10 Easy Steps to Cook Brussels Sprouts in an Air Fryer
To cook Brussels sprouts in your air fryer, start by trimming and halving them, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
These easy Brussels sprouts air fryer recipes bring out a delicious crispiness with minimal effort. Optionally soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness and improve tenderness.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, then cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Add sliced garlic near the end for extra flavor. Aim for golden-brown crispiness, serve immediately, and enjoy.
There’s plenty more to explore with tips and tricks ahead to perfect your Brussels sprouts air fryer dishes.
Key Takeaways
- Trim and halve 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, then toss with 2 teaspoons olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- Optional: Soak sprouts in warm water for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness and enhance tenderness.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.
- Cook sprouts at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even browning; add sliced garlic during the last few minutes.
- Serve immediately topped with Parmesan cheese and optional drizzle of balsamic glaze or maple syrup for extra flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients
To get started, gather one pound of fresh Brussels sprouts, trimming the ends and removing any brown outer leaves before halving them. Next, measure out 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil to coat the sprouts evenly. For seasoning, grab ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper—these simple spices bring out the sprouts’ natural flavor.
If you want a little extra punch, thinly slice 3 cloves of garlic to add during cooking. Finally, have some freshly grated Parmesan cheese ready to sprinkle on after the sprouts are cooked. Making sure all these ingredients are prepped and ready will streamline your cooking process and help you enjoy delicious, perfectly seasoned Brussels sprouts every time.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Once you’ve trimmed the ends and removed any brown leaves, halve the Brussels sprouts from stem to tip to guarantee they cook evenly and get nice and crispy. This cut increases the surface area, helping the sprouts brown beautifully in your air fryer. While you won’t soak them here—that’s for the next step—make certain to pat your halved Brussels sprouts dry if you do choose to soak later, to avoid sogginess.
Next, toss the Brussels sprouts with about 2 teaspoons of olive oil, which helps them crisp up perfectly. Add your preferred seasoning like ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper to bring out their natural flavors. Proper preparation guarantees your Brussels sprouts come out tender inside and crispy outside every time.
Optional Soaking for Tenderness
Although you don’t have to soak Brussels sprouts before air frying, doing so can make a noticeable difference in tenderness and flavor. When you soak the Brussels sprouts in warm water for about 10 minutes, it helps enhance their tenderness by allowing them to absorb moisture. This moisture guarantees the cooked sprouts have an evenly cooked interior, preventing dryness inside.
Soaking also reduces any bitterness, giving a milder taste that’s more enjoyable. After soaking, when you air fry for 15 minutes at the right temperature, you’ll achieve that perfect balance: a crispy outer layer without sacrificing softness inside. This simple step helps you get deliciously tender sprouts with a satisfying crunch every time.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about 3 minutes. This sets the perfect temperature and guarantees even cooking for crispy Brussels sprouts.
Be sure to check your air fryer’s instructions, as preheating times can vary by model.
Ideal Temperature Settings
To get perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F, which guarantees even browning and crisping. This temperature is the ideal setting for cooking Brussels sprouts because it maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking time, ensuring they cook evenly without burning.
Before adding your sprouts, preheat the air fryer for about 3 minutes so the heat is ready to start crisping immediately. Keep in mind that some air fryer models might need slight tweaks to the temperature settings, so watch your sprouts closely the first time. This helps you avoid over-browning while achieving that perfect crispy Brussels sprouts texture everyone loves.
Following these ideal temperature settings will make your air fryer experience simple and delicious.
Preheating Duration Guidelines
When you preheat your air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes at 375°F, you guarantee it’s ready to crisp your Brussels sprouts evenly right from the start. Preheating brings the air fryer to the ideal temperature, which is essential for achieving that crispy texture you want. It also guarantees even cooking and reduces overall cooking time since the sprouts begin cooking immediately upon placement.
Here’s a simple preheating guideline:
- Set your air fryer to 375°F.
- Let it run empty for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add your Brussels sprouts and start cooking.
Keep in mind, some models don’t require preheating, so check your air fryer’s manual. Proper preheating is key to delicious, crispy Brussels sprouts every time.
Season the Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming the ends of your Brussels sprouts and removing any brown outer leaves, then cut them in half lengthwise to help the seasoning stick evenly. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen Brussels sprouts, this step guarantees better flavor absorption.
Next, toss the sprouts with a tablespoon of olive oil to promote that crispy air fryer Brussels texture on the outside while keeping them tender inside. Sprinkle about ½ teaspoon of kosher salt to season Brussels perfectly, enhancing their natural taste without overpowering it.
Make certain every piece is coated uniformly—this prevents bland spots and helps them cook evenly. With these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly seasoned Brussels sprouts ready for air frying.
Arrange the Sprouts in the Basket
Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to secure even cooking and crisping. Properly arrange them to avoid overcrowding, which can cause uneven cooking and soggy spots.
Keep these points in mind:
- Halve larger sprouts to expose more surface area for crisping and reduce cooking time.
- Confirm the basket isn’t packed beyond its capacity—about 1 pound works well for most air fryers.
- Shake or rotate the basket halfway through cooking to promote uniform browning.
Cook the Brussels Sprouts
You’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F for the best results. Cook the Brussels sprouts for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to guarantee they crisp evenly.
This temperature and timing will give you tender, golden-brown sprouts every time.
