Prepare to revolutionise your cooking with this delicious and easy Air fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe. Look no further than this quick air fryer recipe that guarantees crispy Brussels sprouts every time. From the simple preparation to the mouthwatering results, this healthy vegetable side dish will make you wonder why you haven’t tried it before. Impress your family and friends with this easy Brussels sprouts recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Become an expert in cooking sprouts and carrots with the help of your air fryer. Achieve the perfect balance of crispiness, tenderness and healthiness with this easy recipe.
Why you’ll love this easy air fryer sprouts recipe
These Air fryer Brussels Sprouts are a game-changer when cooking Brussels sprouts. They are so easy to make and what is great is that you can prepare them in advance and roast them in the air fryer when you are ready.
This recipe is a time-saver! With simple preparation and the efficiency of the air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, tasty Brussels sprouts in just minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal ideas. Plus of course, being a Christmas classic.
They offer a delectable combination of a crispiness and tenderness texture. While also being really full of flavour.
Packed with nutrients and cooked using minimal oil, these air fryer Brussels sprouts are a guilt-free side dish or snack. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness while delivering a satisfying crunch.
This recipe elevates these humble vegetables to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Whether you’re serving these Air fryer Brussels Sprouts as a low-carb side dish or a snack, this recipe works for any occasion. From family dinners to holiday feasts, it’s guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
For the full recipe and instructions scroll to the bottom of the page for the recipe card.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts look like miniature cabbage that often get a bad reputation. However, they are about to undergo a miraculous transformation in your air fryer.
When it comes to Brussels sprouts, many people have memories of soggy, overcooked vegetables that were far from enjoyable. But with the help of your air fryer, you can say goodbye to those disappointing vegetables and hello to perfectly cooked sprouts.
The magic of the air fryer lies in its ability to circulate hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender centre. This means that Brussels sprouts no longer have to be a mushy, bland side dish; they can now become a star on your plate.
Olive Oil
For this recipe, you’ll need a drizzle of olive oil to coat the sprouts and help them achieve that desired crispness.
Olive oil complements Brussels sprouts really well as it doesn’t have a strong flavour it won’t fight against the sprouts.
How to Make Air fryer Brussels Sprouts – Step by Step
Keep scrolling to find the full printable instructions and ingredient quantities.
Remove the outer layers of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half for a quicker cooking time. You can keep them whole if you want.
Boil a saucepan of water and parboil the sprouts for 3 minutes if cut in half or for 5 minutes if they are whole.
Drizzle over the olive oil, and stir in the garlic along with the salt and pepper.
Roast the sprouts in the air fryer for about 8 minutes. I prefer the sprouts to be slightly crispy so I normally add a minute or 2.
Air fryer Brussels Sprouts Top Tips
Consider the size of your Brussels sprouts before placing them in the air fryer. To ensure consistent cooking, try to select sprouts of similar size. This way, they will all cook at the same rate. It’s also worth turning the vegetables over halfway through.
After drizzling the oil over the sprouts in a bowl, gently toss them to coat them evenly. Be cautious not to go overboard with the oil, as it may result in greasy sprouts. A light and even coating is all you need to strike the ideal balance between crispness and flavour.
Give your sprouts enough space in the air fryer. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. By allowing some space between each sprout, you create optimal airflow.
Serving Suggestions for easy air fryer sprouts
The perfect addition for a roast dinner
There is nothing better than serving these air fryer sprouts with a roast dinner.
But if you’re looking to make a full meal with roasted veggies in the air fryer, try air fryer sprouts and carrots.
As a Side Dish
Pair the crispy Brussels sprouts with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a juicy steak. The sprouts’ rich, roasted flavour complements them perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.
Tossed in a Healthy Bowl
Add the Brussels sprouts to a hearty grain bowl with quinoa, brown rice, etc. Top with a drizzle of tahini or balsamic glaze and include other veggies like roasted sweet potatoes or chickpeas for a satisfying, nutritious meal.
Topped with Cheese
Serve these crispy Brussels sprouts hot and sprinkle them with grated Parmesan, crumbled feta, or shredded vegan cheese for an indulgent twist.
In a festive Salad
Toss the roasted sprouts into a fresh salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. The contrast of crispy sprouts and fresh ingredients adds texture and of course delicious flavour to your salad.
Equipment
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- Air Fryer
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Saucepan
- colander
- Air fryer-proof dish
I use the Cosori Air Fryer 4.7L air fryer and I would really recommend it. It’s easy to use and really easy to clean too. It has clear-to-use buttons and an easy-to-remove basket for cleaning.
Air fryer Brussels Sprouts – Substitutions and variations
Here are three substitutions and variations for an air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe:
Substitute Oil with Cooking Spray
For a lower-calorie option, skip the oil and use a light cooking spray. This way you will still keep crispy Brussels sprouts without adding extra fat. Perfect for a healthy vegetable side dish.
