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Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts: Crispy, Easy & Flavor Packed

Brussel sprouts used to be the vegetable everyone avoided—myself included—until I discovered air fryer brussel sprouts. Imagine these mini cabbages turning golden-crisp, caramelized, and addictively delicious in under 15 minutes. It’s like magic, but better because you get to eat the results. Ready for a veggie glow-up?

Why this recipe is awesome

Look, you want to eat more greens, but broccoli might not cut it. Enter air fryer brussel sprouts—they taste like a trendy side dish, not punishment. They crisp up like fries, get that char flavor, and become the star of your plate. Plus, they’re fast, low-effort, and even your sprout-hating friend will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional add-ins: garlic powder, smoked paprika, parmesan, balsamic glaze

Key substitutions:

  • Use coconut oil for a different flavor
  • Replace olive with flavored oil (truffle, chili-infused)

Tools & kitchen gadgets used

  • Air fryer (affiliate link here!)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Serving platter

Step‑by‑step instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  2. Toss sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper—massage for coverage.
  3. Add garlic powder or smoked paprika if you’re vibing.
  4. Spread sprouts in basket single layer—no overcrowding!
  5. Cook 12 minutes: shake or flip at 6.
  6. Check for deep golden char and crispy edges.
  7. Optional: sprinkle parmesan or drizzle balsamic glaze immediately.
  8. Serve hot and watch them vanish.

Calories & Nutritional Info

  • Calories (per ½ lb): ~200 kcal
  • Protein: ~6 g
  • Fiber: ~8 g
  • Fat: ~14 g (mostly healthy fats)
  • Note: Skip oil or use spray to reduce fat/calories

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Crowding basket – hurts crisp.
  • Skipping preheat – sprout sog isn’t cute.
  • Skipping halfway shake – uneven char = meh.
  • Adding cheese too early – melts into mush.

Variations & Customizations

  1. Keto-friendly: toss in parmesan and chili flakes.
  2. Sweet & tangy: drizzle with honey-balsamic after cooking.
  3. Spicy Sriracha: add sriracha + lime zest post-fry.
  4. Italian twist: oregano + garlic + vegan parm.
  5. Asian flavor: sesame oil, soy sauce, sesame seeds.

FAQ Section

1. How long to air fry brussel sprouts?
12–15 minutes at 375°F, flip halfway.

2. Can I use frozen sprouts?
Yep, but add 2–3 mins and pat dry first for crisp.

3. Do I need to preheat?
Absolutely—crispy texture depends on hot start.

4. How do I keep them crispy?
Serve immediately and avoid lids—they steam.

5. Can I use olive oil spray?
Yes, but toss for seasoning to stick.

6. What if I miss the flip?
Shake basket around minute 6 for even cooking.

7. Are they healthy?
Very—high fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Final Thoughts

You just transformed boring sprouts into air fryer brussel sprouts that taste like a gourmet party on your plate. Crisp, flavorful, guilt-free—what more could you want? Share your flavor spin, tag me, or quietly savor them all yourself. Just don’t come begging for store-bought fries next time!

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