These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts are a game-changer! Tossed in olive oil and your favorite seasonings, they come out perfectly crunchy and deliciously roasted.
Honestly, I can’t stop munching on them! They make a great side dish or snack. Just be careful—they tend to disappear fast at my house!
What I love most is how quick they cook. In just 15 minutes, you get a tasty veggie that even the kids enjoy. It’s healthy and super easy to make. Win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: A pound of fresh Brussels sprouts is key for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, frozen sprouts can work, though they might not get as crispy. Look for firm, bright green sprouts.
Olive Oil: This helps achieve that crispy texture. While olive oil is my favorite, you can use avocado oil or even vegetable oil instead if you want a neutral flavor.
Garlic Powder: It adds a great flavor boost. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead, just be careful not to burn it when cooking.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is optional but can really enhance the flavor. If you don’t have balsamic, try apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Brussels Sprouts Are Crispy?
Getting the Brussels sprouts crispy is the heart of this recipe. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Preheat your air fryer properly before adding the sprouts. This helps start the crisping process right away.
- Make sure the Brussels sprouts are halved evenly. This ensures they cook consistently.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed, so the air can circulate around them.
- Toss them midway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for flavor)
- Cooking spray (for air fryer basket)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 to 20 minutes to cook. So, in under 30 minutes, you can have crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will help your Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture we all love!
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of kick. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated. This is what makes them so tasty!
3. Get the Air Fryer Ready:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This keeps the Brussels sprouts from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
4. Cook the Brussels Sprouts:
Place the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you might need to do this in batches. Cook them for 15 to 20 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to help them crisp up evenly!
5. Drizzle and Serve:
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, carefully take them out of the air fryer. If you’re using balsamic vinegar, drizzle it over the cooked Brussels sprouts and toss them gently to combine. Serve these warm as a delicious side dish or snack. Enjoy your crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. To prepare, thaw the frozen sprouts in the fridge overnight or microwave them for a few minutes. Be sure to pat them dry with paper towels after thawing to remove excess moisture before tossing with oil and spices.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil or canola oil, which have a high smoke point and work well for air frying. Just keep the same amount, 2 tablespoons, for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you love heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes to your liking. You can also toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with a spicy sauce after cooking for an extra kick.
How to Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness, or you can use the microwave, though they won’t be as crispy.
