Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts transform a once-dreaded vegetable into addictive, caramelized bites with crispy outer leaves and tender centers. The high heat of the air fryer chars the edges and brings out a deep, nutty sweetness. Serve them as a side dish with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of parmesan.
- ⏱ 15 min
- 📊 easy
- 🍽 Family
Ingredients
- 500 g brussels sprouts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- to finish balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Trim the dry ends off about 500g (1lb) of Brussels sprouts and remove any loose or yellowed outer leaves, then slice each sprout in half lengthwise.
- Toss the halved sprouts in a bowl with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated, making sure oil gets between the layers.
- Preheat the air fryer to 190C (375F) so the sprouts begin to sizzle as soon as they go in.
- Arrange the sprouts in a single layer, ideally cut-side down, and avoid crowding the basket so the hot air can reach every piece.
- Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice partway through, until the outsides are deeply browned and crispy and the centers are fork-tender.
- Keep an eye on the loose leaves that fall off, as they crisp up fastest and may need to be pulled out a couple of minutes early to avoid burning.
- Toss the hot sprouts with a finishing touch such as a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or grated parmesan, then serve right away while crisp.
💡 Chef's tip
Cut each sprout in half and place them cut-side down in the basket, since the flat surface makes direct contact with the heat and develops a deeply browned, crispy face.
Halving the sprouts and placing them cut-side down gives a flat surface that caramelizes deeply, turning their natural sugars sweet instead of bitter.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbs: 14 g
- Fat: 7 g
