Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan are incredibly easy to make and bursting with savory flavor. This quick and simple method will transform even the most skeptical eaters into Brussels sprout enthusiasts. If you’ve never experienced the joy of perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts, now is the ideal time to discover your new favorite side dish!
Discovering the Delight of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are small, leafy green vegetables belonging to the cruciferous family, known for their resemblance to miniature cabbages. These nutrient-packed gems acquired their name from Brussels, Belgium, where they were first cultivated in the 16th century. For centuries, they’ve been a staple in European cuisine, and their popularity continues to grow worldwide as people learn to prepare them deliciously.
Many people, myself included, harbor preconceived notions about Brussels sprouts, often stemming from unpleasant childhood experiences with overcooked, bitter, and mushy versions. For years, I avoided them, convinced I didn’t like them. However, a properly prepared Brussels sprout is a culinary revelation! When cooked just right, they boast a delightful nutty sweetness and a satisfying al dente crunch that is truly irresistible. The leaves caramelize beautifully, offering a complex flavor profile that is far removed from the dreaded sulfuric smell of poorly cooked sprouts.
The secret to unlocking their delicious potential lies in the cooking method. Overcooking is the cardinal sin that leads to bitterness and an unappetizing texture. This air fryer recipe provides an almost foolproof way to achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful Brussels sprouts every single time. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking and a golden-brown exterior, transforming these humble vegetables into a star side dish that will convert even the most ardent critics.
Why These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Will Be Your New Favorite
This Air Fryer Brussels Sprout recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a game-changer! It’s the perfect side dish for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or any meal needing a touch of green and gourmet flavor. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love them:
- Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep and quick cooking time, these sprouts are ideal for busy schedules. No need for complicated steps or extensive culinary skills.
- Unbeatable Texture: The air fryer works magic, producing Brussels sprouts that are delightfully crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, without being oily or mushy.
- Irresistible Flavor: Dressed simply with savory seasonings and finished with a sprinkle of salty, nutty Parmesan cheese, these sprouts are packed with incredible taste.
- Incredibly Healthy: Brussels sprouts are nutritional powerhouses, low in calories and fat, yet rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They make a fantastic addition to any healthy eating plan.
- Versatile Side: While elegant enough for holiday meals, their simplicity makes them perfect for pairing with everyday dinners like roasted chicken, steak, fish, or pasta.
Beyond their delicious taste and ease of preparation, Brussels sprouts are celebrated for their numerous health benefits. They are an excellent source of Vitamin K, crucial for blood clotting and bone health, and Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function. They also provide significant amounts of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety, and a decent boost of plant-based protein. Research indicates that cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts may help reduce the risk of certain cancers due to their high content of sulforaphane and other beneficial compounds. Furthermore, incorporating them into your diet can contribute to preventing health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
More Brussels Sprout Inspirations
If these air fryer delights make you a Brussels sprout convert, you’ll definitely want to explore other exciting ways to prepare them. Here are a couple of my other favorite easy recipes:
- Bacon Wrapped Hot Brussels Sprouts – A savory, indulgent appetizer or side.
- Brussels Sprouts Gratin – A creamy, comforting bake perfect for special occasions.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Achieving the best air fryer Brussels sprouts requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. For precise measurements, always refer to the detailed recipe card further down this page.
- Fresh Brussels Sprouts: The foundation of this recipe! Opt for fresh, vibrant green sprouts. They should be firm to the touch with tightly packed leaves. If you can find them on the stalk, even better – they’ll be incredibly fresh. When prepping, trim the tough bottom ends and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. Halving them (especially larger ones) ensures more surface area for crisping.
- Olive Oil: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is my top recommendation for its flavor and health benefits. However, if you prefer, other high smoke point oils like peanut oil, avocado oil, or even a neutral vegetable oil will work well. The oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes that desirable crispy exterior.
- Garlic Powder: A staple seasoning that adds a warm, aromatic depth without the risk of fresh garlic burning in the air fryer.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder, providing a savory, slightly sweet undertone that enhances the overall flavor of the sprouts.
- Dried Thyme: Earthy and slightly floral, dried thyme pairs beautifully with Brussels sprouts. Its subtle flavor elevates the dish without overpowering the natural taste of the vegetables.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple yet essential. Use fine sea salt or Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. Seasoning to taste is key to balancing the flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: The finishing touch! Shredded Parmesan cheese melts slightly and crisps up in the final minutes of air frying, adding a salty, umami-rich crust. You can buy pre-shredded Parmesan or, for the freshest and most flavorful results, grate your own from a block.
