These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Tossed with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, they make a tasty side dish!
Honestly, I can’t believe how quick and easy they are to make! Just a little time in the air fryer and they’re ready to enjoy. Perfect for sneaking in some veggies! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. If you can’t find them, you might try using green beans or cauliflower florets, but the texture will differ.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Both work well and add a nice taste too.
Garlic Powder: This adds a wonderful flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can use 1-2 cloves, minced. Just be careful not to burn it in the air fryer!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a delicious touch. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead. It gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Do I Ensure My Brussels Sprouts Are Crispy?
Getting perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts is all about the cooking method. Here are some tips:
- Be sure to cut the Brussels sprouts in half; this increases their surface area and helps them crisp up.
- Preheating the air fryer is essential. It helps them cook evenly from the start.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket; this prevents steam from escaping and keeps them from getting crispy. If needed, cook them in batches.
- Don’t skip shaking the basket halfway; it promotes even browning on all sides.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy and tasty Brussels sprouts every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Estimated Time to Prepare:
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, you’ll have deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts ready in less than 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps to get a nice crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Next, rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to clean them. Trim off the tough stem ends and cut each sprout in half lengthwise. This will help them cook more evenly and get crispy!
3. Season the Sprouts:
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you have a lot, it’s best to do this in two batches for perfect crispiness.
5. Air Fry Them:
Cook the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps to ensure even browning and crispiness!
6. Check for Doneness:
Once the cooking time is up, your Brussels sprouts should be tender on the inside and crispy and browned on the outside. If they need a little more time, you can pop them back in for a few more minutes.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
If you’re using it, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top for extra flavor. That little touch makes a big difference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts immediately. If you’d like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for a lovely zing. Enjoy your healthy and tasty dish!
This recipe will leave you with beautifully crispy Brussels sprouts that are perfect as a side dish or snack. They’re packed with flavor and so easy to whip up in the air fryer!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! However, be aware that they might not get as crispy. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Both will work well and complement the flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness, or microwave them for a quick warm-up.
Can I Add Different Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Some great options are balsamic vinegar, chili flakes for spice, or even a mix of herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Just adjust the amounts to your taste.