Ready in: 25 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Air Frying · Storage: Airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
Air fry Brussels sprouts for a crispy side dish that's perfect for holiday feasts.
I've spent countless hours in my New York City kitchen experimenting with all kinds of vegetable preparations, but I have to say, air frying Brussels sprouts has completely changed the game for me. As the leaves outside start to turn, the chilly air settles in, and thoughts of Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations fill my mind, there's nothing more inviting than a warm, crispy side dish. Let's dive into this perfect recipe that will have your family marveling at your culinary prowess.
A Delightful Holiday Side
When the holiday season approaches, it's essential to have side dishes that not only taste incredible but also impress your guests. This air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is the answer to both. The combination of spices and the air frying technique brings out the natural flavors of Brussels sprouts, making them a perfect complement to any festive meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Transform Brussels sprouts into a crispy, addictive side dish in minutes.
- Perfectly seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika for a burst of flavor.
- A healthier alternative to traditional frying, thanks to the air fryer.
- Easy to customize with toppings like Parmesan cheese or balsamic glaze.
- Minimal cleanup with just a few kitchen tools needed.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts (Step-by-Step)
This air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is quick and simple to make, ensuring a crispy and delicious side dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slicing them in half. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking. Admire the vibrant green color as you prepare them for cooking.
Step 2: Season
In a mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each sprout is evenly coated for the best flavor and aroma as they cook.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about five minutes. Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. The aroma will fill your kitchen as they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve
Once done, carefully remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Enhance their flavor by adding grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Basket: Giving your Brussels sprouts enough space allows for even cooking and crispiness.
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the air fryer can lead to sogginess instead of that desired crunch.
- Neglecting to Shake: Failing to shake the basket halfway through can result in uneven cooking; embrace that extra step for perfectly roasted veggies.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use fresh Brussels sprouts whenever possible; frozen ones tend to become mushy.
- Experiment with your seasonings! Try adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.
- For an extra crisp, you can give them an additional 2-3 minutes in the air fryer at the end.
Variations
- Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a different flavor.
- Add balsamic vinegar instead of glaze for a tangy kick.
- Try different spices such as Italian herbs or Cajun seasoning for a flavor twist.
How to Serve
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for added flavor.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet contrast.
- Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like garlic aioli for extra taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the Brussels sprouts and season them a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as Brussels sprouts can become mushy when frozen and reheated.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Trying out this recipe has reaffirmed my love for air frying vegetables. The quick cooking method not only saves time but also enhances the flavors brilliantly, making Brussels sprouts a crowd-pleaser during those busy holiday gatherings. Trust me, one bite of this crispy goodness, and you'll be hooked!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~120 calories · 4g protein · 10g carbs · 8g fat
Recipe by:
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slicing them in half. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each sprout is evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about five minutes. Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once done, carefully remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Add grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
It's best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for optimal texture and flavor. Frozen ones tend to become mushy when cooked.
2. How do I achieve the crispiest Brussels sprouts?
Make sure to preheat your air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket. Shaking the basket halfway through cooking also helps achieve even crispiness.
3. What can I use as toppings for my air-fried Brussels sprouts?
Consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
4. How long will leftover Brussels sprouts last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for the best results.
5. Can I customize the seasoning for my Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like red pepper flakes or lemon zest to enhance the flavor profile.
