment to everything from chicken and fish to pasta and rice. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a guilt-free treat.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Quick and Easy: The air fryer cooks Brussels sprouts in just 15 minutes, making them a speedy side dish that requires minimal prep time. You don’t need to wait for the oven to preheat, so you can have crispy Brussels sprouts on the table in no time.
• Crispy and Tender Texture: The hot air circulation of the air fryer ensures that the Brussels sprouts come out crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside. The result is a perfect balance of textures in every bite.
• Healthy and Nutritious: With minimal oil, these Brussels sprouts are a healthier alternative to deep-frying or roasting. They are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.
• Customizable Seasoning: You can easily adjust the seasoning of these Brussels sprouts to suit your preferences. Whether you like them savory with garlic and parmesan or spicy with a touch of red pepper flakes, the possibilities are endless.
• Versatile: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are an excellent side dish for any meal, whether you’re serving them with roasted meats, seafood, or a plant-based dish. They also work well as a snack or appetizer for a party or get-together.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 90-110 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 90-110 kcal
• Fat: 7-8g
• Carbohydrates: 8-10g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or preferred oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for drizzling after cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts. Cut off the tough stem ends, and remove any discolored outer leaves. Then, slice each Brussels sprout in half vertically, from top to bottom. If some of the sprouts are larger, you can cut them into quarters to ensure uniform cooking.

It’s important to make sure the Brussels sprouts are the same size to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer. If you have very small Brussels sprouts, you can leave them whole, but halving them will allow for more crispy edges and quicker cooking.

2. Season the Brussels Sprouts

Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Toss the Brussels sprouts to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. The oil helps the sprouts crisp up in the air fryer, while the seasonings add flavor.

If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can also add extra spices like smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or even a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary. You can customize the seasonings to match your tastes.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

While you’re prepping the Brussels sprouts, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and become nice and crispy. Some air fryers don’t require preheating, but if yours does, this step helps ensure the perfect texture.

4. Arrange the Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer Basket

Once your Brussels sprouts are seasoned, arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can cause the Brussels sprouts to cook unevenly. If necessary, cook them in batches to allow enough space for the air to circulate properly around each piece.

If you have a smaller air fryer, consider doing 2-3 batches. The Brussels sprouts should not be stacked on top of one another to ensure maximum crispiness.

5. Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts

Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the Brussels sprouts for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides. The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and slightly charred on the edges when done.

If you prefer your Brussels sprouts extra crispy, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to overcook them as they can burn quickly.

6. Add Optional Toppings and Serve

Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer. You can add an optional drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

For a more indulgent treat, sprinkle the Brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese while they’re still hot so it melts over them. The cheese adds a savory, salty flavor that complements the crispy Brussels sprouts perfectly.

Serve the Brussels sprouts immediately while they’re warm and crispy. They make a great side dish for any meal, or you can enjoy them on their own as a healthy snack.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, make sure the Brussels sprouts are arranged in a single layer. Overcrowding can cause the sprouts to steam rather than crisp up, resulting in a less desirable texture.
• Cut Brussels Sprouts Evenly: To ensure even cooking, it’s important to cut the Brussels sprouts into uniform pieces. If some are larger than others, consider cutting them into smaller pieces to ensure they all cook at the same rate.
• Season Well: Brussels sprouts can be a bit bland on their own, so make sure to season them generously. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings—garlic, lemon zest, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add great flavor.
• Adjust the Cooking Time for Different Sizes: The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts. If you have larger sprouts, you may need to cook them for a bit longer. Conversely, smaller sprouts will cook more quickly, so keep an eye on them.
• Shake the Basket: To ensure even crisping, shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time. This helps the Brussels sprouts cook uniformly on all sides.

Variations of Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: After cooking the Brussels sprouts, sprinkle them with freshly grated parmesan cheese and minced garlic. The cheese will melt into the sprouts, adding a rich, savory flavor.
• Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle the cooked Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey for a sweet and tangy glaze. This adds a nice contrast to the savory Brussels sprouts.
• Spicy Brussels Sprouts: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the Brussels sprouts before cooking. This will give them a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture.
• Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: For a sweet twist, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with maple syrup after cooking. The syrup will caramelize on the hot Brussels sprouts, giving them a sweet and savory flavor combination.
• Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts: For a heartier version, toss some cooked, crumbled bacon into the Brussels sprouts after they’re done cooking. The bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that elevates the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

While Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later.

• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the Brussels sprouts back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to crisp them up again. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy.
• Freezing: Although Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them after cooking. Let them cool completely, then spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat from frozen, cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts pair well with a wide variety of dishes, making them a versatile side dish for any meal. Here are a few pairing ideas:

• Roasted Chicken: Serve the Brussels sprouts alongside roasted or grilled chicken for a simple, healthy dinner. The crispy sprouts complement the tender chicken beautifully.
• Salmon or Fish: The mild flavor of fish pairs well with the savory Brussels sprouts. Try serving them with a grilled fillet of salmon or tilapia for a light and flavorful meal.
• Steak: Brussels sprouts are an excellent side for steak. Their crispy texture and savory flavor balance the richness of a grilled or pan-seared steak.
• Pasta: Add these Brussels sprouts to a pasta dish for an extra boost of flavor. They pair particularly well with creamy pasta dishes or a pasta primavera.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve the Brussels sprouts with a fragrant rice pilaf to make a wholesome, well-rounded meal.

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Conclusion

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a quick, easy, and nutritious side dish that everyone will enjoy. The air fryer crisps them to perfection while keeping them tender on the inside, and the minimal oil keeps them light. With customizable seasoning options and endless pairing possibilities, this dish is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy Brussels sprouts.

Whether you’re serving them as a side for a weeknight dinner or as part of a festive spread, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are sure to become a go-to recipe. Try them out today for a crispy, flavorful dish that’s as healthy as it is satisfying!