Oh, Brussels sprouts! They’ve had such a bad rap over the years, haven’t they? But trust me, when cooked right, like in this easy air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe, they can be absolutely delicious! The air fryer is a game changer for these little green gems. It makes them crispy on the outside while keeping that tender, flavorful goodness inside. Plus, it’s a quick and healthy way to whip up a side dish without all the fuss. Just imagine the warm, nutty aroma filling your kitchen as they cook! Seriously, you’ll want to make these all the time. So, let’s dive into how to make the best air fryer Brussels sprouts you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Easy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps those Brussels sprouts get that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender and flavorful. Just a few minutes of preheating while you prep those sprouts makes a world of difference!
Season the Brussels Sprouts
Now, let’s get to the fun part—seasoning! In a large bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each sprout is well-coated; this is where you can really amp up the flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste—maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of your favorite spice? Go wild!
Cook the Brussels Sprouts
Once your Brussels sprouts are nicely seasoned, it’s time to cook! Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer—don’t overcrowd them, or they won’t crisp up properly. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them towards the end; you want them golden brown and fork-tender. The smell will be irresistible, and once they’re done, serve them hot for a delightful side dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy side dish that comes together in just 28 minutes!
- Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients and are a great source of fiber.
- The air fryer gives them a delightful crispy texture without the need for deep frying.
- You can customize the seasoning to suit your taste—add more garlic or even a splash of balsamic vinegar!
- They pair perfectly with almost any main dish, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
- Healthy and delicious, they’re a great guilt-free option for any dinner table.
- Cleanup is a breeze—just toss the basket in the dishwasher!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make these easy air fryer Brussels sprouts, here are some pro tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time!
- Don’t skip the preheating: Preheating your air fryer is key to getting that crispy texture. Just a few minutes can make all the difference!
- Evenly cut sprouts: Make sure your Brussels sprouts are all about the same size when you trim and halve them. This way, they cook evenly and you won’t end up with some pieces overcooked and others undercooked.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to get creative with your spices! Try adding some paprika for a smoky flavor or a splash of soy sauce for an umami kick. It’s all about what you love!
- Shake it up: Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking! This helps them brown evenly and prevents any sticking.
- Check for doneness: Everyone has different preferences for how tender they like their Brussels sprouts. Start checking around the 15-minute mark. You want them golden brown and fork-tender but still holding their shape!
- Finish with a drizzle: A little drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before serving elevates the flavor even more. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to easy air fryer Brussels sprouts, you can indulge without guilt! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These numbers are just estimates, but they show how tasty and healthy Brussels sprouts can be! Packed with fiber and nutrients, they’re a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy guilt-free goodness with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are best for that crispy texture, you can use frozen ones if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that they may release more moisture, so you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly!
How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are done?
The best way to check is to look for a golden brown color and to poke them with a fork. They should be tender inside but still hold their shape. Start checking around the 15-minute mark for perfect timing!
Can I make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
For the freshest taste and texture, I recommend making them just before serving. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge and reheat them in the air fryer to regain some of that crispiness!
What can I add to my Brussels sprouts for extra flavor?
Oh, so many options! You can toss in some diced bacon or pancetta before cooking for a savory kick, or drizzle them with balsamic glaze right before serving for a sweet finish. Get creative!
Are easy air fryer Brussels sprouts kid-friendly?
Absolutely! These Brussels sprouts are crispy and flavorful, making them a great side dish for kids. You can even let them help with the seasoning to make it more fun for them. Trust me, they might surprise you by loving them!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover easy air fryer Brussels sprouts? No problem! To store them, simply let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly to maintain their flavor and texture!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is a breeze! The best way to bring back their crispy goodness is to pop them back in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This way, they’ll regain that delightful crunch without getting soggy. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can reheat them in a regular oven at the same temperature, just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
And if you find yourself with a big batch that you won’t finish in a few days, you can freeze them! Just spread the cooled Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together. They’ll last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat from frozen in the air fryer, and you’ll have a quick, tasty side dish ready to go!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your easy air fryer Brussels sprouts ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with! These little beauties are super versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the crispy Brussels sprouts. A squeeze of lemon over both adds a bright touch!
- Salmon: Whether it’s pan-seared or baked, salmon’s rich flavor works perfectly with the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts. Plus, it makes for a beautiful plate!
- Pasta Primavera: Toss your Brussels sprouts into a colorful pasta dish loaded with seasonal veggies for a hearty meal that feels fresh and light.
- Quinoa Salad: Mix them into a quinoa salad with cranberries, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s nutritious and absolutely delicious!
- Steak: A juicy steak with a side of these Brussels sprouts creates a classic and satisfying dinner. The richness of the steak balances the sprouts perfectly.
- Stuffed Peppers: Serve them alongside stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices for a colorful, plant-based meal that’s sure to impress.
- Omelet: These Brussels sprouts make a fantastic addition to your breakfast! Toss them into an omelet or frittata for a nutty, satisfying start to your day.
No matter what you choose, these easy air fryer Brussels sprouts will always bring a delightful crunch and flavor to your table. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite dishes!
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Easy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: 7 Reasons You’ll Love Them
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Easy air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe for a quick and healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for desired tenderness and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Try adding balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy air fryer brussels sprouts
