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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Flavorful Side Dish

by on June 14, 2025

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Looking for a tasty side dish that’s healthy and easy? Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are your answer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful treat that pairs well with any meal. I’ll guide you through each step to perfect this dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful veggie that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!

- 1 pound Brussels sprouts - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) To make crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts, you need some simple ingredients. First, gather 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Look for ones that are firm and bright green. Next, you'll need 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This oil adds flavor and helps the sprouts crisp up. Then, grab 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This spice gives a nice savory kick. You'll also want 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. This will add a touch of smokiness that enhances the flavor. Don’t forget the seasoning! You will need 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. These will give the Brussels sprouts a balanced taste. Lastly, for a sweet and tangy finish, have 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze ready. If you love cheese, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top. It makes the dish even richer and more delicious. With these ingredients, you can create a side dish that is both tasty and healthy. Enjoy making crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by setting your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for crispy Brussels sprouts. Let it heat for about 5 minutes. A good preheat helps the sprouts cook evenly. Grab a large bowl and add 1 pound of halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Then, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spatula. Make sure every sprout is coated in the seasoning. This blend of flavors makes them tasty. Carefully place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer. This helps them crisp up nicely. Set the timer for 12 to 15 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket gently. This step promotes even cooking. When they finish, the Brussels sprouts will look golden brown and have a crispy texture. Use tongs to take them out. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet touch. If you like, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve these delights hot for the best taste! To make your Brussels sprouts super crispy, here are some tips. First, dry the sprouts well after washing. Any water can make them soggy. Second, cut them in half for more surface area. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice crunch. Use enough olive oil but not too much; two tablespoons is just right. When you place them in the air fryer, make sure they are in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to help them brown better. Crispy Brussels sprouts are great on their own but can shine with a few extras. Drizzle balsamic glaze over them right before serving. This adds a sweet and tangy kick. If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. It melts slightly and enhances the flavor. You could also toss in some cooked bacon bits for a savory twist. Serve them alongside roasted meats or as part of a veggie platter. Presentation is key to making your dish shine. Arrange the crispy Brussels sprouts on a nice serving platter. Drizzle more balsamic glaze over them for a glossy finish. You can also add a light dusting of Parmesan cheese to make them look fancy. For a pop of color, add some fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Serve them hot, right out of the air fryer, for the best taste and texture. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select bright green Brussels sprouts that are firm to the touch. Freshness ensures better flavor and texture. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal crispiness, make sure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer. Cooking in batches if necessary will yield the best results. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning mix! Add chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for a citrusy kick to elevate the flavor profile. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the Brussels sprouts right after cooking while they are still hot and crispy. {{image_4}} To make crispy Brussels sprouts even better, try adding different flavors. You can mix in lemon zest for a fresh taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. If you love herbs, fresh thyme or rosemary works great too. You can even add a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost. These small changes can bring new life to your dish. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast Brussels sprouts in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway to ensure even cooking. They may not be as crispy, but they will still taste delicious. You can also steam them for a softer texture before roasting if you want a different bite. Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh garlic works well too. Just chop it finely and add it to the oil. For the balsamic glaze, you can use honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch. Instead of Parmesan, try feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Each swap can change the taste and make the dish your own. To keep your crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay good in the fridge for about 3 days. For best taste, eat them within this time. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their crispiness. You can also use a microwave, but the texture won't be as nice. If you want to freeze your Brussels sprouts, it’s best to do this before cooking. Trim and halve them, then blanch them in boiling water for 3 minutes. Cool them in ice water, then drain. Place them in a freezer bag, and they will last about 3 months. When you're ready to cook, just air fry them straight from the freezer. Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, fresh sprouts will give you a better texture. If you use frozen, thaw them first and pat them dry. This helps them crisp up better in the air fryer. To reduce bitterness, you can try a few tricks. First, trim the ends and remove any yellow leaves. Second, roast them longer to develop sweetness. Adding garlic powder and smoked paprika also helps balance the flavor. Lastly, a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet touch. Crispy Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. You can serve them with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also go great with a quinoa salad or pasta. For a vegetarian option, try them with a creamy risotto. Don't forget a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor! In this post, we explored how to make crispy Brussels sprouts using the air fryer. We covered the key ingredients needed, provided step-by-step cooking instructions, and shared tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about variations and storage methods to keep your sprouts fresh. In closing, this recipe is easy and full of flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different spices and serving ideas. Crispy Brussels sprouts can be a hit at any meal!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthier Alternative: These Brussels sprouts are air-fried, which means they’re crispy without the excess oil and calories of traditional frying.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total time of 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
  3. Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and balsamic glaze gives these sprouts an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
  4. Versatile Side Dish: These crispy Brussels sprouts can complement any meal, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes, making them a great addition to your table.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 pound Brussels sprouts

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

To make crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts, you need some simple ingredients. First, gather 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Look for ones that are firm and bright green. Next, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This oil adds flavor and helps the sprouts crisp up.

