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Learn how to quickly make tender yet crispy, crunchy Brussels sprouts in an air fryer using this simple recipe.
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! 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 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. Feel free to use olive, avocado, 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 Brussels sprouts recipe works with any air fryer model. 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.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Briefly microwave the Brussels sprouts. This helps soften the interior so they're tender inside without burning in the air fryer. By all means, skip this step if you prefer your sprouts crisper.
- Dry well, then season. Whether you partially cook the Brussels sprouts in the microwave or not, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding the oil and seasonings. This will help the seasonings adhere and let the Brussels sprouts crisp up.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer. Try not to let the Brussels sprouts overlap too much in the air fryer. Leave room for air to circulate evenly and for the Brussels Sprouts to cook evenly. Work in batches rather than overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Shake often. Shaking the basket several times during air frying helps the Brussels sprouts 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 that these crispy green greens make an easy Thanksgiving side dish as well.
How to Air Fry Frozen Brussels Sprouts
While you can air fry frozen whole Brussels sprouts, keep in mind the interior will be much softer, and the exterior, while it will crisp up, won't crisp as much as fresh Brussels sprouts.
Here's how to do it:
- Spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Toss frozen Brussels sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 375°F for 8 minutes. Remove the basket, flip, and continue to air fry for another 8 minutes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover air fryer Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: To keep the Brussels sprouts crispy, reheat them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 375°F.
More Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes
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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℉ (190℃).
- Wash the Brussels sprouts and remove any blemished outer leaves. Let them dry, then cut them 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 olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread out the seasoned Brussels Sprouts evenly in the air fryer in a single layer. Air fry at 375℉ (190℃) 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 vinegar, and serve warm.
Equipment
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.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Brussel sprouts are a favorite and the way they cooked up in the air fryer was perfection! I will be making them this way from now on!
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't get enough of these addictive, perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts. A must-try for anyone looking to elevate their veggie game!
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!
This was such a simple recipe, makes for the perfect side for any weeknight when I need something super easy and quick!