Air frying is the ideal way to transform these often-unpopular vegetables, and now I’m totally in love with Brussels sprouts! This air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe has completely changed my perspective on these little green beauties. Air frying Brussels sprouts is a quick and simple method that makes them crispy and delicious without the need for excessive oil or the mess that comes with traditional roasting or pan-frying. It’s the perfect solution for preparing fast, healthy sides that everyone will enjoy. You can easily customize your air-fried sprouts with flavours like garlic, balsamic vinegar, or even Parmesan cheese, as I have used here, to enhance the taste.
These air fryer Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and make the perfect healthy side dish. What’s even better is that they’re ready in just ten minutes thanks to the speedy air fryer. The quick cooking time means you don’t have to wait long to enjoy this crunchy, tender vegetable, and they come out with the ideal texture. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a great way to enjoy Brussels sprouts without all the fuss.
To add a bit more variety and flavour, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the hot sprouts adds a refreshing zing, or you could drizzle a little honey or maple syrup to balance the natural bitterness with a touch of sweetness. If you’re looking to make this dish more substantial, consider tossing in some toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, right before serving. Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but they also provide healthy fats and extra fibre, making this dish even more satisfying.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 8 minutes
SERVES: 2 people as a side dish
KIT you will need an air fryer.
Ingredients for air fryer brussel sprouts
160g Brussel sprouts (around 16 medium sized sprouts will serve 2 people as a side dish)
Fresh red chilli, sliced
Parmesan cheese, grated
Vegetable oil spray
Salt and pepper
Method
Start by washing your Brussels sprouts thoroughly under a cold tap to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the tough stems at the base of each sprout and peel away any brown or damaged outer leaves. So depending on your preference, you can leave the sprouts whole or cut them in halves or quarters. Cutting them helps them cook faster and allows more of those delicious crispy edges to form.
Next, spray the Brussels sprouts with a little garlic oil spray. I like using Fry Light, but any light vegetable oil spray will work just fine. Then season generously with salt and pepper. Place them in your air fryer basket, making sure they’re in a single layer with space between them. This helps them cook evenly and get that irresistible golden finish.
Then air fry at 180°C for around 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides cook evenly. If your sprouts are particularly large, they may need a couple of extra minutes. Just keep an eye on them as air fryer models can vary in their cooking times.
So once they’re perfectly crispy and golden brown, carefully remove them from the air fryer. While they’re still hot, grate over some fresh parmesan cheese – or another hard cheese of your choice – and top with thinly sliced red chilli for a little kick.
These air fried Brussels sprouts are not only incredibly tasty but also packed full of nutritional benefits. They are high in Vitamin C and K, full of antioxidants, and a great source of dietary fibre. Low in calories but high in nutrients, Brussels sprouts make an ideal healthy side dish or snack, especially when cooked like this – quick, easy, and full of flavour.
Tips for Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
1. Choose fresh, firm sprouts
Look for small to medium-sized Brussels sprouts that feel firm and compact. Larger ones tend to be more bitter and take longer to cook.
2. Trim and halve
Trim the tough ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut them in half lengthwise so they cook evenly and get crispy edges.
3. Dry thoroughly
After washing, pat your sprouts dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Moisture can cause steaming rather than crisping in the air fryer.
4. Use a light coating of oil
Toss the sprouts in a tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred oil. This helps them brown beautifully and enhances the flavour.
5. Season well
Add salt and pepper before cooking. You can also experiment with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for an extra kick.
6. Preheat the air fryer
It always helps to preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for about 3 minutes to ensure an even cooking from the start.
7. Don’t overcrowd the basket
Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer with some space between to promote crispiness. Leave the crisper plates in. Cook in batches if needed.
8. Shake or stir halfway
Toss or shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get evenly crispy and browned.
9. Cook time matters
Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on size and desired crispiness. Smaller sprouts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
10. Add finishing touches
Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking for extra flavour.
With these tips, your air fryer Brussels sprouts will come out perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavour every single time!
Similar recipes
If you love these healthy air fryer brussel sprouts you might also like my air fryer broccoli bites recipe. Brussel sprouts will of course go perfectly with my air fryer turkey crown at Christmas.
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