Then, grab 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This spice gives a nice savory kick. You’ll also want 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. This will add a touch of smokiness that enhances the flavor.

Don’t forget the seasoning! You will need 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. These will give the Brussels sprouts a balanced taste.

Lastly, for a sweet and tangy finish, have 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze ready. If you love cheese, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top. It makes the dish even richer and more delicious.

With these ingredients, you can create a side dish that is both tasty and healthy. Enjoy making crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for crispy Brussels sprouts. Let it heat for about 5 minutes. A good preheat helps the sprouts cook evenly.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Grab a large bowl and add 1 pound of halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Then, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spatula. Make sure every sprout is coated in the seasoning. This blend of flavors makes them tasty.

Arrange and Cook in the Air Fryer

Carefully place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer. This helps them crisp up nicely. Set the timer for 12 to 15 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket gently. This step promotes even cooking. When they finish, the Brussels sprouts will look golden brown and have a crispy texture.

Use tongs to take them out. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet touch. If you like, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve these delights hot for the best taste!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

To make your Brussels sprouts super crispy, here are some tips. First, dry the sprouts well after washing. Any water can make them soggy. Second, cut them in half for more surface area. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice crunch. Use enough olive oil but not too much; two tablespoons is just right. When you place them in the air fryer, make sure they are in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to help them brown better.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Brussels sprouts are great on their own but can shine with a few extras. Drizzle balsamic glaze over them right before serving. This adds a sweet and tangy kick. If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. It melts slightly and enhances the flavor. You could also toss in some cooked bacon bits for a savory twist. Serve them alongside roasted meats or as part of a veggie platter.

Presentation Ideas

Presentation is key to making your dish shine. Arrange the crispy Brussels sprouts on a nice serving platter. Drizzle more balsamic glaze over them for a glossy finish. You can also add a light dusting of Parmesan cheese to make them look fancy. For a pop of color, add some fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Serve them hot, right out of the air fryer, for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select bright green Brussels sprouts that are firm to the touch. Freshness ensures better flavor and texture.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal crispiness, make sure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer. Cooking in batches if necessary will yield the best results.
  3. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning mix! Add chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for a citrusy kick to elevate the flavor profile.
  4. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the Brussels sprouts right after cooking while they are still hot and crispy.

Variations

Flavor Enhancements

To make crispy Brussels sprouts even better, try adding different flavors. You can mix in lemon zest for a fresh taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. If you love herbs, fresh thyme or rosemary works great too. You can even add a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost. These small changes can bring new life to your dish.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast Brussels sprouts in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway to ensure even cooking. They may not be as crispy, but they will still taste delicious. You can also steam them for a softer texture before roasting if you want a different bite.

Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh garlic works well too. Just chop it finely and add it to the oil. For the balsamic glaze, you can use honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch. Instead of Parmesan, try feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Each swap can change the taste and make the dish your own.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay good in the fridge for about 3 days. For best taste, eat them within this time.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their crispiness. You can also use a microwave, but the texture won’t be as nice.

Freezing Tips

If you want to freeze your Brussels sprouts, it’s best to do this before cooking. Trim and halve them, then blanch them in boiling water for 3 minutes. Cool them in ice water, then drain. Place them in a freezer bag, and they will last about 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just air fry them straight from the freezer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, fresh sprouts will give you a better texture. If you use frozen, thaw them first and pat them dry. This helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.

How do I make Brussels sprouts less bitter?

To reduce bitterness, you can try a few tricks. First, trim the ends and remove any yellow leaves. Second, roast them longer to develop sweetness. Adding garlic powder and smoked paprika also helps balance the flavor. Lastly, a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet touch.

What can I serve with crispy Brussels sprouts?

Crispy Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. You can serve them with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also go great with a quinoa salad or pasta. For a vegetarian option, try them with a creamy risotto. Don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor!

