15-Minute Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts—Crispy & Irresistible

Name: 15-Minute Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts—Crispy & Irresistible
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Author: lia

Published: October 19, 2025

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Let me tell you, there’s something magical about crispy Brussels sprouts—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and just the right amount of char. I used to think roasting them in the oven was the only way to go, but then I discovered the air fryer. Game. Changer. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are not only quicker (we’re talking 15 minutes!), but they come out perfectly golden every single time. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, which is a win in my book. This recipe has become my go-to side dish, whether I’m cooking for myself or impressing guests. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked too!

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts - detail 1

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Let me count the ways these little green gems will win you over:

Crispy perfection every time: That irresistible crunch with a tender center? The air fryer delivers it flawlessly—no soggy sprouts here!
Ready in 15 minutes flat: Faster than preheating my oven, honestly. Weeknight dinner savior.
Healthy but feels indulgent: Just a touch of oil transforms them into something that tastes downright decadent.
Almost zero cleanup: One bowl for tossing, the air fryer basket—done. (My lazy side cheers!)

Seriously, these might just convert Brussels sprout skeptics. My niece—who once hid them in her napkin—now asks for seconds!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

You only need a handful of ingredients to make these crispy Brussels sprouts magic happen:

1 lb Brussels sprouts – Trim the stems and halve them for even cooking.
1 tbsp olive oil – Just enough to coat them for that perfect crisp.
½ tsp salt – Brings out all the flavors.
¼ tsp black pepper – A little kick never hurts.
¼ tsp garlic powder – Adds that savory depth we all love.

Simple, right? That’s the beauty of this recipe—minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.

How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Alright, let’s get cooking! These crispy Brussels sprouts are so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the oven. Here’s how to nail it every time:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this step makes a difference—it ensures even cooking and that perfect crispiness.
Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. I like to use a big bowl and get my hands in there to make sure every sprout is coated. (Bonus: It’s oddly satisfying!)
Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding is the enemy of crispiness, so if you’re doubling the recipe, cook in batches.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This keeps them from sticking and ensures they get golden all over.
Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Warning: These disappear fast!

That’s it! In just 15 minutes, you’ve got a side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and totally addictive. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts - detail 2

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Want restaurant-level Brussels sprouts at home? Here’s how I get them just right:

Don’t skimp on space: Crowding = steaming. Spread them in a single layer—even if it means two batches!
Shake it like Polaroid picture: That halfway shake? Non-negotiable for even crispiness.
Crazy crispy? Add 2 extra minutes at the end—they’ll turn into addictive little chips.
Size matters: Cut larger sprouts into quarters so everything cooks evenly.

Oh, and sneak a taste test straight from the basket—chef’s privilege!

Variations for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Once you’ve mastered the basics, try these easy twists to keep things exciting:

Parmesan sprinkle: Toss with grated Parm right after cooking—it melts into salty, cheesy perfection.
Balsamic drizzle: A quick glaze adds sweet tang (my sister’s favorite!).
Spicy kick: Toss with chili flakes or smoked paprika before air frying.

The best part? You can mix and match—I’ve been known to do all three at once!

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

These crispy Brussels sprouts are crazy versatile—here’s how I love to serve them:

Classic pairing: Toss them next to roasted chicken or seared salmon for a simple, hearty meal.
Holiday superstar: They’re my go-to Thanksgiving side (frees up oven space too!).
Bowl game: Pile them over quinoa with a fried egg for an easy veggie-packed lunch.

Honestly? I’ve eaten them straight from the basket while standing at the counter—no shame!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring back that crispy magic, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 2-3 minutes—no soggy sprouts here. (Microwaving works in a pinch, but the air fryer keeps them crisp!)

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but I recommend thawing them first and patting them dry. Frozen sprouts release more moisture, which can make them soggy. If you’re short on time, add a couple of extra minutes to the cook time and shake the basket more frequently.

How do I prevent sogginess?
The key is not overcrowding the basket! Spread them in a single layer, and shake halfway through cooking. Also, make sure your air fryer is preheated—it makes a huge difference.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the sprouts ahead by trimming and halving them, but I’d recommend cooking them fresh for the best texture. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to bring back the crispiness.

What if I don’t have garlic powder?
No problem! You can use fresh minced garlic or skip it altogether. A pinch of onion powder or smoked paprika works great as a substitute too.

How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside with a fork-tender center. If in doubt, taste one—it’s the best way to know!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the breakdown for one serving (about ¼ of the recipe): 80 calories, 4g fat (0.5g saturated), 10g carbs, 4g fiber, 2g sugar, and 3g protein. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands or portion sizes. Still, it’s a healthy side you can feel good about!

Final Thoughts

Give these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts a try—I promise they’ll become your new favorite side! Drop a comment if you do; I’d love to hear how yours turn out. Happy cooking!

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