Discover the Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Delight
If you’re on the lookout for a healthy air fryer recipe that transforms a humble vegetable into a crave-worthy side, look no further than this air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe. Brussels sprouts have long suffered the reputation of being bitter or mushy when cooked improperly. But when prepared the right way—crispy, garlicky, and sprinkled generously with Parmesan—they become nothing short of addictive.
This crispy Brussels sprouts recipe is an easy vegetable side dish that complements a variety of meals—from succulent roasted chicken to grilled steak or even a plant-based entrée. The magic lies in the air fryer, which gives the sprouts perfectly crisp edges while locking in all the natural flavor without drowning them in oil. Plus, with minimal prep and a total cook time of just 20 minutes, this dish is an easy weeknight winner that anyone can master.
Ready to learn how to make the best garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts with your air fryer? Let’s dive straight into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or balsamic glaze for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Wash, trim, and halve the Brussels sprouts to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with seasoning: In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange in the air fryer basket: Lay the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer for maximum crispiness. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
- Cook for 15 minutes: Air fry at 375°F, shaking the basket halfway through to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
- Add Parmesan: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the Parmesan over the Brussels sprouts, then air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic glaze if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts!
Cooking Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Choose fresh sprouts: Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and cook more evenly. Avoid yellowed or wilted leaves.
- Halve the sprouts uniformly: This ensures each piece cooks at the same rate, avoiding burnt edges or under-cooked centers.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space for air to circulate, which is essential for that crispy texture.
- Use high smoke point oil: Olive oil works great, but avocado or grapeseed oil are other healthy alternatives.
- Shake halfway through: Giving the basket a good shake or tossing the sprouts helps them cook evenly and crisp up on all sides.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Servings: 4
- Calories: ~140 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 9g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil and Parmesan)
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg (can adjust based on salt amount)
Recipe Variations to Try
- Spicy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne powder before air frying.
- Bacon and Parmesan: Toss in 2 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon after cooking for extra smoky flavor.
- Herb-infused: Mix in finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal note.
- Vegan option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Lemon zest upgrade: Add zest from one lemon to brighten the dish further.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To re-crisp, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes rather than the microwave.
Serving: These crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts make an excellent side for grilled meats, alongside roasted potatoes, or as a part of a vibrant vegetarian meal. They also work well tossed into pasta or grain bowls for an added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
- While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best crispy results, you can use frozen. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before air frying to reduce excess moisture.
- How do I avoid bitter Brussels sprouts?
- Removing the outer yellow or damaged leaves, halving the sprouts evenly, and not overcooking them helps keep bitterness in check. The garlic and Parmesan also balance flavors perfectly.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer?
- You can roast them in a conventional oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway, but the texture might be slightly different—still delicious though!
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes! Make sure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free (most are), and avoid any seasonings or add-ons with gluten.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Definitely! Cook the sprouts ahead, store in an airtight container, and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Wrapping Up Your Next Favorite Easy Vegetable Side Dish
This air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is a game changer for Brussels sprout skeptics and fans alike. With its perfect balance of crispiness, garlic punch, and cheesy parmesan goodness, it elevates a simple vegetable into a star side dish that’s also quick, healthy, and versatile. Whether you’re searching for an easy weeknight side or want to impress guests, these crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts will deliver every time.
So preheat your air fryer, grab those Brussels sprouts, and enjoy one of the best healthy air fryer recipes you’ll make this year!