These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are crispy, tasty, and super easy to make! Just toss them with a little oil and seasoning, and let the air fryer do its magic.
Honestly, these little veggies can be quite addictive! I love snacking on them straight out of the fryer. Perfect as a side or even a healthy treat anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh is best! Look for bright green, firm sprouts. If you can’t find Brussels sprouts, you can swap them with broccoli or cauliflower for a different twist on a similar recipe.
Olive Oil: This helps achieve crispiness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil works great too! Just make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy. Or skip it altogether for a lighter dish.
Seasonings: I love adding garlic powder for extra flavor. You can also experiment with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your taste!
How Do You Get Brussels Sprouts Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To make sure your Brussels sprouts turn out crispy and delicious, there are some key tips to follow. First, be sure to cut them evenly in half. This ensures they cook at the same rate. Next, tossing them in oil is crucial to help them crisp up.
- Preheat your air fryer before cooking; it helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give them enough space to circulate and crisp evenly.
- Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Lastly, serve them right away! They taste best when they’re hot and crispy. Enjoy these healthy and tasty sprouts!
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Optional: garlic powder or other preferred seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-18 minutes in the air fryer. So all in all, you can have crispy Brussels sprouts ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This should take around 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer model. Preheating helps your Brussels sprouts to cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to clean them. Trim the stem ends and cut each sprout in half lengthwise. Removing any yellow or damaged leaves will help them cook better and taste great.
3. Season the Sprouts:
In a mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any other seasonings you wish to add, such as garlic powder. Make sure each sprout is well-coated for the best flavor.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; this helps them crisp up nicely without steaming.
5. Air Frying Time:
Air fry the Brussels sprouts for 15-18 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 8-9 minutes), shake the basket or gently toss the sprouts to ensure even cooking and browning. The sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top while the sprouts are still hot so that it melts slightly. This adds a delicious cheesy flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts immediately as a side dish or a tasty snack. Enjoy their crunchy texture and savory flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning. This will help them get crispy in the air fryer.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for alternatives to olive oil, avocado oil or grapeseed oil work well too. You can also use melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile, but be aware that it may add a slight coconut taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to get them crispy again!
Can I Make These Brussels Sprouts Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix before air frying for an extra kick of heat.
