Air-Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

If you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook Brussels sprouts, look no further than your air fryer. This handy appliance will give you crispy and tender sprouts in less than 30 minutes. The key to getting that perfect crispness is to ensure your sprouts are dry before placing them in the air fryer, and to shake the basket a few times during cooking to redistribute the sprouts and promote even cooking. You can also get creative with your seasonings – while garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic options, you can also experiment with balsamic vinegar, honey, Parmesan cheese, or even a drizzle of shallot butter for a restaurant-style glaze. So, if you're looking for a new way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, give your air fryer a try!

Choosing and preparing your brussel sprouts

Choosing the right Brussels sprouts is key to making delicious smashed Brussels sprouts in an air fryer. When selecting your Brussels sprouts, look for those that are fresh, firm, and have bright green compact leaves. Avoid any that appear wilted, yellowed, or have loose leaves, as these may be past their prime. Try to choose Brussels sprouts that are similar in size, as this will help ensure even cooking.

Once you've selected your Brussels sprouts, you'll need to prepare them for cooking. Start by rinsing them under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and remove any loose or discoloured outer leaves. If you prefer your sprouts on the softer side, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes. However, if you like them with a firmer texture, you can skip this step.

After rinsing and trimming, cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. This will help them fit better in the air fryer basket and increase the surface area for crisping. Place the halved sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil. You can also add other seasonings like salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the bowl and toss to coat the sprouts evenly.

Now your Brussels sprouts are ready for the air fryer! Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure they cook evenly. Spread the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at around 375-400°F for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to prevent them from burning and to promote even cooking.

With these tips, you'll be well on your way to choosing and preparing perfect Brussels sprouts for your smashed Brussels sprouts recipe!

Seasoning your sprouts

• Keep it simple: Sometimes, simple seasonings are the best. Salt and pepper are classic choices that can enhance the natural flavour of Brussels sprouts without overwhelming them.
• Get creative: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings. You can add garlic powder, as suggested in some recipes, or try other options like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an herby aroma.
• Balancing act: When seasoning your sprouts, it's important to find the right balance. You don't want to overseason and mask the natural flavour of the sprouts, but you also don't want them to be bland. Start with a small amount of seasoning and taste as you go, adding more as needed.
• Personal preference: Everyone's taste preferences are unique, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you're a fan of garlic, add some freshly minced garlic or garlic powder to the mix. If you're looking for a cheesy touch, sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese during or after cooking.
• Sweet and salty: Brussels sprouts pair well with both sweet and salty flavours. You can add a touch of sweetness with honey or maple syrup, while a sprinkle of kosher salt or your favourite salty cheese can satisfy your salty cravings.
• Oil options: The type of oil you use can also impact the flavour of your sprouts. Olive oil is a popular choice, but you can also experiment with avocado oil or neutral-flavoured oils to find the one that best suits your taste.

Cooking your sprouts in the air fryer

Now that you've gathered and prepared all your ingredients, it's time to cook your sprouts in the air fryer. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375-400°F. Note that not all air fryers require preheating, but it's recommended for the crispiest Brussels sprouts.
• Prepare the sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut any larger ones in half. This helps speed up the cooking process and ensures even cooking.
• Season the sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, avocado oil, or another neutral-flavoured oil. Then, season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, or minced garlic. You can also add other seasonings like balsamic vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese, according to your taste.
• Arrange the sprouts in the air fryer: Place the seasoned sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This arrangement allows maximum exposure to the hot, circulating air, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
• Air fry: Cook the sprouts at 375-400°F for 10-15 minutes. Shake or toss the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even crispness. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your sprouts, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Optional glaze: For an extra flavour boost, you can finish your sprouts with a buttery glaze, such as a shallot butter drizzle or a balsamic glaze.
• Serve: Once the sprouts are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy the tender insides and crispy outsides of your air-fried Brussels sprouts!

By following these steps, you'll be able to cook delicious and crispy Brussels sprouts in your air fryer. Enjoy this healthy and tasty side dish with your favourite meals!

Adding toppings to your sprouts

Balsamic Glaze

For a classic take on brussel sprouts, toss them in a balsamic glaze. You can also add bacon to the mix for an extra savoury touch.

Hot Honey

If you're a fan of spice, drizzle your sprouts with honey and sprinkle on some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Maple Mustard

Try stirring in some maple syrup and Dijon mustard to your sprouts for a sweet and tangy flavour. For an extra crunch, add some chopped pistachios or walnuts.

Parmesan Garlic

Sprinkle on some minced garlic and shredded parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. You can also substitute the parmesan for nutritional yeast to make it dairy-free.

Feta

For a salty, tangy twist, toss your sprouts with some feta cheese.

Bacon Crumbles

Add some crispy bacon crumbles to your sprouts for an extra savoury, crunchy bite.

Storing and reheating your sprouts

Smashed brussels sprouts are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the air fryer. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator.

Brussels sprouts are highly perishable, so it is best to eat them within a few days. When stored correctly, they can last up to four days in the fridge.

To reheat your sprouts, place them on a baking sheet or directly in the air fryer. Reheat at 350°F (180°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, or until they reach your desired temperature. Flip them halfway through to ensure even heating.

If you want to freeze your sprouts, it is best to do so in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months. However, freezing may affect their texture, making them mushy once thawed. To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently asked questions