Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: 28-Minute Delight

Name: Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: 28-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved; 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts! They’re crispy, flavorful, and honestly, they could steal the show on your dinner table. I remember the first time I made them; my kids, who usually turn their noses up at anything green, were gobbling them up like they were popcorn. It’s a total game changer! The air fryer works its magic, giving these little gems a perfect crunch while keeping them tender inside.

air fryer balsamic brussel sprouts - detail 1

What I love about this recipe is how quick and healthy it is. With just a handful of ingredients, you’re on your way to a side dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Seriously, it takes only about 28 minutes from prep to plate! You’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket for busy weeknights or even for entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try these air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts:

1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved: Look for fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green. Halve them for that perfect crispy texture!
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar: This adds a rich, tangy flavor that really makes each bite pop. Use a good quality balsamic for the best results!
2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully in the air fryer while adding a lovely depth of flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder: A must-have for that savory kick! Feel free to use fresh garlic if you prefer—just mince a clove or two.
Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors. Start with a pinch and adjust as you like!
Pepper to taste: A few cracks of fresh black pepper will elevate the dish even more.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re just moments away from a tasty and healthy side that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, we need to get that air fryer preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. Trust me, this step is super important because it ensures your Brussels sprouts start cooking right away, giving them that amazing crispy texture we all love. While it’s heating, you can get your ingredients ready.

Combine the Ingredients

Now, grab a mixing bowl and toss in the halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part—get in there and toss everything together until those little sprouts are evenly coated in that delicious mixture. You want every piece to be glistening with flavor! If you notice some sprouts are a little shy on the goodness, just give them a bit more love. This step is key to ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Air Frying Process

Once everything’s well mixed, it’s time to load up the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer—this helps them crisp up evenly. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches. Set the timer for 15-18 minutes, and don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This little shake is crucial for that golden-brown finish! Keep an eye on them towards the end; if you like them extra crispy, feel free to add a few more minutes. Just remember, they should be tender inside and perfectly crisp on the outside.

Final Touches

When you pull those beauties out of the air fryer, give them a quick check for crispness. They should be sizzling and slightly browned. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It adds a fantastic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the balsamic! Serve them warm, and get ready for the compliments!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in these scrumptious air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts! Each serving (about 1 cup) packs a punch with approximately:

Calories: 120
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 200mg

These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of how healthy this side dish is! With a good amount of fiber and protein, they make for a nutritious addition to your meal. Enjoy guilt-free, and remember, the best part is that they taste amazing too!

FAQ About Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Got questions about making these air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but I recommend thawing and draining them first. Frozen sprouts tend to retain more moisture, which might affect that crispy texture we’re aiming for. Fresh is best for that perfect crunch!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for about 3 days. Just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to get that crisp back!

Can I make these Brussels sprouts spicy?

Absolutely! If you like a little heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the balsamic mixture. It adds a lovely kick that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar.

What can I serve with these Brussels sprouts?

These air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish for anything! They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty quinoa salad. You can even toss them into a grain bowl for a delicious lunch!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, and if you skip the parmesan cheese, you’ve got a delicious plant-based side dish that everyone can enjoy. The balsamic vinegar and olive oil provide plenty of flavor without any animal products.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 28 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious side dish even on the busiest of nights!
Crispy and Flavorful: The air fryer gives these Brussels sprouts a perfect crunch while the balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tang.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, these sprouts are a great source of fiber and vitamins, making them a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Customizable: Feel free to spice things up or add your favorite cheese for an extra flavor boost!
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist these tasty little bites, making them a hit at family dinners.

Trust me, once you try these air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Tips for Success

To make sure your air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:

Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts make all the difference! Look for ones that are firm and bright green. The better the ingredients, the better your dish will taste.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: If you’re making a larger batch, cook them in batches instead of piling them all in at once. This helps ensure every sprout gets that crispy finish.
Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Keep an eye on your sprouts, especially towards the end of cooking. If they’re smaller or larger than average, you might need to tweak the cooking time a bit.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to play around with the spices! Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or lemon zest can elevate the flavor even more.

With these tips, you’ll be a Brussels sprout expert in no time! Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of dishes! They pair beautifully with juicy roasted chicken or turkey, adding a vibrant green touch to your meal. If you’re in the mood for seafood, serve them alongside grilled salmon or tilapia for a delightful flavor combination. They also work wonderfully in a grain bowl with quinoa, brown rice, or farro, topped with some feta or avocado.

For a more casual vibe, consider serving them with a hearty pasta dish or even as part of a Thanksgiving spread. And don’t forget about drinks! A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light craft beer can enhance the flavors perfectly. Trust me, these Brussels sprouts will elevate any meal, making it feel special and satisfying!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers of these delicious air fryer balsamic Brussels sprouts (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), here’s how to store them properly. First, let the sprouts cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in the air fryer! Just set it to about 350°F (175°C) and heat them for 5-7 minutes. This will help restore that wonderful crispiness. You could also use a microwave, but be warned—it won’t give you that same delightful crunch. So, trust me, stick with the air fryer for leftovers that taste almost as amazing as when they were first cooked!