How to Master Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts in Minutes
Preparing these delectable Brussels sprouts is incredibly simple, requiring just a few minutes of active time. You’ll be enjoying perfectly crispy, flavorful sprouts before you know it!
Preparation is Key: Begin by thoroughly washing your fresh Brussels sprouts. Trim off any tough stem ends and remove any yellowed or damaged outer leaves. For smaller sprouts, you can leave them whole. For larger ones, I recommend cutting them in half through the stem to ensure even cooking and maximize crispy edges.
Season and Coat: Place the prepared Brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together vigorously until each sprout is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This ensures maximum flavor and uniform crispiness.
Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Carefully transfer the seasoned Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation, which is essential for crisping. Air fry for 8 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 4-minute mark), pause the air fryer and give the basket a good shake to ensure all sides of the sprouts cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Add Parmesan and Finish: After the initial 8 minutes, carefully remove the air fryer basket. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the hot Brussels sprouts. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue to air fry for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the sprouts have reached your desired level of crispiness. Keep a close eye on them during this final stage to prevent burning.
Serve Immediately: Transfer the crispy, cheesy Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. Enjoy them hot as a delicious side dish that will impress everyone at your table!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about making crispy Brussels sprouts:
Why won’t my Brussels sprouts get crispy?
Achieving crispy Brussels sprouts, whether in an air fryer or oven, comes down to a few critical factors. First, ensure adequate oil; a good rule of thumb is about 2 tablespoons of oil per pound of sprouts. This fat helps conduct heat and encourages browning. Second, high heat is essential. For air frying, 400°F (200°C) is ideal. If roasting, aim for at least 400°F (200°C), or even 425°F (220°C). Third, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket or baking sheet. Sprouts need space to breathe and allow hot air to circulate; if they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Lay them in a single layer, cut-side down if halved, to allow the flat surfaces to caramelize beautifully and the outer leaves to crisp up.
Can you put frozen Brussels sprouts in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen Brussels sprouts in the air fryer, but be aware that they generally won’t achieve the same level of crispiness as fresh sprouts. Frozen vegetables contain more moisture, which releases during cooking and can lead to a softer texture. For the best results with frozen sprouts, don’t thaw them. Place them directly into a preheated air fryer in a single layer, ensuring there’s plenty of space between each one for proper air circulation. You’ll likely need to increase the cooking time compared to fresh sprouts, possibly by 5-10 minutes or more. Cook until the excess moisture has evaporated, and the outer leaves are completely crispy. If they taste bitter or mushy, they likely need a longer cooking time to fully crisp up.
How should I store leftover air fryer Brussels sprouts?
Allow any leftover air fryer Brussels sprouts to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While they will lose some of their crispiness upon cooling, they still taste delicious when reheated.
What’s the best way to reheat air fryer Brussels sprouts?
To bring back some of that amazing crispiness, reheat leftover Brussels sprouts in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Place the sprouts in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and re-crisped. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this will make them soft and mushy.
Creative Substitutions for Your Brussels Sprouts
Feel free to experiment with these substitutions to tailor the recipe to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Fresh Brussels Sprouts: While fresh are highly recommended for optimal crispiness, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts if fresh are unavailable. Just remember they may be a bit softer due to moisture content. Consider patting them very dry before seasoning and increasing cooking time.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred, but feel free to substitute with other oils that have a high smoke point and a flavor you enjoy, such as avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or even a light vegetable oil.
- Garlic Powder: For an alternative, use 1-2 cloves of minced fresh garlic, but add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent burning. Garlic paste is another convenient option.
- Onion Powder: If you don’t have onion powder, you could try a pinch of dried minced onion or even finely ground dried chives. Just ensure they are finely powdered to coat the sprouts evenly.
- Dried Thyme: Fresh herbs always add a bright touch. If using fresh thyme, use 1 tablespoon for every 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Rosemary or sage can also offer a lovely aromatic twist.
- Parmesan Cheese: Shredded Pecorino Romano or even a sharp aged cheddar can be fantastic substitutes for Parmesan, offering similar salty, savory notes. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic a cheesy flavor.
