Learn how to quickly make the tender yet crispy and crunchy Brussels Sprouts using an air fryer! This simple recipe results in Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are just as irresistible as deep-fried Brussels sprouts, minus the fat!
If you have an air fryer, you likely have already fallen in love with recipes like Air Fryer Potatoes and Air Fryer Chicken Wings, but is it possible to duplicate the irresistible flavor and texture of roasted Brussels Sprouts using an air fryer?
Oh yes, it is! Made with just a tiny bit of oil and the magic of the air fryer, these Air Fryer Brussels sprouts get crispy on the outside and yet tender on the inside. They are just downright delicious!
Notes on Ingredients & Equipment
- Brussels Sprouts: Use fresh, whole Brussels sprouts for best results.
- Oil: You only need a tiny bit of oil for this recipe. Feel free to use olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil.
- Salt & Pepper: Use kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Acid: To make the flavors really pop, drizzle the Brussels Sprouts with fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar after air frying.
- Air Fryer: This recipe for Brussels sprouts will work with any model air fryer you have. Keep in mind you may need to work in batches if you have a compact air fryer.
Flavoring Suggestions
- Add Cheese: After air frying, top the Brussels sprouts with grated parmesan, crumbled feta, or goat cheese.
- Sweet & Spicy: Before air frying, add 2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Air fry as directed. Alternatively, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with hot honey after air frying.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle dried cranberries and/or chopped nuts over the Air Fried Brussels Sprouts.
Tips for The Best Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
The following tips are provided to help you achieve perfect results. You will find the detailed instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Briefly microwave the Brussels sprouts. This will help to soften the interior of the Brussels sprouts so they will be tender on the interior, without burning them in the air fryer. By all means, skip this step if you prefer your sprouts on the more crisp side.
- Dry well. Whether you partially cook the Brussels sprouts in the microwave or not, be sure to pat the Brussels sprouts dry with a paper towel before adding the seasonings. This will help the seasonings adhere and allow the Brussels Sprouts to crisp up.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer. Try not to allow much overlap of the Brussels Sprouts in the air fryer. You want to allow room for the air to evenly circulate and for the Brussels Sprouts to cook up evenly. It is better to work in batches than overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Shake often. Shaking the basket several times throughout air frying allows the Brussels sprouts to crisp evenly.
- Finish with acid. Drizzling your Brussels sprouts with fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar is optional but the acidity will take the flavor of these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are the perfect side dish for Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin or Instant Pot Brats or add a delicious contrast of texture and flavor to grain bowls or salads, like Butternut Squash Salad. And don't forget, these crispy green gems make an easy Thanksgiving side dish as well!
Air Fry Frozen Brussels Sprouts
While it is entirely possible to air fry frozen whole Brussels sprouts, keep in mind that the interior will be much softer and the exterior, while it will crisp up, won't be to the extent that fresh Brussels Sprouts do.
To air-fry frozen Brussels sprouts, give the basket a spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place frozen Brussels sprouts directly into the air fryer in a single layer. Air fry at 375 degrees F for 8 minutes. Remove the basket, flip, and continue to air fry for another 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover air fryer Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat: To keep the Brussels sprouts crispy, reheat them by air frying for 3-4 minutes at 375 degrees F.
More Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes
- Air Fryer Cauliflower
- Air Fryer Asparagus
- Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
- Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
- Air Fryer Squash
If you tried these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, I would love for you to leave a comment and review.
How to Cook Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts
- ½ teaspoon olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or balsamic vinegar optional
Instructions
- If needed per your model of Air Fryer, preheat to 375℉.
- Wash the Brussels sprouts and any blemished outer leaves. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half.
- If you desire Brussels Sprouts, that are softer and tender, place the trimmed Brussels sprouts in a large microwave-safe bowl. Add a ½ cup of water and microwave for 2 minutes. Drain the Brussels sprouts and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Toss the halved Brussels Sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper to evenly coat the Brussels sprouts.
- Spread out the seasoned Brussels Sprouts evenly in the air fryer in a single layer. Air fry at 375℉ for 5 minutes, remove the basket, flip or shake the Brussels sprouts, return to the air fryer, and cook for another 5 minutes. Shake again and continue to air fry in 2-minute intervals until you reach your desired consistency.
- Drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic or serve warm.
Equipment Needed
Notes
- Add Cheese: After air frying, top the Brussels sprouts with grated parmesan, crumbled feta, or goat cheese.
- Sweet & Spicy: Before air frying, add 2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Air fry as directed. Alternatively, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with hot honey after air frying.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle dried cranberries and/or chopped nuts over the Air Fried Brussels Sprouts.
Betsy
Love this! I've pan fried brussel sprouts before, but this is so much easier and faster! I love to toss mine in a bit of maple syrup and add some bacon. Absolutely delicious!
Lily
This was such a simple recipe, makes for the perfect side for any weeknight when I need something super easy and quick!