Air Fryer Temperature Settings
Setting your air fryer to 375°F is ideal for cooking Brussels sprouts to a perfect crisp. This temperature guarantees peak cooking, giving you crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts without burning them.
If you prefer a quicker, crispier result, you can increase the heat to 400°F, but watch the cooking time closely.
To get the best outcome:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for even heat distribution.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to maintain airflow and crispiness.
- Shake or stir halfway through the cooking time to guarantee even cooking and browning.
Following these temperature settings helps you achieve deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts every time.
Cooking Time and Technique
Cooking Brussels sprouts in your air fryer takes about 12 to 15 minutes at 375°F after a quick 3-minute preheat. Start by tossing trimmed Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper to make sure they crisp up nicely.
Place them in the air fryer basket and cook, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and achieve that super crispy texture. If you want extra flavor, add sliced garlic during the last few minutes so it doesn’t burn but turns golden brown instead.
Keep an eye on the cooking time since sizes and air fryer models vary, adjusting as needed. This technique guarantees perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts with a deliciously crispy finish every time.
Add Garlic for Extra Flavor
When you add garlic to Brussels sprouts, their flavor instantly becomes richer and more aromatic. To get the perfect balance, follow these steps:
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and thinly sliced garlic before placing them in the air fryer.
- Cook the Brussels sprouts for 10 minutes, then add the garlic to avoid burning.
- Continue cooking for another 2-4 minutes until the garlic is golden brown and the Brussels sprouts are crispy.
Using about 3 cloves of sliced garlic guarantees the flavor complements rather than overpowers. If you prefer, try garlic powder for a milder taste that won’t burn.
About 3 cloves of sliced garlic ensure a balanced flavor; garlic powder offers a milder, burn-free alternative.
This method assures your air fryer Brussels sprouts will have a delicious, savory depth with a crispy, golden brown finish.
Check for Desired Crispiness
How crispy do you like your Brussels sprouts? When cooking them in an Air Fryer at 375°F, it’s important to check for desired crispiness after the initial 10 minutes of cooking time. Halfway through, don’t forget to shake the basket to guarantee even crisping on all sides and prevent burning.
After adding garlic, continue cooking for an additional 2 to 4 minutes until you see a golden-brown color—that’s your crispy texture cue. Keep in mind, larger Brussels sprouts may need extra time, while smaller ones crisp up faster, so monitor closely.
Serve and Enjoy
Once your Brussels sprouts have reached that perfect golden-brown crispiness, it’s best to serve them right away to enjoy their ideal texture and flavor. To elevate your dish, consider these steps:
- Drizzle toppings like balsamic glaze, pomegranate molasses, or maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts for a sweet, tangy twist.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or toasted nuts to add flavor and crunch.
- Pair the sprouts with your favorite main dishes, such as chicken, pork, or fish, to complete your meal.
If you have leftovers, enjoy them within 4 days by reheating in the air fryer at 375°F for 3 minutes to restore crispiness. Serving immediately guarantees you get the best out of your Brussels sprouts every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in an air fryer. Just make sure to preheat the air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking. You might want to toss them with a bit of oil and your favorite seasonings before air frying.
Since they’re frozen, cook them a few minutes longer than fresh sprouts, usually around 15-20 minutes at 375°F. Shake the basket halfway through for crispiness.
What Is the Best Oil to Use for Air Frying Brussels Sprouts?
The best oil to use for air frying Brussels sprouts is one with a high smoke point, like avocado oil or light olive oil. These oils can handle the high heat without burning, giving your sprouts a nice crispy texture. You could also use grapeseed or sunflower oil.
Avoid extra virgin olive oil since it has a lower smoke point and might burn, affecting flavor. Just toss your sprouts with a bit of oil before air frying.
How Do I Store Leftover Air-Fried Brussels Sprouts?
To store leftover air-fried Brussels sprouts, cool them completely, pack them tightly in an airtight container, and refrigerate promptly.
You’ll want to use them within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture. When reheating, crisp them up again in the air fryer or oven to bring back that delicious crunch.
Avoid leaving them out too long, or they’ll lose freshness and flavor quickly.
Can I Add Cheese to Brussels Sprouts After Air Frying?
Yes, you can definitely add cheese to Brussels sprouts after air frying. Once your sprouts are cooked and still warm, sprinkle grated Parmesan, shredded cheddar, or crumbled feta on top. The residual heat will help the cheese melt slightly, enhancing the flavor.
You could also toss them with a cheesy sauce or add cheese during the last minute of air frying for a gooey finish. Just experiment to find your favorite combo!
Is It Safe to Air Fry Brussels Sprouts Without Oil?
Yes, you can air fry Brussels sprouts without oil, and it’s safe to do so. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook, so the sprouts will still get crispy on the outside.
Just keep in mind they might not be as golden or rich in flavor as when you use a little oil. You can always add seasoning or a drizzle of olive oil after cooking for extra taste.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to gather, prepare, season, and cook your Brussels sprouts in the air fryer, you’re ready to enjoy a quick, crispy, and flavorful side dish.
You’ll save time, boost flavor, and impress your guests—all with minimal effort.
So, get your sprouts ready, fire up your air fryer, and savor every bite.
Cooking Brussels sprouts in an air fryer has never been easier, tastier, or more satisfying!
With these 10 easy steps to cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, you can enjoy a delicious, healthy, and crispy vegetable side any day of the week.
