Brussels sprouts in the air fryer? Trust me, it’s a game-changer. These little green gems transform into crispy, caramelized bites of heaven in just minutes. I used to dread soggy sprouts until I discovered this magic method—now they’re my go-to weeknight side when I’m short on time but craving something delicious.
The air fryer works its magic by blasting hot air around each sprout, giving you that perfect crunch without the mess of deep frying. My kids even gobble these up (and they used to run from anything green!). Toss them with just oil and salt, or get fancy with spices—either way, you’ll have a healthy, flavorful side dish ready before your main course finishes cooking.
Why You’ll Love These Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer
Let me count the ways these little guys will become your new obsession:
- Crispy perfection: That addictive crunch you get from restaurant sprouts? You’ll achieve it at home—no deep fryer needed.
- Ready in minutes: From fridge to table in 20 minutes flat (I’ve timed it during my busiest weeknights!).
- Good-for-you deliciousness: All the fiber and nutrients of sprouts, minus the guilt of heavy frying.
- Your flavor playground: Start basic with salt, then try everything from lemon zest to chili flakes—I change it up weekly!
Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer
Here’s all you need to make magic happen:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts (trim those tough ends and slice each in half—trust me, halving lets the crispy edges form perfectly)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (I use a measuring spoon and make sure it’s a proper glug—none of that drizzling nonsense)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (the flaky kind sticks better)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (my secret weapon, but skip it if you’re not a garlic fan)
Ingredient Substitutions
Out of something? No sweat! Avocado oil works great instead of olive oil. Swap smoked paprika for garlic powder for a smoky twist. Need salt-free? Just double up on other seasonings—I love using lemon pepper instead when watching sodium.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer
Okay, let’s turn those sprouts into crispy little flavor bombs! Here’s exactly how I do it every time:
- Preheat that air fryer to 375°F (190°C) – this gives your sprouts an instant crispy start (unlike my first attempt where I skipped this step… big mistake!).
- Toss like you mean it – in a big bowl, coat your halved sprouts with oil and seasonings until every nook and cranny is shiny. I use my hands to really massage it all in.
- Single layer only! Arrange sprouts cut-side down in the basket with space between them. Crowding = steaming (we want crunch!). Do batches if needed.
- Shake it up after 8 minutes – I give my basket a firm shake (sometimes a little flip with tongs for stubborn pieces) to ensure even browning.
- Taste-test at 12 minutes – fork-tender inside? Golden and crisp outside? You’re done! Mine usually take exactly 14 minutes, but air fryers vary.
Pro Tips for Crispy Brussels Sprouts
My hard-earned tricks: 1) Overcrowding is the enemy of crunch—give them breathing room! 2) When shaking, really jostle that basket to flip sprouts. 3) Don’t just peek—stab a sprout with a fork to test tenderness.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These crispy sprouts pair perfectly with just about anything! My family loves them alongside simple roasted chicken or flaky salmon. For extra pizzazz, shower them with grated Parmesan right out of the air fryer—the heat melts it into salty perfection. A squeeze of lemon brightens everything up beautifully.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got extras? These keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for round two, just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes—they’ll crisp right back up! (Yes, I’ve eaten them cold straight from the container too… no judgment.)
Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Oh honey, don’t do it! Frozen sprouts steam instead of crisp—you’ll end up with soggy disappointment. Fresh is absolutely worth it here.
What’s the best oil to use? Stick with high-smoke point oils like olive or avocado—they won’t burn at the high heat needed for that perfect crunch.
How do I prevent burning? Peek at the 10-minute mark! All air fryers run differently. Mine needs exactly 14 minutes, but yours might be done sooner. When they’re golden, they’re ready—don’t walk away!
Nutrition Information
Just FYI—these numbers are estimates (your exact sprouts and oil amounts may vary slightly). Per serving: 90 calories, 7g fat, 8g carbs, and a whopping 3g fiber. Not bad for something this crispy and delicious!
Try This Recipe and Tag Us!
Now that you’ve got all my crispy Brussels sprout secrets, it’s your turn to make magic happen! I want to see your beautiful golden results—snap a pic and tag me so I can cheer you on. Nothing makes me happier than seeing folks fall in love with this recipe like I did. Ready, set, air fry!
Print
21-Minute Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Magic
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful Brussels sprouts made quickly in the air fryer. A simple and healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Place sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pound
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer Brussels sprouts, crispy Brussels sprouts, healthy side dish