- Spice Variations: Don’t limit yourself! Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth, a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a touch of everything bagel seasoning for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your air fryer Brussels sprouts to gourmet status with these clever tips and tricks:
- Prep for Maximum Crispiness: Always trim the tough bottom stem and remove any loose outer leaves. Cutting larger Brussels sprouts in half is key! This creates more surface area, leading to extra crispy edges, especially on the flat side where they caramelize beautifully.
- Avoid Overcrowding: This is arguably the most important tip for air frying. Overfilling the basket restricts air circulation, causing the sprouts to steam rather than crisp. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring a single layer with space around each sprout.
- Shake It Up: Don’t forget to shake the air fryer basket vigorously halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides, preventing some sprouts from getting too dark while others remain pale.
- Customizing Your Finish: The possibilities for garnishing and finishing your Brussels sprouts are endless! Beyond a sprinkle of Parmesan, consider:
- Citrus Zest: A touch of fresh lemon or orange zest adds a bright, aromatic lift.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or a sprig of fresh rosemary can add visual appeal and fresh flavor.
- Acidic Drizzles: A light drizzle of fresh lemon or lime juice immediately after cooking can brighten the flavors. For a richer, tangier note, try a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a syrupy balsamic glaze.
- Sweet & Savory: A touch of pure maple syrup or hot honey drizzled over the top offers a fantastic sweet-and-savory contrast.
- Spice It Up: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, or smoked paprika for a deeper, savory flavor.
- Crunch Factor: Toasted nuts (like slivered almonds or pecans) or seeds (like pumpkin seeds) can add a wonderful textural contrast.
- Storage Savvy: Store any leftover air-fried Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While they won’t be as crispy as fresh, they’ll still be flavorful.
Explore More Air Fryer Recipes
The air fryer is a fantastic appliance for creating quick, crispy, and delicious meals with less oil. I’m continually expanding my collection of air fryer recipes, and I encourage you to explore them! Here are a few more favorites that showcase the versatility of this amazing kitchen tool:
- Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak – Enjoy classic comfort food with an air-fried twist.
- Edamame Beans in the Air Fryer (pictured above) – A healthy, addictive snack or appetizer.
- Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli – Crispy, cheesy bites that are perfect for dipping.
- Air Fryer Apple Pie Egg Rolls – A sweet and crunchy dessert made easy.
This week, I’m delighted to participate in a special Holiday Side Dish Week alongside my fellow food blogger friends. This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe is my second contribution, following a wonderful Instant Pot Sweet Potato Mash recipe that I shared earlier in the week. These events are fantastic opportunities to discover new and exciting dishes to brighten up your holiday table!
You can find many more amazing Salads and Side Dishes on my website, and I highly recommend checking out the incredible list of Holiday Side Dishes from my colleagues below. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!
Don’t wait any longer to try this healthy, low-carb, and incredibly delicious recipe! These crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are not only a tasty way to incorporate more greens into your diet but also a versatile side dish that complements almost any meal. Their satisfying crunch and savory flavor will make them a regular on your menu!
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Print Recipe
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- OXO 3- Piece Wooden Spoon Set
- Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Oven Digital and Programmable, Nonstick (35050), 2.5 Liters, Black
- COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo, 5.8QT
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh brussels sprouts halved and trimmed
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese shredded
Instructions
- Place the Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl.
- Add in the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-coated.
- Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket and air fry for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
- Remove the basket and add the parmesan cheese. Air fry for another 3-4 minutes or until your desired crispiness is achieved.
Nutrition
Welcome to Holiday Side Dish Week 2022 hosted by Heather from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks. This year we have over 45 side dishes to help you plan your holiday meals.
Wednesday Holiday Side Dish Recipes:
- Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Bacon from Cheese Curd In Paradise
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts from An Affair from the Heart
- Apple and Chestnut Stuffing from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
- Homemade Rice Pilaf from Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog
- Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower from The Spiffy Cookie
- Old-Fashioned Candied Yams from Palatable Pastime
- One Pot Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Orzo from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
- Pineapple Casserole from A Day in the Life on the Far
- Potato Gratin with Gruyére, Bacon, and Leeks from Karen’s Kitchen Stories
- Puff Pastry Wrapped Asparagus Bundles from Blogghetti
- Pumpkin Methi Luchi from Magical Ingredients
- Roasted Pepitas from Art of Natural Living
- Twice Baked Potato Casserole from Hostess At Heart