When you catch yourself throwing back healthy vegetables with the loss of self-control usually reserved for potato chips, you know you’ve found a keeper. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, you are pure, unbridled, crispy addiction!
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I shied away from the air fryer for the first year of its popularity, because I generally loathe to add appliances we don’t need, and I wasn’t convinced I “needed” an air fryer.
Had someone fed me these air fryer Brussels sprouts, I would have jumped on the bandwagon IMMEDIATELY!
(This is the air fryer we ultimately ended up buying and have been pleased with so far.)
Air fryer Brussels sprouts are F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L-L-Y crispy. Beyond crisp!
Another reason I was skeptical of the air fryer is that I’ve had excellent luck making super crispy Brussels sprouts in a regular oven—these Roasted Brussels Sprouts, for example, are wonderful—so I wasn’t convinced the air fryer could do them much better.
I was pleasantly surprised!
In fact, some test batches of air fryer Brussels sprouts crisped so quickly, it took some tweaking (and a special trick) to make sure the centers had a chance to become tender before the outsides burned.
Air Fryer Advantages
An air fryer is essentially a compact countertop convection oven.
- An air fryer cooks food by blowing hot air down and around it, making the foods you air fry crispy in a short amount of time (thank you, Air Fryer Broccoli).
- Air fryers are a delight for making healthy versions of foods that are usually deep-fried, like these Air Fryer French Fries and Air Fryer Tofu.
- If you use a convection oven at home, you might not notice *as* much of a difference with air fryer vegetables versus roasted vegetables, since they work in similar ways.
- An advantage of the air fryer over a convection oven is that it preheats very quickly—in 3 minutes for my model (perfect when I need an Air Fryer Grilled Cheese pronto).
- Between my high-powered convection oven and the air fryer, I found the air fryer does a slightly better job of making food crisp. It even made perfectly tender Air Fryer Pork Chops!
If you’ve been skeptical of Brussels sprouts in the past—even if you’ve gone so far as to resist Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts—the air fryer could be the catalyst that converts you.
Like these Brussels Sprouts Chips, they are brilliantly crispy and addictively salty.
Secrets to Crispy Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer
The downfall of many Brussels sprouts recipes is poor texture.
Bad boiled Brussels sprouts have caused many a food trauma. In fact, if you are convinced you don’t like them, my bet is that you were served them this way first.
Even in the oven, Brussels sprouts can turn out soggy. This happens if the pan is too crowded or the heat in the oven isn’t high enough.
This air fryer recipe avoids both pitfalls and ensures your sprouts come out alluringly crisp (not at ALL soggy!) every single time.
- A cooking temperature of 375 degrees F is perfect for air frying Brussels sprouts without burning them.
- Shaking the basket several times throughout will keep the air circulating so that your Brussels sprouts crisp evenly.
Is there such a thing as too crispy?
The biggest challenge I ran into when testing this recipe was making sure the Brussels sprouts had enough time to become tender in the middle before the outsides were charred to the point of being inedible.
While I personally like my Brussels sprouts al dente all the way through, I know that some prefer them softer in the centers. If you are one of the tender hearts, here’s my trick:
- For Brussels sprouts that are crispy outside and more tender inside, soak the Brussels sprouts in water for 10 minutes prior to air frying them.
The soak time tenderizes the sprouts so the middles are softer. Don’t worry, they won’t be soggy! I would never do that to you.
If, like me, you don’t mind some chew to your sprouts, you don’t need to soak the Brussels sprouts prior to cooking.
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
To give the Brussels sprouts flair, I took inspiration from my Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic and added some garlic cloves to the mix.
The garlic gets very dark and crispy, which we adore. Feel free to use the garlic, skip it, or try one of the other variations below.
The Ingredients
- Brussels Sprouts. The green veggie nightmare of many childhoods has reinvented itself as a craveable side dish. These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts are not only easy and flavorful, but they’re healthy too. Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil. Helps the Brussels sprouts become crispy and delicious. Since this is an air fryer recipe, you do not need as much oil as you do in the oven.
- Salt + Pepper. Sometimes the simplest seasonings are the best.
- Garlic. While optional, fresh garlic is a scrumptious addition.
