Brussels sprouts air fryer: 5 Bold Tips for Crispy Perfection

Name: Brussels sprouts air fryer: 5 Bold Tips for Crispy Perfection
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Brussels sprouts – 1 lb; Olive oil – 2 tbsp; Salt – 1 tsp; Pepper – 1/2 tsp; Garlic powder – 1/2 tsp

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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If you haven’t tried making Brussels sprouts in an air fryer yet, you’re in for a real treat! These little green gems have taken the cooking world by storm, and for good reason. Cooking Brussels sprouts in an air fryer not only makes them crispy and flavorful but also cuts down on cooking time, which is always a win in my book! The air fryer gives these sprouts that delightful crunch, while still keeping their natural sweetness and nutrition intact. Trust me, once you’ve had them this way, you won’t want to go back to boiling or steaming.

This recipe is incredibly simple and requires just a handful of ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how just a little olive oil, salt, and garlic powder can elevate these veggies to a whole new level of deliciousness. Plus, the air fryer does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to whip up a tasty side dish in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these crispy Brussels sprouts will have everyone coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this air fryer magic!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these crispy Brussels sprouts in the air fryer. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb Brussels sprouts – Trimmed and halved for even cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oil – This will help achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the sprouts.
1/2 teaspoon pepper – Adds a touch of spice to balance the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Gives a savory depth that you won’t want to miss.

These simple ingredients come together beautifully, transforming your Brussels sprouts into a delicious side dish that’s hard to resist!

How to Prepare Brussels Sprouts in an Air Fryer

Cooking Brussels sprouts in an air fryer is incredibly simple and rewarding! Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a deliciously crispy side dish in no time. Let’s dive in!

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step that ensures even cooking and crispy results. Set your air fryer to a temperature of 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This little bit of patience will lead to perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts that you’ll just love!

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Now it’s time to prep those little green beauties! Start by trimming the ends of the 1 lb Brussels sprouts, removing any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Once trimmed, cut each sprout in half to promote even cooking and maximize crispiness. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Make sure every sprout is coated evenly in this flavorful mixture, as it’s the key to bringing out their delicious taste!

Cooking Instructions

Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer. This is important because it allows hot air to circulate freely around each sprout, giving them that satisfying crunch we all love. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes—if they’re not as crispy as you’d like, feel free to pop them back in for a couple more minutes. Once they’re golden brown and crispy, take them out, and serve them hot. You’ll be amazed at how quick and easy it is to make these tasty air-fried Brussels sprouts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Brussels sprouts air fryer recipe is a game changer, and here’s why you’re going to love it:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and 30 minutes, you can have a delicious side dish ready to go!
Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these Brussels sprouts an incredible crunch that you just can’t achieve with traditional cooking methods.
Flavor Packed: A delightful blend of olive oil, salt, and garlic powder elevates their natural sweetness, making them irresistible!
Health Benefits: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a nutritious addition to any meal.
Versatile: This recipe is a fantastic base that can be customized with your favorite seasonings or add-ins for endless variations.

Trust me, once you try these air-fried Brussels sprouts, they’ll become a go-to side dish on your table!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:

Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spices! A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of lemon zest can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Cooking Time: Keep in mind that the size of your Brussels sprouts can affect cooking time. If you have larger sprouts, they may need a few extra minutes, while smaller ones will cook faster. Just keep an eye on them!
Single Layer Cooking: Always arrange the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate evenly around each piece, ensuring that crispy texture we all crave.
Shake It Up: Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking! This little step helps them brown evenly and prevents any sticking.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of air-fried Brussels sprouts!

Variations

If you’re looking to jazz up your air-fried Brussels sprouts, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fun variations to try:

Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle your cooked Brussels sprouts with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with their natural earthiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, savory layer to your dish.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper with your seasonings. It’ll give your Brussels sprouts a delightful spicy kick!
Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup before cooking can add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Toss them in with the Brussels sprouts for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish.

These variations will not only keep things exciting but will also let you customize the flavor to match your mood or the meal. Have fun with it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Brussels sprouts properly will help maintain their deliciousness! First, let the cooked sprouts cool to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, but trust me, they might not last that long—they’re just too tasty!

When it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best friend again! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C), then arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they crisp up nicely. This method brings back that delightful crunch and flavor. You can also reheat them in the oven if you prefer, just remember to keep the temperature around 350°F (175°C) for the best results. Enjoy every last bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of these delicious air-fried Brussels sprouts:

Calories: 56
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 4 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 240 mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods. Enjoy the health benefits of this tasty side dish!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the best air-fried Brussels sprouts? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:

How do I adjust cooking time for bigger Brussels sprouts? If your sprouts are on the larger side, they might need an extra few minutes in the air fryer. Just keep checking for that perfect crispiness!
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them before seasoning. They may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the time accordingly.
What if I don’t have garlic powder? No problem! Fresh minced garlic works great too. Just toss it in with the sprouts, but be careful not to burn it during cooking.
Any tips for seasoning variations? Definitely! Try adding lemon zest for brightness or smoked paprika for a nice smoky flavor. Get creative with your favorite spices!

With these answers, you’re all set to tackle those Brussels sprouts like a pro!