Brussel Sprout Air Fryer Magic: 5 Steps to Crispy Bliss

Name: Brussel Sprout Air Fryer Magic: 5 Steps to Crispy Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb brussel sprouts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 15, 2025

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

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Ah, the air fryer! It’s like magic in the kitchen, turning ordinary ingredients into crispy, delicious bites with minimal fuss. When it comes to cooking brussel sprouts, I can’t rave enough about my trusty air fryer. You won’t believe how quickly they transform from raw little cabbages to golden, crispy nuggets of flavor. I remember the first time I made them for a dinner party; everyone was surprised at how amazing they tasted, and they disappeared in an instant! Trust me, once you try making brussel sprouts in the air fryer, you’ll never go back to boiling or steaming them again. They come out perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside—just the way they should be!

brussel sprout air fryer - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these crispy brussel sprouts shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb brussel sprouts: Look for fresh, firm sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or blemishes; they should feel heavy for their size.
2 tbsp olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for a rich flavor, but any good-quality olive oil will work.
1 tsp garlic powder: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor! You can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer a bolder taste.
1/2 tsp salt: Just enough to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. Adjust to your taste!
1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a nice little kick—don’t skip this part!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a side dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also utterly delicious!

How to Prepare Brussel Sprout Air Fryer

Now, let’s dive into how to make these crispy brussel sprouts in your air fryer! It’s super easy, and I promise you’ll be amazed at the results.

Preheat the Air Fryer

First thing’s first: don’t skip preheating your air fryer! This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This ensures your brussel sprouts start cooking evenly from the moment they hit the basket.

Prepare the Brussel Sprouts

Next, grab your fresh brussel sprouts and start trimming them. Cut off the tough ends and slice each sprout in half. This not only helps them cook faster but also allows for more surface area to get that delicious crispiness. Try to keep the halves uniform in size for even cooking—this makes a world of difference!

Mix Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring those brussel sprouts to life! In a big bowl, toss the halved sprouts with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix them thoroughly; this way, every sprout gets coated evenly, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite!

Cooking in the Air Fryer

Once your brussel sprouts are nicely coated, place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; this allows the hot air to circulate and gives them that delightful crunch. Set the timer for 15-18 minutes, and don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This little shake helps them cook evenly and prevents sticking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy!

Serving Suggestions

When your brussel sprouts are out of the air fryer, serve them hot right away for the best experience. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top or even a squeeze of lemon juice. Trust me, it elevates the dish to another level!

Tips for Success

To make sure your brussel sprouts turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, remember that air fryer models can vary, so keep an eye on your sprouts as they cook. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on how powerful your air fryer is. Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonings! Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. And if you love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really amp up the flavor. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Before we get started, a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. That said, here’s what you can typically expect per serving (1 cup) of these crispy brussel sprouts:

Calories: 120
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g

These nutritious little gems are not only delicious but also packed with fiber and vitamins, making them a fantastic side dish that you can feel good about serving!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen brussel sprouts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen brussel sprouts, but they might need a little extra cooking time to get crispy. Just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry before tossing them with oil and seasonings. This will help prevent them from getting soggy in the air fryer.

What can I serve with crispy brussel sprouts?

Crispy brussel sprouts pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes! They’re fantastic alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty quinoa salad. You could also serve them as a side with steak or pork chops for a comforting meal. The possibilities are endless!

How do I store leftover brussel sprouts?

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these crispy brussel sprouts ready in no time!
Easy Cleanup: The air fryer means less mess compared to traditional roasting methods, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavorful Results: The combination of garlic and olive oil brings out the natural sweetness of the brussel sprouts, creating an irresistible flavor.
Healthy Side Dish: Packed with nutrients and fiber, these sprouts make for a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Versatile: Perfect as a side for any protein or even tossed into salads for extra crunch!

Equipment List

To whip up these delicious crispy brussel sprouts, you’ll need just a few essential pieces of equipment:

Air Fryer: This is the star of the show! A reliable air fryer will give you those perfect crispy results.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for tossing the brussel sprouts with oil and seasonings.
Cutting Board and Knife: To trim and halve the brussel sprouts efficiently.
Measuring Spoons: For precise measurements of oil and seasonings.

With these tools in hand, you’re all set to create a fantastic side dish!