Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts were perhaps one of the most surprising discoveries I have had in the kitchen in recent times.
One day, I told myself that it was time to try making Brussels sprouts in the air fryer.
And I did just fine!
Air fryer brussel sprouts are one of my go-to perfect side dishes. Not only are they easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients, but they also come out crispy and delicious every time.
A very simple but delicious way to serve brussels sprouts.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Why I Love These Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Cooking sprouts in the air fryer is quick and easy and ensures that they can be cooked to their best while leaving their taste intact.
- Healthy side dish: air frying uses less oil, which means that the food you cook in them is healthier than food cooked in a deep fryer.
- Faster: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional ovens, which means that you can enjoy your brussel sprouts in less time.
- Crunch factor: The air fryer is the best way to cook crispy and delicious brussel sprouts.
Ingredients Needed for This Crispy Air fryer Brussel Sprouts
These are the main ingredients you need for this recipe.
For the step-by-step directions and measurements, scroll down to our printable recipe card.
Brussel Sprouts – You can use fresh brussel sprouts or the frozen ones, the only difference I’ve noticed is that the fresh ones caramelize more than the frozen ones.
If you use fresh ones when selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact, and bright green sprouts with tightly closed leaves.
Avoid sprouts that are yellow, wilted, or have loose or damaged leaves, as they may be overripe or have been exposed to air for too long.
Brussel sprouts should have a compact shape, be firm and well hooded.
And have firm, fleshy leaves, and a nice, vibrant color.
Extra virgin olive oil – Pil will help the brussel sprouts get crispy in the air fryer.
You can also use avocado oil or another high-heat oil if you prefer.
Salt and black pepper – Basic seasonings like salt and pepper will bring out the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
Parmesan cheese (optional) – If you want to add more flavor, you can also sprinkle on some garlic powder or any other seasoning you like.
How to Cook Brussels Sprouts In The Air Fryer
First, remove the tough outer leaves from the brussel sprouts and use a knife to cut off the tough base.
For the larger sprouts, divide them in half while leaving the smaller ones whole.
Next, clean the sprouts under running water and dry them well and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Season with oil and spices, and for an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some grated parmesan cheese.
Mix them well and place them on the air fryer basket in a single layer without letting them overlap.
What Temperature To Cook Brussel Sprouts In Air Fryer
For a crispy result cook brussels sprouts at 375 F degrees in your air fryer for about 12 minutes.
Last three minutes cook at 400F degrees for super crispness.
All while remembering to shake them while cooking.
Can You Cook Frozen Brussel Sprouts In The Air Fryer?
Yes, even with frozen ones they come out very well.
I recommend only a few more minutes of cooking to make them crispier.
Best Tips For Crispy Results
- Choose fresh and firm brussels sprouts for best results.
- Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the sprouts. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the basket of the air fryer for a crispier result.
- For crispier sprouts, after cleaning them under running water, pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning them.
Recipe Variations
Balsamic brussels sprouts: I love to prepare them like this.
In a small bowl combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.
Beat the mixture with a whisk until it appears thickened and creamy.
When the sprouts are ready, take them out and collect them in a bowl.
Season the cooked brussels sprouts with the sauce and give them a good stir before serving them at the table sprinkled with chopped parsley.
Air fryer brussel sprouts with almonds: Pour them into a bowl along with 100g almonds, 3 cloves of minced garlic (optional), 1 or 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper.
Mix and place on the air fryer, cook for about 15 minutes.
Even crunchier this way.
Smashed Brussel Sprouts: I am sure you will love this version, it has an extra step but it is worth it.
Air fryer brussel sprouts with bacon: One of the best things that goes well with sprouts is bacon.
Add some pre-cooked bacon at the end and finish it off with some balsamic glaze for a perfect side dish perfect for the holidays.
How To Serve Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts cooked in an air fryer are a quick and easy side dish that goes great with any main dish.
I love to serve them with these chicken cutlets or this delicious smoked duck for a super delicious family dinner.
For a healthy lunch you can serve them as toppings of quinoa dishes, perhaps adding other vegetables like broccoli cooked in an air fryer, or some butternut squash also cooked in an air fryer.
How To Store Leftovers
To store: Store brussels sprouts in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350 degrees F for 3 minutes.
I do not recommend freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bake Brussels sprouts in a regular oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes on a baking sheet covered with baking paper.
It depends on the size of the sprouts, if they larger sprouts I recommend cutting them in half for more even cooking.
This is not necessary, but it may be helpful to soak them first. If you have time, do this for 20 minutes before cooking them, for more tender brussels sprouts.
Yes, brussels sprouts are a healthy vegetable and are low-calorie and low carb.
They are rich in fiber and antioxidants, vitamin K, vitamin C, for collagen synthesis, vitamin A and vitamin E, which are important for skin health.
They also contain potassium, phosphorus, selenium, calcium and magnesium.
Air Fry Brussels Sprouts Recipe
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Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts Recipe
These Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are the perfect side dish to have with dinner, and are ready in less than fifteen minutes!
Ingredients
- 300g Brussel Sprouts ( 11 oz)
- 1 Tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons of parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the sprouts and remove the outer leaves if damaged. Dry them well.
- Cut the larger ones in half.
- Season them in a bowl with the oil, salt, black pepper and parmesan cheese.
- Transfer them to the basket of the air fryer being careful not to let them overlap cook for 12 minutes at 375F degrees, shaking the basket occasionally,
- Cook for an additional 3 minutes at 400°F for extra crispness.
- Serve immediately hot.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 138Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 281mgCarbohydrates: 12gFiber: 4gSugar: 3gProtein: 5g
Nutrition is automatically calculated by Nutritionix - please verify all nutrition information independently and consult with a doctor or nutritionist for any and all medical and diet advice.
Lida
Saturday 23rd of July 2022
Could we cook frozen Brussel sprout the same using the recipe’s shown here?
Angie
Sunday 24th of July 2022
Hi Lida, yes sure :)