The Directions
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
- (Optional) Soak the sprouts in water for 10 minutes if you’d like them a little softer in the center.
- Drain and dry the sprouts. Toss them with oil and spices, then add them to the air fryer.
- Cook for 5 minutes at 375 degrees F, then toss. Cook another 5 minutes, then toss again. Add the garlic (if using), and cook for 2 to 4 more minutes.
- Add any desired toppings, and ENJOY!
Recipe Variations
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic. Transfer your cooked Brussels sprouts to a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. (Don’t miss this delicious Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe!)
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Prepare this Oven Baked Bacon or Air Fryer Bacon, then crumble it over the top of the finished sprouts. (If you love bacon with your Brussels sprouts, be sure to check out these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.)
- Air Fryer Frozen Brussels Sprouts. If using frozen Brussels sprouts, make sure to leave plenty of space between the sprouts in the air fryer basket. You may also need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. (For an easy oven method, see my Roasted Frozen Brussels Sprouts.)
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Parmesan. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your finished sprouts.
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta. Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts with a handful of feta cheese.
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey. For a sweet finish, drizzle 2 teaspoons of honey over the cooked sprouts. For a sweet/spicy variation, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Storage Tips
- To Store. Refrigerate Brussels sprouts in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
- To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers on a baking sheet in the oven or in the air fryer at 350 degrees F.
- To Freeze. The Brussels sprouts will get mushy once thawed, so I don’t recommend freezing them. If you have lots leftover, you can freeze them in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What to Serve with Brussels Sprouts
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
- Air Fryer. The air fryer I own and love.
- Mixing Bowls. These mixing bowls are ideal for prepping the sprouts.
- Measuring Spoons. Easy-to-use magnetic measuring spoons.
Never thought you’d use the words “addictive” and “Brussels sprouts” in the same breath? Involve the air fryer, and you’ll catch yourself saying them together again and again.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
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Ingredients
FOR THE BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced (optional but delish!)
OPTIONAL TOPPINGS:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
- Drizzle pomegranate molasses
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Trim off the ends of the Brussel sprouts and remove any brown outer leaves. Cut them in half from stem to end. If any are very large, cut them into quarters from stem to end so that all the pieces are fairly similar in size and cook evenly.
- OPTIONAL—This step makes sure the Brussels sprouts a little more tender in the middle; that said, if you don't mind a firmer sprout, you can skip it—I like my Brussels sprouts firm/tender inside and crispy outside, so I typically skip it—Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and cover with warm tap water. Let sit 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees, according to the manufacturer's instructions (for my air fryer, that's 3 minutes of preheating).
- Drain the Brussels sprouts and with a towel, lightly pat dry. Wipe out the bowl you used for soaking, then add the Brussels sprouts back to it (if you didn't soak the sprouts, simply place them in a large mixing bowl). Drizzle with the oil and sprinkle with the salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly, then add them to your fryer basket.
- Cook the sprouts for 5 minutes, then slide out the basket and shake it to toss the Brussels sprouts to promote even cooking. Cook 5 additional minutes, then slide out the basket again. The Brussels sprouts should look like they are getting nice and crispy and are almost done (if not, let them cook a minute or so longer). Add the garlic cloves and toss to coat once more. Cook 2 to 4 additional minutes, checking and shaking the basket often, until the Brussels sprouts are deeply crisp.
- If adding toppings, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl (or wipe out the mixing bowl you previously used) and stir in any desired toppings. Enjoy hot.
Video
Notes
- TO STORE: Refrigerate Brussels sprouts in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
- TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F.
- TO FREEZE: The Brussels sprouts will get mushy once thawed, so I don’t recommend freezing them. If you have lots leftover, you can freeze them in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition
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We just got a new airfryer and thought we’d try to cook Brussel sprouts. I found your recipe, very easy to follow and lots of options. I didn’t soak in water, but I coated them in oil, added seasoning and instead of garlic cloves I used garlic powder. Because of the different sizes of the sprouts, I kept watch that the smaller ones didn’t burn and kept shaking the basket. I did add the Parm at the end and they were perfect!!
Ppl need to keep in mind that depending on your airfryer, the wattage can be diff, just like a microwave and you should still watch your food as its cooking!
