Description
This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe delivers crispy, tender sprouts with a delightful caramelized exterior. Easily prepared with olive oil, garlic, and simple seasonings, these Brussels sprouts are perfect as a healthy side dish or snack. Optional toppings like balsamic glaze, pomegranate molasses, maple syrup, and Parmesan cheese add extra flavor and depth.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (optional but delish!)
Optional Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
- Drizzle pomegranate molasses
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim off the ends and remove any brown outer leaves. Cut the sprouts in half from stem to end. For larger sprouts, cut into quarters to ensure even cooking.
- Optional soaking: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and cover with warm tap water. Let them sit for 10 minutes to tenderize slightly, then drain and pat dry with a towel.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat to 375 degrees Fahrenheit according to your air fryer’s instructions, typically about 3 minutes.
- Season the sprouts: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
- Air fry the Brussels sprouts: Place the seasoned sprouts in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes. Remove the basket and shake to promote even cooking. Cook another 5 minutes, then shake the basket again; the sprouts should be almost crispy.
- Add garlic and finish cooking: Add the thinly sliced garlic to the sprouts, toss to combine, and cook for an additional 2 to 4 minutes, shaking the basket frequently until the sprouts are deeply crisped.
- Add toppings and serve: Transfer the crispy Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Toss with any optional toppings like balsamic glaze, pomegranate molasses, maple syrup, or Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- TO STORE: Refrigerate Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for best texture.
- TO FREEZE: Freezing is not recommended as sprouts become mushy once thawed. If freezing, use an airtight container for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- If you prefer firmer sprouts, skip the soaking step.
- Shake the air fryer basket frequently during cooking for even crisping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