In this post, we explored how to make crispy Brussels sprouts using the air fryer. We covered the key ingredients needed, provided step-by-step cooking instructions, and shared tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about variations and storage methods to keep your sprouts fresh. In closing, this recipe is easy and full of flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different spices and serving ideas. Crispy Brussels sprouts can be a hit at any mea

- 1 pound Brussels sprouts - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) To make crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts, you need some simple ingredients. First, gather 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Look for ones that are firm and bright green. Next, you'll need 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This oil adds flavor and helps the sprouts crisp up. Then, grab 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This spice gives a nice savory kick. You'll also want 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. This will add a touch of smokiness that enhances the flavor. Don’t forget the seasoning! You will need 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. These will give the Brussels sprouts a balanced taste. Lastly, for a sweet and tangy finish, have 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze ready. If you love cheese, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top. It makes the dish even richer and more delicious. With these ingredients, you can create a side dish that is both tasty and healthy. Enjoy making crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by setting your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for crispy Brussels sprouts. Let it heat for about 5 minutes. A good preheat helps the sprouts cook evenly. Grab a large bowl and add 1 pound of halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Then, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spatula. Make sure every sprout is coated in the seasoning. This blend of flavors makes them tasty. Carefully place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer. This helps them crisp up nicely. Set the timer for 12 to 15 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket gently. This step promotes even cooking. When they finish, the Brussels sprouts will look golden brown and have a crispy texture. Use tongs to take them out. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet touch. If you like, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve these delights hot for the best taste! To make your Brussels sprouts super crispy, here are some tips. First, dry the sprouts well after washing. Any water can make them soggy. Second, cut them in half for more surface area. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice crunch. Use enough olive oil but not too much; two tablespoons is just right. When you place them in the air fryer, make sure they are in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to help them brown better. Crispy Brussels sprouts are great on their own but can shine with a few extras. Drizzle balsamic glaze over them right before serving. This adds a sweet and tangy kick. If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. It melts slightly and enhances the flavor. You could also toss in some cooked bacon bits for a savory twist. Serve them alongside roasted meats or as part of a veggie platter. Presentation is key to making your dish shine. Arrange the crispy Brussels sprouts on a nice serving platter. Drizzle more balsamic glaze over them for a glossy finish. You can also add a light dusting of Parmesan cheese to make them look fancy. For a pop of color, add some fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Serve them hot, right out of the air fryer, for the best taste and texture. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select bright green Brussels sprouts that are firm to the touch. Freshness ensures better flavor and texture. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal crispiness, make sure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer. Cooking in batches if necessary will yield the best results. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning mix! Add chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for a citrusy kick to elevate the flavor profile. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the Brussels sprouts right after cooking while they are still hot and crispy. {{image_4}} To make crispy Brussels sprouts even better, try adding different flavors. You can mix in lemon zest for a fresh taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. If you love herbs, fresh thyme or rosemary works great too. You can even add a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost. These small changes can bring new life to your dish. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast Brussels sprouts in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway to ensure even cooking. They may not be as crispy, but they will still taste delicious. You can also steam them for a softer texture before roasting if you want a different bite. Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh garlic works well too. Just chop it finely and add it to the oil. For the balsamic glaze, you can use honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch. Instead of Parmesan, try feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Each swap can change the taste and make the dish your own. To keep your crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay good in the fridge for about 3 days. For best taste, eat them within this time. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their crispiness. You can also use a microwave, but the texture won't be as nice. If you want to freeze your Brussels sprouts, it’s best to do this before cooking. Trim and halve them, then blanch them in boiling water for 3 minutes. Cool them in ice water, then drain. Place them in a freezer bag, and they will last about 3 months. When you're ready to cook, just air fry them straight from the freezer. Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, fresh sprouts will give you a better texture. If you use frozen, thaw them first and pat them dry. This helps them crisp up better in the air fryer. To reduce bitterness, you can try a few tricks. First, trim the ends and remove any yellow leaves. Second, roast them longer to develop sweetness. Adding garlic powder and smoked paprika also helps balance the flavor. Lastly, a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet touch. Crispy Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. You can serve them with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also go great with a quinoa salad or pasta. For a vegetarian option, try them with a creamy risotto. Don't forget a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor! In this post, we explored how to make crispy Brussels sprouts using the air fryer. We covered the key ingredients needed, provided step-by-step cooking instructions, and shared tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about variations and storage methods to keep your sprouts fresh. In closing, this recipe is easy and full of flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different spices and serving ideas. Crispy Brussels sprouts can be a hit at any meal!

Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts made in an air fryer, seasoned to perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
  • to taste Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Allow it to warm up for approximately 5 minutes to ensure optimal cooking conditions.
  • While the air fryer is heating, take a large mixing bowl and add the halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the ingredients together until each Brussels sprout is evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
  • Carefully arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking. Set the timer for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a good shake to promote even crisping and browning. The sprouts should emerge golden brown and have a delightful crispy texture on the outside.
  • When they are done, use tongs or a spatula to carefully remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over them for a sweet and tangy finish.
  • If you're a fan of extra flavor, consider sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This will add a rich, savory layer that pairs beautifully with the Brussels sprouts.

Notes

For an impressive presentation, arrange the Brussels sprouts on a serving platter, drizzling extra balsamic glaze and a light dusting of Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately while they are hot and crispy!
Keyword air fryer, Brussels sprouts, vegetable side dish

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