Anyway we will be repeating this recipe…thanks for the diff options. Very versatile! Cheers!
Thanks for the review Dee!
Exciting recipes, thank you. Please consider those whose air fryers measure temperatures in degrees C only and add the equivalent in the method detail. Thank you
We have a new air fryer and were having a big dinner and wanted a different veggie dish. We tried this one and it was delish!C
Whoo hoo, so glad to hear it!
Omg first time I’ve ever made actual crispy Brussel sprouts! I can’t seem to make them crispy all the way in the oven but this was perfect!
I made this as a side dish for dinner for a friend (who I think can be a picky eater; she def doesn’t care for veggies though) and she actually told me I made her like Brussel sprouts so this was a hit! Thank you!
YAY, thanks so much for sharing!
These were great! I usually use frozen Brussel Sprouts, and while they taste great and have little to no prep work, they don’t end up crispy like these did. I’ll definitely try them again; especially if I can find some Sprouts which are in better shape than the ones I used today.
Thanks so much for sharing Robert!
This is one of two Well Plated recipes I made for Christmas and it was another big hit! They came out perfect!
Awesome, thanks Kayla!!
Nicely brown. I used the soaking method you provided. The sprouts were still al dente. I added one cup of water, to steam until desired tenderness. I appreciate the helpful video, tips and all the notes. I mostly appreciate not providing your “life story”, just to enjoy a recipe. To the point, no fuss, dinner on the table. 😄
Glad you enjoyed them Florence.
This was such a simple and amazing recipe. I thoroughly enjoyed it as well as my husband.
Thank you Missy!
We tried this tonight. I like them softer in the middle so I soaked them. Cooked as instructed and added 2 minutes to the end. Once done drizzled Milanese Gremolata olive oil and rosemary garlic agrodolce over it. It gives it a slight lemon flavor. It was delicious and everyone went back for 2nds.
Glad to hear you enjoyed it, MaryKaye!
This recipe would be much better if you put water in the bottom off the air fryer to add a steam component.
We definitely like this method, but you could give it a try!
Agree. Mine were too hard. Added water, much better.
I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with the recipe, Li. The timing has worked well for myself (and others) so I wished it would have been a hit for you too! I know it can be so disappointing to try a new recipe and it does not turn out for you.
Instead of olive oil, I tossed the sprouts with the grease left from frying the bacon! The soaking was a game changer :)
So glad you enjoyed them, Karen!
I did something similar! I made a tri tip in the air fryer then immediately cooked the Brussels (still tossed in olive oil and seasonings). When I tossed the basket unnoticed a bit of the drippings coated the sprouts. After cooking they were basically infused in steak flavor haha
mine took three five minute bouts before the 2-4 minutes one, but it worked!
Thanks for letting me know!
This is absolutely SIMPLE DELICIOUSNESS!! I bought my brussel sprouts on a discount, clearance shelf and, since I hadn’t cooked from fresh before, I had serious doubts and concerns. THRILLED with the EASY, YUMMY RESULTS!
So glad to hear you enjoyed it, Mel!
This is the first recipe I’ve tried on this website and it came out great! These were the best brussels sprouts I’ve ever made! I’m looking forward to trying other recipes.
Makes me so happy to hear, thank you Margaret!
You have become my “Go to” for air fryer recipes. My meats and fish are always delicious and moist inside. I always refer your site to my family and friends. Thank you!!!!
Makes me so happy to hear, thank you Barbara!
I’m glad I tried it!
Me too Dar!
Soaked Brussels sprouts for 10 minutes and cooked 11 minutes and they were perfect.
Great to hear! Thank you Diane!
Maybe your air fryer is amazing but this doesn’t work at all.
I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with the recipe, Jelena. The amounts, flavorings and timing have worked well for myself (and others) so I wished it would have been a hit for you too! What specifically didn’t work, so that we can help troubleshoot the recipe for you?
I just made this and oh my gosh it was delish!!!! I soaked them like you recommended which made such a big difference! Every other time I tried to make them, they would be too hard inside, but with your recipe, they were soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside. I seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, creole seasoning, and a pinch of sugar for sweetness. It was so good that I had to make a second batch! Thank you for sharing!
So glad to hear you enjoyed it, Ashley! Thank you!