Add Bacon or Plant-Based Alternatives
For extra flavour, stir in chopped bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative before air frying. This variation adds a smoky depth that complements the roasted sprouts beautifully. Bacon makes everything better.
With the addition of bacon, these air-fried sprouts become even more versatile. They can be enjoyed as a delightful side dish but also as a tasty topping for salads, sandwiches, or even as a standalone dish.
Spice It Up with Seasonings
Experiment with seasoning like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added spice. For an Asian twist, drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil before cooking.
Seasoning and spices
Try experimenting with different seasonings and spices to boost the flavour of your sprouts. Whether you prefer a classic blend of salt and pepper or want to venture into more adventurous combinations like garlic powder and paprika, don’t hesitate to get creative.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey
Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness but also helps caramelise the sprouts as they cook, creating a delicious glaze.
Once your sprouts are evenly coated, carefully transfer them to the air fryer safe dish. Spread them out to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides. Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking.
Balsamic Honey Glaze
To create the Balsamic Honey Glaze for your spouts, you’ll only need balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Combine 4 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and two tablespoons of honey along with the salt and pepper. Stir the mixture gently until the honey is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
Once the glaze is ready, place the sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle the glaze over them. Use a spoon or tongs to toss the sprouts gently, ensuring that each one is coated with the delicious glaze. Then cook as per the instructions as in the recipe card below.
The balsamic vinegar brings a tangy, slightly acidic note to the sprouts, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the honey. As the glaze caramelises in the air fryer, it forms a delightful sticky coating.
Add Parmesan
Grate your Parmesan cheese over the sprouts before you roast them in the air fryer. Cheesey sprouts are a glorious way to enjoy them.
Storing easy air fryer sprouts / Making ahead of time options
Once the sprouts have cooled, place them in an airtight container or resealable bag. It’s best to use a container that is just the right size to avoid leaving excess air space, as this can cause the sprouts to dry out.
To further extend the shelf life of your cooked sprouts, store them in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their freshness for up to 3-4 days.
Air fryer Brussels Sprouts FAQS
- How long to cook halved brussel sprouts in air fry?
- Why did my brussel sprouts burn in the air fryer?
- Do you need to soak Brussels Sprouts before cooking?
- Is it better to roast Brussel sprouts whole or cut in half?
How long to cook halved brussel sprouts in air fryer?
Halved Brussels sprouts take about 4-6 minutes to cook in the air fryer when they have been par-boiled. From raw they will take about 10-14 minutes in the air fryer.
I would definitely recommend parboiling the spouts first for the best results.
Why did my Brussels sprouts burn in the air fryer?
The best way to make sure your sprouts don’t burn in the air fryer is to be sure to cook them at the right temperature. Parboiling will also help reduce the possibility of burning your sprouts. It’s also important to turn the sprouts halfway through.
Do you need to soak Brussels Sprouts before cooking?
You don’t need to soak Brussels Sprouts before cooking. All you need to do to prepare sprouts is to remove the outer layer and if keeping them whole trim off the a little bit of the stalk. This removes where they have dried out.
Is it better to roast Brussels sprouts whole or cut in half?
I prefer roasting Brussels sprouts cut in half as they are easier to eat when they are cooked. When they are whole sometimes they can fly off plates when you try to cut them! A bite-size piece always gets my vote.
Other Recipes you might like
Air Fryer Camembert
Air Fryer Sausage Rolls
Air Fryer Mince Pies
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Recipe
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer-proof dish
Ingredients
- 400 g Brussels Sprouts
- Olive Oil
- Salt and pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic (or 1 teaspoon of crushed or easy garlic)
Instructions
- Remove the outer layers of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half for a quicker cooking time. You can keep them whole if you want.400 g Brussels Sprouts
- Boil a saucepan of water and parboil the sprouts for 3 minutes if cut in half. 5 minutes if whole.
- Drain the sprouts and add to the baking tin.
- Drizzle over the olive oil, and stir in the garlic along with the salt and pepper.Olive Oil, Salt and pepper, 2 cloves Garlic
When you are ready to cook the Brussels sprouts
- Add the sprouts to the air fryer and set the temperature to 180ºC / 356ºF.
- Roast the sprouts for about about 5 minutes if cut in half and 6-8 minutes for whole sprouts. I prefer the sprouts to be slightly crispy so normally add a minute or two extra. Give them a stir halfway through cooking.
- They are ready to serve.
Nutrition
Please note that the nutrition information provided above is approximate and meant as a guideline only.
First published in November 2023. Updated November 2024.
I made these sprouts with dinner tonight and they were perfect! Even the kids loved them!
This was such a quick and easy dish that does not disappoint! Paired perfectly with our chicken dinner; even my picky eaters gobbled them up!
Yum! Love how quick and easy and approachable this recipe is. It’s great for busy weeknights. Thanks for sharing!
What an easy and delicious way to prepare Brussel sprouts! I love how crispy they get, and the air fryer seems to enhance their natural sweetness, too.
These turned out perfectly crispy in the air fryer! A great easy side dish that we’ll be making often!