Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Cooking Time Perfection

Cooking Brussels sprouts in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a tasty, crispy side dish. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook your sprouts in batches, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer. You'll want to cook them for around 10 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they are evenly cooked.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for Brussels sprouts in an air fryer will depend on how crispy you like them. If you like them dark and crispy, you should cook them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-14 minutes, then air fry for a second time at the same temperature for 8-10 minutes. If you prefer them less crispy, you can cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

If you have a 10-quart fryer, you can cook them in a single batch at 390 degrees for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If your sprouts look crowded in the basket, you may need to cook them in two batches, keeping the first batch warm in an oven set to 170 degrees F (75 degrees C).

Make sure to preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to season sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a versatile vegetable that can be seasoned in many ways to add flavour and make them more interesting. Here are some ideas on how to season sprouts:

Balsamic Glaze

A quick way to achieve the classic balsamic Brussels sprouts side dish is to drizzle and toss them in a balsamic glaze. This will give the sprouts a tangy and slightly sweet flavour.

Shallot Butter

Finely chop a medium shallot and add it to two tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Add one teaspoon of red wine vinegar and stir to combine. This mixture can be used to season the sprouts, giving them a rich and savoury flavour.

Neutral-flavoured oil spray

Spraying the air fryer basket with a neutral-flavoured oil spray before adding the sprouts will help to ensure that they don't stick and will also add a subtle flavour.

Salt and Pepper

A simple way to season sprouts is to add salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the natural flavour of the sprouts without overwhelming them.

Other herbs and spices

Depending on your taste preferences, you can also experiment with adding other herbs and spices to your sprouts. For example, you could try garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Just add a small amount of your chosen herb or spice to the sprouts before cooking and adjust the amount to your taste.

How to arrange sprouts in the air fryer

When cooking Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, it's important to arrange them in a single layer in the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Make sure to spray the basket with a neutral-flavoured oil spray first. If any leaves become separated from the sprouts, remove them to prevent burning.

It's also important to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and browning. You can also rotate the pans in larger air fryers. The cooking time will vary depending on your desired level of crispiness and the temperature setting. For example, at 375°F (190°C), cook for 10 to 12 minutes. However, if you prefer darker, crispier sprouts, you can cook them at 400°F for 12-14 minutes, followed by a second air fry at the same temperature for 8-10 minutes.

If you have a 10-quart fryer, you may find that your sprouts look crowded in the basket. In this case, it's best to cook them in two batches, keeping the first batch warm in a 170°F (75°C) oven while you cook the second. With this method, your sprouts should be perfectly cooked and crispy after about 15 minutes in an air fryer heated to 390°F.

Remember to preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. For example, if you're preheating to 375°F, this may take around three minutes. By following these steps and adjusting the cooking time and temperature to your liking, you'll be able to achieve delicious, evenly cooked Brussels sprouts in your air fryer.

How to tell when sprouts are cooked

Brussels sprouts should be cooked in the air fryer for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the temperature and the size of your air fryer. The sprouts are done when they are browned and tender. You should shake the basket halfway through to ensure they are evenly cooked.

If you are cooking at 375°F (190°C), they will take 10 to 12 minutes. If you are cooking at 400°F, they will take 12 to 14 minutes, followed by a second air fry at the same temperature for 8 to 10 minutes. If you are cooking at 390°F, they will take about 15 minutes.

You can also make sure the sprouts are done by checking their colour. If you like them dark and crispy, you may want to cook them for longer. If you prefer them lighter, you may want to take them out sooner.

How to store cooked sprouts

To cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, preheat the fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You can also cook them at 400°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, and then air fry for a second time at the same temperature for 8-10 minutes.

To store cooked sprouts, it's important to note that raw sprouts are more susceptible to contamination than cooked sprouts. This is because they are often grown in warm, moist conditions that can promote the growth of harmful bacteria. If you're concerned about the safety of your sprouts, consider cooking them before eating. Assuming you're dealing with fresh, raw sprouts, the best way to store them is to keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent moisture from building up, which can cause the sprouts to spoil quickly. It's also a good idea to rinse the sprouts thoroughly before storing them to remove any dirt or debris.

If you have excess sprouts that you won't be able to consume within a few days, you can freeze them to extend their shelf life. To freeze sprouts, first blanch them by placing them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transferring them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Rinse them in cold water and pat them dry. Place the sprouts in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag and label with the date. Frozen sprouts can last for up to three months in the freezer.

To store fresh sprouts, first, remove any excess moisture by gently patting them dry with a paper towel. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a plastic bag with a few holes poked in it to allow for air circulation. Store the container or bag in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator at a temperature between 34 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to note that sprouts have a relatively short shelf life and should be consumed within a few days of purchase. Therefore, it's best to only purchase the amount of sprouts you plan to use within a few days.

Frequently asked questions