Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

These Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts come out crispy and full of flavor when seasoned properly. Cooking them in the air fryer is one of the best ways to prepare Brussel sprouts.

Brussel sprouts can be divisive at the dinner table: many adults enjoy them while children often resist. I cook them frequently because I love their flavor and texture.

I used to roast them in the oven, but the air fryer gives them a crisper exterior and cooks faster.

How to make Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts:

Begin by trimming and halving your Brussel sprouts. Toss them with oil and seasonings so each piece is coated.

Arrange the sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook. Serve immediately from the air fryer while they’re hot and crisp.

Ingredient Notes:

• Brussel Sprouts: Fresh, trimmed, and halved.
• Oil: A neutral oil or olive oil for coating.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, and pepper; simple but effective.

Directions:

Step One – Trim the base of each Brussel sprout and slice them in half. Place the prepared sprouts in a mixing bowl.

Step Two – Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

• Cooking Tip: To preheat, put the empty basket in the air fryer and run it for about 10 minutes.

Step Three – Add oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the sprouts. Toss until evenly coated, then transfer them to the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer.

How to Season Brussel Sprouts:

I prefer to keep the seasoning simple: a little oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These basic flavors highlight the natural taste of the sprouts and crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

• Garlic Powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Step Four – Cook for 5 minutes, then remove the basket and shake it to turn the sprouts for even browning.

Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for another 5 minutes. Check for doneness and cook an extra 2–4 minutes if your sprouts are larger or you prefer them darker.

Step Five – Remove the basket and serve immediately while the sprouts are still crisp.

If desired, top with freshly grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Tips for Amazing Brussel Sprouts:

1. Be generous with oil. Proper coating helps the seasonings stick and promotes browning.
2. Try other seasonings. Paprika, mustard powder, or a pinch of cayenne add depth and variety.
3. Add bacon if you like. Crumbled cooked bacon adds savory crunch and pairs well with the sprouts.
4. Avoid sogginess. Slice sprouts in half and lay them cut-side down in a single layer so they crisp instead of steam.

What meals do Brussel Sprouts go best with?

Brussel sprouts make a great side for roasted or barbecued mains. They pair especially well with hearty protein dishes like ribs, baked BBQ chicken, or meatloaf, balancing richer flavors with their bright, caramelized bite.

If you try this recipe, leave a comment to let me know how it turned out. I enjoy seeing readers’ variations and serving suggestions. Use the hashtag #TDOARH if you share your dish on social media.