Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts: The Easiest Recipe

Craving perfectly crispy, deeply flavorful vegetables without the fuss? These air fryer brussel sprouts are your new go-to side dish. The air fryer works magic, transforming humble sprouts into a delicious, tender-crisp delight with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a wonderfully healthy way to enjoy this nutritious green, packed with vital nutrients.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

For those seeking healthier cooking methods, understanding how air frying reduces oil intake can be insightful. This recipe for air fryer brussel sprouts will quickly become a family favorite for many reasons:

• Lightning Fast: Get them on the table in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Unbeatable Crispiness: Achieve that coveted golden-brown, crispy exterior every single time.
• Healthier Option: Enjoy perfectly cooked vegetables with far less oil than traditional roasting.
• Incredible Flavor: A vibrant balsamic glaze elevates the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples to create this impressive side dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your next favorite side dish of air fryer brussel sprouts:

• 1 pound brussels sprouts, fresh and firm
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice, plus extra for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

Notes & Substitutions

Selecting the right ingredients ensures the best outcome for your air fryer brussel sprouts.

• Brussels Sprout Selection: Choose firm, bright green sprouts without blemishes. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender.
• Oil Alternatives: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil work well if you prefer a different neutral-flavored oil.
• Salt & Pepper Variations: Feel free to add freshly ground black pepper along with the salt. A pinch of red pepper flakes offers a subtle kick.
• Garlic Preparation: Thinly sliced garlic offers a milder flavor, while minced garlic provides a more potent garlic punch. Adjust to your preference.
• Balsamic Alternatives: A good quality apple cider vinegar can be used for the glaze in a pinch, though the flavor will differ.
• Lime Juice Substitutes: Lemon juice works perfectly if you don’t have limes on hand. It adds a similar bright, zesty note.
• Soy Sauce Alternatives: Tamari is an excellent gluten-free substitute. Coconut aminos also provide a similar savory depth.

Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make these delicious air fryer brussel sprouts.

• Air Fryer: Either a basket-style or oven-style air fryer works perfectly for this recipe.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for tossing your sprouts evenly with oil and seasonings.
• Small Saucepan: Used for simmering the balsamic vinegar down to a rich, syrupy glaze.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the glaze ingredients smoothly for a perfect consistency.
• Tongs: Useful for shaking the air fryer basket and transferring the cooked sprouts.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the most delicious air fryer brussel sprouts right in your own kitchen.

Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Begin by preparing your fresh brussels sprouts. Trim off the tough, woody ends from each sprout. Peel away any loose, discolored, or yellowed outer leaves; this ensures a cleaner taste and better texture. For even cooking and maximum crispiness, cut each sprout in half through the stem end. If you have particularly large sprouts, quarter them to ensure they cook thoroughly and become delightfully tender inside. Ensure the prepared sprouts are dry before moving to the next step.

Season the Sprouts

Place all the trimmed and halved brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over the sprouts. Sprinkle them evenly with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. You can also add a grind of black pepper here if you like. Using your hands or tongs, toss the sprouts thoroughly. Make sure every piece is lightly coated in oil and seasoning; this creates that essential crispy exterior and enhances flavor.

Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) according to your model’s instructions, if preheating is necessary. Once preheated, carefully arrange the seasoned brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket or on the tray. It’s crucial to arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. Overlapping sprouts will steam instead of crisp. Air fry for an initial 15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, around the 7–8 minute mark, remove the basket and give it a good shake or toss the sprouts with tongs. This promotes even cooking and browning.

Add Garlic & Finish Cooking

After the initial 15 minutes, open the air fryer. Sprinkle the thinly sliced or minced garlic evenly over the partially cooked sprouts. Return the basket to the air fryer. Continue to air fry for another 2 to 4 minutes, or until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant. The air fryer brussel sprouts should be beautifully golden, tender on the inside, and wonderfully crispy on the outside. Watch them closely during this final stage to prevent the garlic from burning.

Prepare Balsamic Glaze

While your sprouts are finishing in the air fryer, prepare the delightful balsamic glaze. Pour 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring the vinegar to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has thickened and starts to look syrupy, usually within 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it, as reduced vinegar can go from perfect to burned quickly. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of soy sauce until fully combined. Set the glaze aside to cool slightly.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the air fryer brussel sprouts are perfectly cooked and crispy, transfer them from the air fryer to a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle the warm, syrupy balsamic glaze generously over the cooked sprouts. For an extra pop of freshness and brightness, squeeze a bit more fresh lime juice on top, to taste. Serve these delicious sprouts immediately as a fantastic side dish.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving perfect air fryer brussel sprouts is simple with these expert tips and quick fixes.

