Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe features boiled sprouts seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and salt, then air-fried for a crispy, tender texture—deliciously healthy and easy to prepare!

Brussels sprouts have often been misunderstood, often relegated to the “not-so-tasty” side of the vegetable spectrum. However, with the right seasoning and cooking method, these little green gems can transform into a crispy, flavor-packed side dish that everyone will love. If you’ve ever been hesitant about trying Brussels sprouts again, this air fryer recipe is here to change your mind.

The secret to making Brussels sprouts irresistibly delicious lies in the preparation. A brief boil before air frying helps soften the sprouts, ensuring they cook evenly in the air fryer. Once that step is complete, a simple seasoning of paprika, garlic powder, and salt, combined with a drizzle of avocado oil, elevates the flavor and ensures the perfect crispy texture. Ready to give them a try? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Video tutorial

Main ingredients

For this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts that are bright green. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
• Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and depth of flavor. You can use smoked paprika for a more intense smoky flavor or sweet paprika for a milder version.
• Garlic Powder: A staple in most seasoning blends, garlic powder brings a savory, umami flavor that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly.
• Salt: Don’t underestimate the power of salt! It enhances all the flavors and brings balance to the dish.
• Avocado Oil: A high-heat oil that ensures your Brussels sprouts crisp up nicely without burning. It also has a neutral taste that lets the seasonings shine. You can also use olive oil.

You can also customize the seasoning to your taste by adding a dash of black pepper, onion powder, balsamic vinegar, or even a little Parmesan cheese after cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

How to make this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe

1. Prep the Brussels Sprouts. Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim off the stems and remove any outer leaves that are yellowed or damaged. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half to ensure they cook evenly. 

2. Boil the Brussels Sprouts. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add salt and drop in the Brussels sprouts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes. Drain the Brussels sprouts and let them cool for a few minutes. 

3 Season the Brussels Sprouts. Transfer the boiled Brussels sprouts to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle the paprika, garlic powder, and salt over the Brussels sprouts. Toss them well to evenly distribute the seasoning.

4. Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crisp on the outside, with a tender interior.

5. Serve and Enjoy. Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can garnish them with additional salt, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, drizzle with balsamic reduction, or even a squeeze of lemon for a fresh kick.

Tips for the best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket. For the crispiest results, make sure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer. If you overcrowd the air fryer, they may steam rather than crisp.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste. Feel free to adjust the amount of paprika, garlic powder, and salt to suit your taste. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat or drizzle with balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.
• Recipe variations. For extra flavor, toss the Brussels sprouts with a handful of chopped bacon or pancetta before air frying, add red pepper flakes for some heat, or sprinkle some toasted almonds on top when serving.

What to serve with

• Meat. The savory, smoky flavor of the Brussels sprouts complements the tender, juicy meat of grilled or roasted chicken. Try pairing them with my Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast, Chicken Tinga, or Easy Chicken Kebabs. 
• Fish. Brussels sprouts and fish, especially rich, oily fish like salmon, make for a light and nutritious pairing. The crispy texture of the sprouts contrasts nicely with the flakiness of the fish. Try my Salmon in Roasted Pepper Sauce, Spinach Stuffed Flounder, or Cajun Salmon.
• Pasta dishes. Brussels sprouts work wonderfully as a side to creamy pasta dishes like Easy Cauliflower Alfredo or Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Sauce. Their crispiness and slight bitterness cut through the richness of creamy sauces.
• Vegetable dishes. Serve them alongside other grilled or sauteed veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for a complete, vibrant vegetable-forward meal. 

How to store and reheat

To store leftovers, allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes, or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

I hope you enjoy this crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe, friends! Not only is this recipe incredibly simple to make, but it’s also a healthier option for anyone craving crispy Brussels sprouts without all the oil and mess of deep frying. Boiling the sprouts first guarantees a tender interior, while the air fryer gives them the perfect crisp exterior that everyone craves.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish to a main course or tossing them into a salad, these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts will definitely steal the show. With their balance of smokiness from the paprika, savory garlic flavor, and crispy texture, they’re sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Give it a try the next time you’re looking for an easy, healthy, and delicious side dish that’s full of flavor and crunch!

More tasty Brussels sprouts recipes to try:

• Pan-Fried Brussels Sprouts
• Steamed Brussels Sprouts
• Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts