Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are the crispy, golden bites you didn’t know you needed—until now. Whether you’re a lifelong sprout lover or still on the fence, this recipe transforms them into a snack-worthy side dish that’s full of flavor and crunch.

I started making these on busy weeknights when I needed something healthy yet satisfying that wouldn’t demand a lot of time or mess. The air fryer stepped in like a kitchen hero, turning humble Brussels sprouts into something my entire family craved. Whether it’s for a Sunday dinner or a weekday meal prep plan, this is one of those dishes that checks every box: simple, fast, healthy, and downright delicious.

Read on—you’re about to fall in love with Brussels sprouts all over again.

Why I Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another veggie recipe. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight.

What makes air fryer Brussels sprouts special is their perfect balance of crisp edges and tender centers. Roasting them in an oven takes time, but the air fryer gets the job done in a fraction of that—without sacrificing flavor or texture. They’re caramelized, nutty, and slightly sweet with just the right amount of char.

Another reason I love this dish is its versatility. You can toss them in balsamic glaze, sprinkle with Parmesan, or give them a spicy sriracha twist—whatever your palate desires. Plus, it’s a plant-based option that fits right into low-calorie or vegetarian diets without feeling like a compromise.

Whether you’re serving them with roast chicken, grilled steak, or just enjoying them as a snack, they hit the spot every time. You’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

You don’t need a fancy pantry to make magic here—just a few quality ingredients.

That’s what I love most: simplicity that delivers gourmet-level results. These Brussels sprouts are seasoned to perfection with a few pantry staples that enhance their natural flavor without overpowering it.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Brussels sprouts – Choose firm, green ones without yellowing leaves. Smaller sprouts are sweeter and roast up beautifully.
• Olive oil – A good drizzle helps them crisp up and caramelize.
• Salt – Just enough to bring out their earthy flavor.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild heat that balances the sweetness.
• Garlic powder (optional) – For a subtle kick of umami flavor.
• Balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional) – Adds brightness and depth after air frying.
• Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes (optional toppings) – For a gourmet finish.

Simple ingredients, but with big flavor potential.

How Much Time Will You Need

This recipe fits right into your busiest day.

You’ll need about 5 minutes of prep time—just trimming and seasoning. Then the air fryer takes about 15 minutes to work its magic. In total, you’re looking at 20 minutes from start to finish.

No preheating ovens. No long roasting times. Just fast, crispy goodness, ready before the rest of your dinner is even done.

How to Make This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Let’s break it down step-by-step so you know exactly what to do at every stage.

Step – 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the bottom ends and peel off any yellow or damaged outer leaves. If your sprouts are large, cut them in half for more even cooking. Smaller sprouts can be left whole.

Step – 2: Season Generously

In a large bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add garlic powder if you’re using it. Make sure each piece is coated well—this helps the seasoning stick and the outsides crisp up beautifully.

Step – 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps the sprouts start cooking immediately once they go in, giving you that crispy finish faster.

Step – 4: Arrange in the Basket

Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—this is key to even crisping. If you’re making a big batch, cook in two rounds.

Step – 5: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Cook the Brussels sprouts for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark—air fryer models vary, and you don’t want them to burn.

They should come out golden-brown on the edges and tender in the middle.

Step – 6: Add Final Touches

Transfer to a bowl and, while still hot, toss with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice. Optional but highly recommended for brightness. Add shaved Parmesan or chili flakes for extra depth.

Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Substitutions

This is one of those recipes you can customize endlessly depending on your pantry and dietary needs.

If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or grapeseed oil are excellent substitutes that still help the sprouts crisp up. They’re also neutral in flavor.

Instead of garlic powder, you can try onion powder, smoked paprika, or even Italian seasoning for a new twist.

Need a vegan version without Parmesan? Sprinkle on nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory flavor that fits any plant-based diet.

Craving sweetness? Drizzle a little maple syrup after cooking. Love heat? Add hot honey or a pinch of cayenne.

The beauty of this dish is that it welcomes creativity—your flavor, your way.

Best Side Dish of Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

These crispy sprouts are good enough to stand on their own, but pair them with the right dishes, and your meal goes from great to unforgettable.

Here are three side dishes that pair beautifully:

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken brings protein and a citrusy contrast that complements the earthy sprouts.

2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
The crispiness of the sprouts balances out the soft, buttery texture of mashed potatoes.

3. Quinoa Pilaf with Roasted Vegetables
For a wholesome vegetarian plate, this combo offers texture, fiber, and flavor from every angle.

Serving and Presentation Tips

First impressions matter—especially when it comes to food.

When you serve air fryer Brussels sprouts, aim for a presentation that feels both rustic and elegant. Use a shallow white bowl or platter to highlight their golden-brown color. Scatter a few flakes of sea salt, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or shaved Parmesan on top for a polished finish.

For dinner parties, consider serving them in mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, farmhouse-style presentation. If you’re going for modern flair, pair them with edible herbs like thyme or rosemary sprigs for a touch of green that looks fresh and intentional.

Serve immediately after cooking—Brussels sprouts are at their crispiest right out of the air fryer.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Better

Want to make the crispiest, most flavorful Brussels sprouts possible? Follow these tried-and-true tips:

• Dry thoroughly after rinsing. Moisture prevents crisping, so make sure the sprouts are patted completely dry before seasoning.
• Preheat your air fryer. It helps start the crisping process the second the sprouts hit the basket.
• Cut larger sprouts in half. This creates more surface area for caramelization and ensures even cooking.
• Don’t crowd the basket. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if needed.
• Toss with seasonings while hot. Whether it’s lemon juice or Parmesan, add extras while the sprouts are warm so they absorb the flavor.
• Add a touch of sweetness. A small amount of maple syrup or honey after cooking enhances the natural sweetness and creates balance.

These little tweaks will make a noticeable difference in both taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have room for error. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the trim and clean. Leaving dirty or damaged leaves on will impact both taste and appearance.
• Not cutting large sprouts. Whole large sprouts take longer to cook and often end up burnt on the outside, undercooked on the inside.
• Using too much oil. You only need a light coating—too much oil can make them soggy instead of crisp.
• Forgetting to shake. Failing to shake the basket halfway through cooking leads to uneven browning.
• Letting them sit too long. Brussels sprouts lose their crisp texture as they cool, so serve them immediately for the best experience.

Avoid these pitfalls and your sprouts will come out perfectly every time.

How to Store It

If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid keeping them uncovered—they’ll dry out and lose flavor.
• To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes. This brings back their crispiness better than a microwave.
• Avoid freezing. Brussels sprouts tend to get mushy when frozen and thawed, and they’ll lose that signature crispy texture.

Pro tip: They’re delicious tossed cold into a salad the next day if you don’t want to reheat!

FAQ

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts in the air fryer?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. You’ll need to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to get a similar result.

Why are my Brussels sprouts burning in the air fryer?
You may have cut them too small or cooked them too long. Try lowering the temperature to 350°F and shortening the cook time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the sprouts and seasoning ahead, but cook just before serving for best results.

Are air fryer Brussels sprouts healthy?
Absolutely. They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins. Using minimal oil keeps them light and heart-healthy.

How do I make them spicy?
Toss the sprouts with chili powder or cayenne before cooking. Or drizzle with sriracha or hot honey after air frying for a punch of heat.

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