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure an even, crispier cook from the start. This prevents sprouts from steaming.
• Proper Sprout Prep: Trim and halve sprouts uniformly. Smaller, more consistent pieces cook better and become crispier.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. A single layer is key for air circulation and crispiness.
• Achieve Maximum Crispiness: Don’t be afraid to cook a minute or two longer if they aren’t quite golden. Ensure they are dry before coating.
• Adjust Cook Times: All air fryers vary. Start with the recommended time, then check and adjust based on your appliance.
• Soggy Sprouts Issue: This usually means overcrowding or not preheating. Ensure a single layer and proper temperature.
• Burning Garlic: Add garlic only for the last few minutes of cooking. Garlic burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it.

Serving, Storage & Variations

These versatile air fryer brussel sprouts pair well with many meals and store beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious air fryer brussel sprouts as a vibrant and flavorful side dish with almost any main course. They perfectly complement roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty steak. Try adding them to your favorite grain bowls for a nutritious boost. They also make a fantastic appetizer when served with a dipping sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cooked brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results when reheating, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through and re-crisped. Freezing cooked sprouts is not recommended as they can become mushy upon thawing.

Variations

Customize your air fryer brussel sprouts with these exciting twists. Finish them with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese after cooking for a savory touch. Add crumbled crispy bacon bits along with the garlic for a smoky, salty crunch. For a spicy kick, toss the sprouts with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before air frying. Experiment with lemon pepper seasoning instead of plain salt and pepper for a zesty aroma. You could also swap the balsamic glaze for a honey-mustard dressing for a sweeter, tangier profile.

Nutrition Information

These air fryer brussel sprouts are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes fullness. A wealth of research supports the health benefits of Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are packed with essential vitamins, particularly Vitamin K and Vitamin C, contributing to bone health and immune function. This recipe uses minimal healthy fats, keeping the calorie count low while maximizing flavor and nutrient intake. It’s a guilt-free side dish perfect for any meal.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation.

FAQ

You’ve got questions about making the best air fryer brussel sprouts, and we have answers!

• Can I use frozen brussel sprouts? Yes, you can. Do not thaw them; simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, shaking frequently.
• How do I make them extra crispy? Ensure sprouts are dry before seasoning, don’t overcrowd the air fryer, and consider cooking a bit longer.
• What if my air fryer smokes? This might happen if there’s too much oil or grease. Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent this.
• Can I skip the balsamic glaze? Absolutely! These sprouts are delicious plain with just salt and pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Are brussel sprouts healthy? Yes, they are very healthy! They are low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
• How to choose fresh brussel sprouts? Look for firm, bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves and no yellowing or blemishes.

Conclusion

You now have all the tools and knowledge to create perfectly crispy and flavorful air fryer brussel sprouts with ease. This quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious recipe is ideal for busy parents and beginner cooks alike. So go ahead, give it a try tonight, and prepare to impress everyone at your table. Share your creations and feedback with us; we love hearing from you!

Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts: The Easiest Recipe

These crispy air fryer brussel sprouts are golden, tender inside, and loaded with flavor thanks to a zesty balsamic glaze — a quick and healthy side dish ready in under 20 minutes!

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Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 160

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb brussels sprouts, fresh and firm
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh lime juice, plus more for serving
• 1/2 tsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

Equipment

• Air fryer (basket or oven style)
• Large mixing bowl
• small saucepan
• Whisk
• Tongs

Method

 

1. Trim the stem ends off the brussels sprouts and remove loose outer leaves. Cut in half through the stem. Quarter any large sprouts for even cooking.
2. Place sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp kosher salt. Toss well to coat evenly.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange sprouts in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
4. Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping halfway through at the 7–8 minute mark.
5. After 15 minutes, add sliced garlic over the sprouts. Air fry for an additional 2–4 minutes until garlic is golden and sprouts are crispy.
6. In a small saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat for 2–3 minutes until syrupy. Remove from heat and whisk in 2 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, and soy sauce.
7. Transfer cooked sprouts to a serving bowl. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed for maximum crispiness. Add garlic only near the end to avoid burning. Swap lime for lemon juice, and soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com