Air Fryer Hack: Frozen Brussels Sprouts, Anytime

Frozen Brussels sprouts are a convenient and tasty side dish that can be made in an air fryer in under 20 minutes. The sprouts are cooked from frozen, meaning minimal preparation is required. They emerge from the air fryer tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. A variety of seasonings and toppings can be added to the sprouts to suit your tastes, such as balsamic glaze, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, or garlic powder.

How to cook frozen brussel sprouts in an air fryer

How to cook frozen Brussels sprouts in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Frozen Brussels sprouts
• Olive oil (or another neutral-flavoured oil)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Any other seasonings you like (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, etc.)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F (204°C). If your air fryer does not have a preheat function, simply turn it on for about 3 minutes.
• Place the frozen Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper (and any other seasonings you like).
• Place the seasoned sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are spread out evenly and not stacked on top of each other.
• Cook for 7-10 minutes, then shake the basket to toss the sprouts.
• Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy and slightly charred on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Serve with your choice of garnishes, such as parmesan cheese, lemon juice, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

How long to cook frozen brussel sprouts in an air fryer

Yes, you can use frozen brussels sprouts in an air fryer!

Here's how to cook frozen brussels sprouts in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Frozen brussels sprouts
• Olive oil (or coconut oil)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or other seasonings

Method:

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). You can skip this step if your air fryer doesn't have a preheat function, or if you prefer not to preheat.

Next, add the frozen brussels sprouts to a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Toss to combine and coat the sprouts evenly.

Place the seasoned sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they're not overcrowded. This will ensure that the hot air can circulate and crisp up the sprouts.

Cook for 7-10 minutes, then shake the basket and cook for another 5-10 minutes, depending on how crispy you like your sprouts. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.

Once they're done to your liking, serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

You can add other ingredients like bacon, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavour.

If you're using fresh brussels sprouts, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh sprouts will likely cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

You can also cook frozen brussels sprouts in the oven. Preheat the oven to 450°F and follow the same steps as above. Bake for 10 minutes, toss, and then bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the sprouts are crispy.

How to store leftover brussel sprouts

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in an air fryer. In fact, it's a quick and easy way to cook Brussels sprouts, taking under 20 minutes to make a tasty, tender and crispy side dish.

Now, onto storing leftover Brussels sprouts.

How to Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts:

Brussels sprouts are best stored in an airtight container or a plastic zip-top bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days but are best eaten within two days for optimal taste and quality.

How to Store Fresh Brussels Sprouts:

If you're storing fresh, unwashed, and untrimmed Brussels sprouts, it's best to keep them in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, but their taste will get stronger and less sweet over time.

It is recommended to remove any yellowed or wilted leaves and only wash the sprouts right before using them, as the moisture can cause decay.

If you're storing loose Brussels sprouts, you can keep them in the plastic produce bag in the crisper drawer. If you have the option, turn up the humidity to help them stay fresh for longer.

How to Store Brussels Sprouts on the Stalk:

Brussels sprouts on the stalk will stay fresh the longest. Trim the end and place the stalk in a small vase or jar with water, then store it in the fridge. If your fridge is not tall enough, you can chop the stalk and store the pieces in an airtight container.

How to Store Cut Brussels Sprouts:

For cut, sliced, shredded, or chopped Brussels sprouts, use an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. These will spoil the fastest, so it's best to use them within three to four days.

Can you use frozen brussel sprouts in an air fryer without defrosting?

Yes, you can use frozen brussel sprouts in an air fryer without defrosting them first. In fact, it is recommended that you cook them from frozen to avoid sogginess.

Ingredients:

• Frozen brussel sprouts
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Any other seasonings of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to between 390-400°F (200°C). You can skip this step if your air fryer doesn't require preheating.
• In a mixing bowl, add the frozen brussel sprouts (do not thaw) and coat them with olive oil and your desired seasonings. Toss to coat evenly.
• Transfer the seasoned brussel sprouts to the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them for the hot air to circulate.
• Cook for 10-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the brussel sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The cooking time will depend on your air fryer and your desired level of crispiness.
• Serve immediately while still hot. You can garnish with parmesan cheese, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy side dish!

How to make frozen brussel sprouts crispy in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Frozen brussel sprouts
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Any other seasonings you like (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, etc.)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F. If your air fryer does not have a preheat function, simply turn it on for about 3 minutes.
• Place the frozen brussel sprouts in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Toss to combine and spread in an even layer.
• Cook for 10 minutes, then shake the basket and cook for a further 5-10 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy and tender.
• Serve immediately with your choice of garnishes or sauces (e.g. parmesan, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, buffalo sauce, etc.).

Tips:

• If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to cook the sprouts in two batches to ensure even cooking.
• Try not to stack the sprouts in the air fryer basket. For best results, cook in a single layer to allow the hot air to circulate.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and crisping.
• If you want your sprouts softer in the centre, soak them in water for 10 minutes before air frying.
• If you are using fresh brussel sprouts, reduce the cooking time as they will cook faster.

Frequently asked questions