Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making air fryer Brussels sprouts yet, you are seriously missing out! I mean, who knew these little green gems could turn into such crispy, flavorful bites in a matter of minutes? The air fryer is a game changer, letting you achieve that perfect crunch without the guilt of deep frying. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll be hooked!
I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with my air fryer one lazy afternoon, and I couldn’t believe how quickly they cooked up. The aroma of garlic and spices fills the kitchen, and before you know it, you’re devouring a whole batch! These air fryer Brussels sprouts are not just a side dish; they’re a flavor-packed experience that pairs beautifully with just about anything.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved: Choose fresh, vibrant sprouts, and slice them in half to ensure even cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps to crisp up the Brussels sprouts and adds a lovely flavor. I like to use extra virgin for that extra richness!
- 1 tsp garlic powder: It adds a wonderful depth of flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic. You can up the amount if you’re a garlic lover like me!
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just enough to enhance the natural flavors of the sprouts. Adjust to taste, of course!
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: A little kick to balance the flavors. Feel free to add more if you like it spicy!
- 1/4 tsp paprika: This gives a smoky touch and a beautiful color to your Brussels sprouts. You can use smoked paprika for an even deeper flavor.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). I can’t stress enough how important this step is! Preheating ensures that your Brussels sprouts start cooking evenly right from the get-go, giving you that delightful crispy texture we all love. Just a few minutes of preheating, and you’re on your way to deliciousness!
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Now, let’s get those Brussels sprouts ready! In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Here’s my favorite part: toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated. I like to use my hands for this because it really gets the oil and spices into every nook and cranny. You want each sprout to be glistening and flavorful, trust me—it makes a world of difference!
Cooking Process
Once your sprouts are all dressed up, it’s time to get cooking! Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd them; you want the hot air to circulate and crisp them up beautifully. Set your timer for 15-18 minutes, and don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. If you’ve got larger sprouts, you might need to adjust the cooking time a bit—just keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Yum!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Each serving of these delicious air fryer Brussels sprouts packs in approximately 120 calories. But remember, nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a ballpark figure. Here’s a quick breakdown for a serving size of 1 cup:
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
So, you can feel great about enjoying these crispy bites! They’re not only tasty but also filled with nutrients. Just keep in mind that everyone’s kitchen and ingredients can vary, so adjust as needed!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your air fryer Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly every single time! Here are some of my best tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Choose the right sprouts: Go for Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green. If they’re yellowing or have spots, skip those! Freshness really makes a difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the preheating: Seriously, preheating your air fryer is key. It helps to cook the sprouts evenly and achieve that crispy exterior. Just a few minutes of waiting will pay off big time!
- Experiment with seasoning: Feel free to play with the spices! If you love a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Or, if you’re a fan of herbs, try adding a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist.
- Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on your sprouts, especially if they’re on the larger side! You might need to extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes, but don’t stray too far from that golden brown color.
- Shake it up: Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This little move is crucial for even crisping. You don’t want any soggy sprouts in the mix!
- Add a cheese boost: If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on the sprouts during the last few minutes of cooking. It adds a lovely, gooey flavor that takes them to the next level!
- Serve immediately: These Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed hot and crispy right out of the air fryer. Once they cool down, they can lose that delightful crunch, so dig in while they’re fresh!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the best air fryer Brussels sprouts ever. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
Want to mix things up a bit with your air fryer Brussels sprouts? I’ve got you covered! Here are some fun variations that can elevate this dish and keep your taste buds excited:
- Parmesan Crusted: Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last few minutes of cooking. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible!
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the cooked Brussels sprouts for a tangy sweetness. It’s a fantastic way to balance the savory garlic and spices!
- Spicy Sriracha: If you like a little heat, toss your sprouts with a tablespoon of Sriracha before cooking. It gives them a delightful kick that spicy food lovers will adore!
- Maple Glaze: For a sweet twist, mix a tablespoon of maple syrup into the olive oil before coating the sprouts. The combination of sweet and savory is absolutely delectable!
- Herb Infusion: Add some dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the mix for a fresh, aromatic flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish without much fuss!
- Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest before cooking. The citrusy notes will give your Brussels sprouts a fresh and vibrant taste!
Feel free to get creative and combine a few of these ideas! The beauty of air fryer Brussels sprouts is that they’re versatile and can adapt to whatever flavors you’re craving. Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got those crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with! These little gems are so versatile that they can complement a variety of dishes, making your meal even more delightful.
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the roasted goodness of Brussels sprouts. It’s a winning combo that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
- Steak: A juicy steak alongside those crispy sprouts is pure heaven. The rich meatiness and the crunchy texture create a perfect balance of flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: For a lighter option, serve your Brussels sprouts with a refreshing quinoa salad. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette for a bright contrast!
- Pasta: Mix them into your favorite pasta dish! The sprouts add a lovely crunch and flavor, especially in creamy sauces. Trust me, it’s a delightful twist!
- Roasted Fish: A nicely roasted fish, like salmon or tilapia, makes a fantastic pairing. The acidity of the fish complements the earthy flavors of the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Stuff some corn tortillas with your air fryer Brussels sprouts, black beans, and avocado for a delicious vegetarian taco night that everyone will love!
- Eggs: For a fun brunch idea, serve these sprouts alongside poached or fried eggs. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top, and you’ve got a winning dish!
No matter what you choose to serve with your air fryer Brussels sprouts, I guarantee they’ll steal the show! Each bite is packed with flavor, and they’ll elevate any meal to a whole new level. Enjoy your delicious creations!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best results, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent that crispy texture we’re going for!
How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are done cooking?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. A little bit of char is actually a good thing! If they look browned but are still firm when you poke them, they might need just a couple more minutes.
What can I do if my Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy enough?
If you find they’re not as crispy as you’d like, don’t worry! Try shaking the basket more frequently during cooking next time. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the basket; air circulation is key for that perfect crunch!
Can I make air fryer Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
While they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer, you can prep them a few hours in advance. Just keep them in the fridge after coating them with oil and spices. When you’re ready, pop them in the air fryer for a quick reheat!
What other vegetables can I cook in the air fryer?
Oh, so many! You can try air frying cauliflower, carrots, or even sweet potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable, and you’ll be on your way to crispy veggie perfection!
For more tips on cooking vegetables, check out this guide on air frying vegetables.
Print
Air fryer Brussels sprouts: 7 Crispy Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful air fryer Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Toss until Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
- Place Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time for larger or smaller sprouts.
- Try adding parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer brussels sprouts