These Air Fryer Brussels sprouts are crispy, golden, and oh-so-delicious! They cook up in minutes and taste amazing with just a sprinkle of salt and a dash of olive oil.
Trust me, I can’t stop munching on these little greens! They make a perfect side dish or a yummy snack. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to try them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh sprouts are best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you might try using broccolini or green beans for a different twist. Just ensure they’re cut to size for even cooking.
Olive Oil: Olive oil coats the sprouts for crispiness. You can also use avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer. Just avoid oils with strong flavors, like sesame oil, which may overpower the sprouts.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is essential! Feel free to experiment with other spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar or Lemon Juice: This adds a nice zing! If you don’t have either, a splash of apple cider vinegar or even a light soy sauce can work wonders.
Why Is Preheating Important for the Air Fryer?
Preheating your air fryer ensures that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get that crispy texture we all love. When the air fryer is hot, it starts crisping the outer layer right away, which helps keep the inside tender.
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 3-5 minutes.
- This step is especially helpful for achieving that golden-brown color on the Brussels sprouts.
How Can I Prevent My Brussels Sprouts from Being Soggy?
Soggy sprouts can be a disappointment! To keep them crispy, make sure to coat them lightly in oil, avoiding too much moisture which can cause steaming in the air fryer. Here’s how:
- Dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly after washing.
- Use a large bowl to toss them with oil, salt, and pepper evenly.
- Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer basket—give them space to breathe!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfect, crispy Air Fryer Brussels sprouts every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer, giving you a total time of around 25-30 minutes to serve up this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on your Brussels sprouts.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Wash the Brussels sprouts under cold water, trimming off the hard stem ends. Cut each sprout in half through the core to help them cook evenly and maximize their surface area. This will help them get crispy!
3. Toss with Seasonings:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re well coated; this helps them crisp up beautifully during cooking.
4. Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts:
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; this ensures they cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches.
5. Cooking Time:
Cook the Brussels sprouts for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary between air fryer brands.
6. Check for Doneness:
They’re ready to eat when they are crispy and golden brown on the edges yet tender inside. If you like them extra crispy, feel free to cook them for a minute or two longer!
7. Optional Topping:
For an extra zing, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice before serving. This little touch adds a refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the sprouts.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Air Fryer Brussels sprouts immediately while they’re hot and crispy! Enjoy them as a delicious side dish or snack. You might find they disappear quickly—they’re that good!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before tossing with oil and seasoning.
Can I Make These Brussels Sprouts in Advance?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time by washing and cutting them. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day; toss with oil and seasoning right before air frying.
What Should I Do if My Brussels Sprouts Are Not Crispy?
If your sprouts aren’t crispy, it may be due to overcrowding in the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer, and consider cooking in batches if needed. You can also try cooking them a few minutes longer for added crispness.
How Can I Store Leftover Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.