Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts: The Ultimate Guide

Air fryers are a great way to cook Brussels sprouts, resulting in a crispy and crunchy texture. The high-temperature air in the fryer ensures the insides are tender while the outsides crisp to perfection. The cooking time is also cut in half compared to other cooking methods.

To make the best Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, it is recommended to trim the ends, cut them in half, and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or fresh garlic. The cooking temperature should be around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and the sprouts should be cooked for 10-15 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispness. It is important to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking.

There are also several ways to dress up Brussels sprouts, such as adding a balsamic glaze, hot honey, or a maple mustard dressing. You can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese or garlic on top during the last few minutes of cooking.

How to prepare your brussel sprouts for the air fryer

Preparing your Brussels sprouts for the air fryer is simple and will ensure you get the best results. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, you will want to trim the ends off your Brussels sprouts and remove any brown or wilted outer leaves. This will ensure they are fresh and ready for cooking.

Next, cut your Brussels sprouts into halves or quarters, depending on their size. You want to ensure they are all roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Cutting them also increases the surface area, which will help them get crispy. Place the trimmed and cut sprouts into a large bowl and cover with water. This step is optional but will help to tenderise the sprouts, making them softer in the middle. Leave them to soak for around 10 minutes.

After soaking, drain the sprouts and pat them dry with a towel. Return them to the bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat the sprouts evenly. You can also add other seasonings at this point, such as garlic powder, for extra flavour.

Now your Brussels sprouts are ready for the air fryer! Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they have space around them for the hot air to circulate. Don't overcrowd the basket, as this can make them soggy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

The ideal temperature to air fry brussel sprouts

Why this temperature range is ideal

• This temperature range allows the Brussel sprouts to cook evenly, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
• Cooking at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, ensures even browning and prevents burning.
• At 400°F, the Brussel sprouts take slightly less time, around 12-14 minutes, to achieve a similar level of doneness.
• A higher temperature of 400°F also helps to achieve a darker and crispier exterior, which some people prefer.

Tips for achieving the best results

• Use Brussel sprouts of similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Spread the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket to maximize exposure to hot air.
• Preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature to ensure the sprouts start cooking immediately upon placement.
• Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper for flavor and to promote browning.
• For softer centres, soak the sprouts in water for about 10 minutes before cooking.
• For additional flavor, toss the cooked sprouts with balsamic vinegar, honey, or a buttery glaze.

Troubleshooting

• If your Brussel sprouts are crispy on the outside but not tender on the inside, try lowering the temperature or increase the cooking time.
• To prevent burning, keep an eye on the sprouts during cooking, especially if your air fryer tends to run hot.
• If the sprouts are drying out and becoming hard, try blanching or soaking them before air frying.

By following these guidelines, you can achieve the ideal temperature and cooking process for air-fried Brussel sprouts, resulting in a delicious and crispy side dish.

How long to air fry brussel sprouts for

The cooking time for your Brussel sprouts in the air fryer will depend on how crispy you like them and whether you want to add any additional ingredients.

For basic Brussel sprouts, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, cook for around 15 minutes at 375-400°F, shaking the basket halfway through. If you like your sprouts softer in the middle, you can soak them in water for 10 minutes before air frying.

If you want to add some extra ingredients to your sprouts, you will need to adjust the cooking time. For example, if you want to add garlic, cook the sprouts for 10-15 minutes, add the garlic, then cook for another 2-4 minutes. For a balsamic glaze, cook the sprouts for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a bowl and toss with the glaze.

If you are using frozen Brussel sprouts, you will need to increase the cooking time. Cut them into half-moons, toss in olive oil and seasoning, then air fry at 400°F for about 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

How to season brussel sprouts for the air fryer

How to Season Brussels Sprouts for the Air Fryer

Brussels sprouts are a great vegetable to cook in an air fryer. The super-hot circulating air makes their insides tender while the outsides crisp to perfection.

Seasoning Brussels Sprouts for the Air Fryer

When it comes to seasoning your Brussels sprouts for the air fryer, you can keep it simple with just olive oil, salt, and pepper. However, if you want to add more flavour, there are several options to choose from.

Simple Seasoning

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Additional Seasoning Ideas

• Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Honey
• Red pepper flakes
• Bacon
• Feta cheese
• Maple syrup
• Shallot butter
• Lime juice
• Soy sauce

Steps to Season Brussels Sprouts for the Air Fryer

• After trimming the ends off your Brussels sprouts and cutting any large ones in half, place them in a bowl.
• Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your desired seasonings.
• Toss the Brussels sprouts to coat them evenly with the oil and seasonings.
• Add the seasoned sprouts to the air fryer basket and cook as directed.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favourite way to enjoy Brussels sprouts from the air fryer!

How to store leftover air fried brussel sprouts

If you have leftover air-fried Brussels sprouts, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

When you're ready to eat them, you can reheat them in the oven or the air fryer at 350°F.

While you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months, it's not recommended as they will become mushy once thawed.

Frequently asked questions