Brussels sprouts are a vegetable that often get a bad reputation, but when cooked the right way, they can be crispy, flavorful, and downright irresistible. The air fryer is the perfect tool to achieve that golden-brown crispiness while keeping the inside tender. Here’s a detailed recipe to make Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts.
1. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and removing any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut them in half from top to bottom to ensure they cook evenly.
Season the Brussels Sprouts: Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat them evenly. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper over the sprouts and toss again until well-coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Brussels Sprouts: Arrange the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot. They make a great side dish or snack.
2. Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Uniform Size: Cutting the Brussels sprouts into even halves ensures that they cook at the same rate. If some pieces are larger than others, they may end up undercooked or overcooked.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer is essential for getting that crispy texture. It helps the Brussels sprouts begin cooking immediately when placed inside.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For crispy Brussels sprouts, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Space allows the hot air to circulate and crisp up each piece.
Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures the Brussels sprouts cook evenly. This step is crucial for getting the perfect crisp on each piece.
Check for Doneness: Air fryers can vary in temperature, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your Brussels sprouts towards the end of cooking. If they’re not as crispy as you want, give them an extra 2-3 minutes.
3. Recipe Variations
Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Add chopped bacon to the Brussels sprouts before cooking. The bacon will crisp up and infuse the Brussels sprouts with a savory flavor that complements their natural taste.
Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt and create a delicious crust.
Balsamic Glaze Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle the cooked Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish. The contrast of flavors adds a sophisticated touch.
Lemon and Herb Brussels Sprouts: Add fresh lemon zest and a pinch of dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) to the Brussels sprouts before air frying for a zesty and aromatic variation.
Spicy Brussels Sprouts: For those who love heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the garlic powder and paprika to add a fiery kick.
4. Serving Suggestions
As a Side Dish: These crispy Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or steak. Their savory, crunchy texture complements the richness of the main course.
Tossed with a Salad: Add the roasted Brussels sprouts to a warm salad with arugula, walnuts, and goat cheese. The slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts pairs well with the peppery arugula and the creaminess of goat cheese.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair the Brussels sprouts with your favorite dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or spicy sriracha mayo for a tasty appetizer or snack.
As a Snack: If you’re craving a crunchy snack, these air fryer Brussels sprouts are the perfect alternative to chips. Enjoy them with a side of creamy dip for a light yet satisfying treat.
With these tips and variations, you can make the perfect batch of air fryer Brussels sprouts every time. They’re crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a side, tossing them into a salad, or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but be aware that they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. To get the best results, thaw the Brussels sprouts completely and pat them dry before air frying. You may also need to increase the cooking time slightly.
How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from being bitter?
Bitterness in Brussels sprouts is natural, but it can be balanced by roasting them to caramelize their outer leaves and adding a sweet component like the balsamic glaze or honey. Trimming the tough ends and using fresh Brussels sprouts can also help.
I hope that after reading this article, you can make the perfect batch of air fryer Brussels sprouts every time. They’re crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a side, tossing them into a salad, or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
