Crispy Garlic Air-Fryer Sprouts
Achieve perfectly crispy, tender, and flavorful Brussels sprouts in your air fryer with minimal oil, making them an irresistible side dish or snack in under 15 minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the tough ends off each sprout and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise. For larger sprouts, you can quarter them to ensure even cooking.
Dry the sprouts thoroughly: After washing, pat the sprouts very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Excess moisture will steam the sprouts instead of crisping them.
Season the sprouts: In a medium bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure all sprouts are evenly coated.
Preheat your air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for at least 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve a crispier result faster.
Arrange in air fryer: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness.
Air fry: Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket vigorously halfway through (around the 6-7 minute mark) to promote even browning and crisping.
Check for doneness: The sprouts are done when they are tender on the inside, deeply golden brown, and crispy on the outside. Some edges should be nicely charred.
Serve immediately: Transfer the crispy garlic air-fryer sprouts to a serving dish and serve hot. Enjoy as a delicious side dish or a healthy snack.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd: For maximum crispiness, cook Brussels sprouts in a single layer. If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches.
- 2Dry Sprouts are Key: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry after washing. Moisture creates steam, preventing them from getting crispy.
- 3Shake Often: Shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes ensures all sides of the sprouts get exposed to the hot air, leading to even browning and crisping.
- 4Size Matters: Try to cut your sprouts into similar-sized pieces (halves or quarters) so they cook evenly at the same rate.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings for a touch of heat.
Parmesan GarlicParmesan Garlic
Toss with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, or immediately after removing from the air fryer, for a cheesy, savory crust.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey along with the olive oil before cooking for a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins K and C, providing essential nutrients for bone health and immune function.
High in Fiber
Their high fiber content aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
These cruciferous vegetables contain powerful antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh is best for crispiness, you can use frozen. Thaw them completely, then pat them extremely dry before seasoning and air frying. They might take a few minutes longer to cook and may not get quite as crispy.
