Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe | Quick, Healthy, and Delicious

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious way to prepare Brussels sprouts, using an air fryer is the perfect solution. This Brussels sprout recipe for the air fryer offers a crispy texture and robust flavor that makes it a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a simple dinner at home or looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Brussels sprouts are often underappreciated, but when cooked right, they become a standout dish. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior, all without requiring excess oil. This recipe is easy to customize with various seasonings, making it suitable for any cuisine.

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Nutrition Facts

Brussels sprouts are a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value for one serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Vitamin C: 120% of the daily value
• Vitamin K: 140% of the daily value
• Iron: 8% of the daily value

This air fryer recipe enhances their natural flavors without adding excessive calories or fats, making it a great choice for those watching their diet.

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 12 minutes
• Resting Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 24 minutes
• Cuisine: American, versatile for others
• Course: Side Dish
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 120

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs or a spatula

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Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for serving)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt.
2. Trim the stems and remove any outer leaves that look damaged or discolored.
3. Cut larger sprouts in half for even cooking, while leaving smaller ones whole.

Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts

1. Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the sprouts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the Brussels sprouts are well-seasoned.

Step 3: Preheat and Load the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for optimal crispiness.

Step 4: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts

1. Cook the Brussels sprouts at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes. Shake the basket or flip the sprouts halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
2. Check for doneness—sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Allow the Brussels sprouts to rest for about 2 minutes.
2. If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the sprouts and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

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Tips for the Perfect Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer

1. Don’t skip the preheating step. This ensures the air fryer is at the right temperature for immediate crisping.
2. Use fresh Brussels sprouts. Frozen sprouts can become soggy when cooked in an air fryer.
3. Experiment with seasonings. Try adding chili flakes for heat, lemon zest for brightness, or honey for a touch of sweetness.
4. Adjust cooking time. Depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts and the power of your air fryer, you may need to cook them for an additional 2–3 minutes.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Brussels Sprouts?

The air fryer is a game-changer for cooking vegetables like Brussels sprouts. It uses hot air circulation to achieve a fried texture with minimal oil, making it a healthier cooking method compared to traditional frying. Additionally, the air fryer cuts down on cooking time and delivers consistently delicious results.

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Variations of the Recipe

1. Asian-Inspired: Toss the Brussels sprouts in soy sauce and sesame oil, then garnish with sesame seeds.
2. Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
3. Sweet and Savory: Combine maple syrup and Dijon mustard as a glaze after air frying.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Low in calories and rich in vitamins.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 25 minutes.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.
• Crispy and Flavorful: Achieves restaurant-quality results at home.

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Conclusion

This Brussels sprout recipe for the air fryer is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a healthy vegetable dish. With its crispy edges, tender center, and customizable flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite addition to your meals. Pair it with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty pasta for a well-rounded meal.

The air fryer has revolutionized how we cook vegetables, and this recipe is proof of that. Give it a try, and you’ll never go back to boiling or steaming Brussels sprouts again!