Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are crispy little bites of goodness! They are tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then cooked until they’re golden and crunchy on the outside.
These veggies are like little green superstars! I love making them as an easy side dish—everyone gobbles them up. Plus, who can resist that crispy texture? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh sprouts are best for a crisp texture. If you can’t find them, you might try other greens like broccoli or cauliflower, but the flavor will differ.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps achieve that crispiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well too!
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, it adds extra flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the milk!
Salt and Pepper: These are basic seasonings. Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite spices for more flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Brussels Sprouts Are Super Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch from your Brussels sprouts is all about the right technique! Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to help them cook evenly and get that crispiness on all sides.
- Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. Cooking times can vary, and you want them golden brown.
Following these tips will give you perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts every time! Enjoy! 🌟
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 5 minutes for prep and around 15-18 minutes for cooking. So, in roughly 25 minutes, you’ll have a tasty side dish that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure your Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get that nice, crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to clean them. Then, trim off the stem ends and cut each sprout in half lengthwise. This helps them cook evenly and gives more edges to crisp up!
3. Season the Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each sprout is well-coated for the best flavor and crispiness as they cook.
4. Air Frying Time:
Now, it’s time to cook! Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to help them brown evenly. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once they are golden and crispy, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an added flavor boost!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the Brussels sprouts immediately while they are hot and crispy. Enjoy the delicious, caramelized goodness! They make an excellent side dish or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for the crispiest results. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture which can lead to sogginess.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese. For a cheesy flavor, consider adding nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative!
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
You can definitely get creative! Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Smoked paprika is another great option for a hint of smokiness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again at 375°F for 4-5 minutes to regain that crispy texture!