Crispy Air-Fried Brussels Sprouts

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Ah, Brussels sprouts! I remember the first time I discovered their crispy, delicious potential. It was one chilly evening in my cozy kitchen, and the aroma of roasted goodness filled the air as I experimented with my air fryer. I popped in a batch of those little green gems, tossing them in olive oil and spices. Little did I know, I was about to unlock a treasure trove of flavor in just a fraction of the time it takes to traditionally roast them! When I took that first bite, the crunch was heavenly—so satisfying—and the nutty, caramelized edges contrasted beautifully with the tender middle. Oh, my goodness! The smell wafted throughout the house, and before I knew it, family members were wandering into the kitchen, lured by the fragrant char of those crispy Brussels sprouts.

If you love easy, healthy dishes that practically sing with flavor, trust me—these Crispy Air-Fried Brussels Sprouts will earn a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Just toss, air fry, and voilà—brussels sprouts done in under 20 minutes!
• Healthful: Packed with nutrients, these bites are low in calories and high in fiber.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of crispy edges and a tender bite is simply irresistible, especially with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for one or entertaining guests, everyone will rave about these crunchy beauties!
• Versatile: Perfect as a side, a light snack, or even a salad topping.

Ingredients

• Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts. Keep them fresh by giving them a rinse before using!
• Olive Oil: This helps crisp up those sprouts in the air fryer. A drizzle keeps them moist and delicious.
• Salt: Pinch it generously! It enhances all the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a beautiful warmth and enhances those crispy edges.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a delightful cheesy note as it melts onto the warm sprouts. Yum!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will give your Brussels sprouts that lovely crispy texture.

2. Trim and Halve the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends and slice those sprout beauties in half. This allows for even cooking and maximizes their crispy surfaces. Smell that fresh, grassy aroma? Heaven!

3. Toss with Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper. Use your hands to toss them gently until every sprout is coated. Trust me; you’ll want to feel every texture!

4. Air Fry the Sprouts

Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure maximum crispiness.

5. Cook Until Crispy

Air fry those sprouts for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Open your air fryer halfway through—oh, that incredible aroma is sure to make your mouth water!

6. Add Parmesan and Serve

Once they’re perfectly crispy and tender, take them out and sprinkle with yummy Parmesan cheese while they’re still hot. Serve warm, and enjoy the crunch!

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook them in batches if needed, for that perfect crispiness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for an added kick!
• Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own for a creamier melt, or use a vegan option for a dairy-free take.
• Use Equal Sizes: Invest a little time to make sure your Brussels sprouts are similar in size. This ensures even cooking.

Flavor Variations

• Garlic Lovers: Toss in minced garlic before air frying for a deliciously aromatic twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of zing!
• Autumn Flavors: In the fall, toss with maple syrup or balsamic vinegar for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these crispy sprouts alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as a topping on creamy polenta. They’re a wonderful addition to a holiday table too! Plating them in a simple white bowl allows those beautiful golden-brown edges to shine through. Need a drink? A crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements this dish oh-so-well.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the Brussels sprouts by washing and trimming them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Cooked sprouts can last 3-4 days in the fridge. Just make sure they’re cooled before sealing!

Leftovers

Transform leftover sprouts into a delicious frittata or toss them into a salad with some fresh greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. They add a lovely crunch!

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts, but I recommend freezing them before cooking for the best texture. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to use them!

Reheating

For the best reheating results, toss them back into the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F until warmed through. You can also use a skillet over medium heat to refresh those crispy edges.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh sprouts yield the best texture, you can use frozen ones. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or try a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook them in batches for that crispy texture, and adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem! You can roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they’re crispy and golden.

Final Thoughts

Darlings, there’s something simply magical about a warm kitchen filled with the scent of crispy Brussels sprouts. I promise that once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your home too. So preheat that air fryer, embrace the quirky beauty of Brussels sprouts, and let your kitchen fill with warmth and deliciousness. Happy cooking!

Love and tasty vibes,
Chef Emily 🌿