These air-fryer Brussels sprouts are so unbelievably crispy and well seasoned that you’d swear they were deep-fried. This preparation is so much better, though. Fried foods can leave us feeling oily and heavy, but Brussels sprouts are light and crisp. They’re a healthy alternative that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor.
We have a lot of favorite Brussels sprouts recipes, but this is, hands down, our favorite Brussels sprouts air-fryer recipe. They taste delicious, with every bite infused with garlicky goodness. And they’re gorgeous, too. Rosemary-studded panko bread crumbs dot the browned, caramelized edges.
Air-fryer Brussels sprouts are elegant enough to serve as an appetizer or side dish for a holiday meal and simple enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients for Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels sprouts: We prefer the texture of fresh Brussels sprouts in this dish, but you can air-fry frozen Brussels sprouts. If you use frozen, just be sure to give them a little extra space in the air fryer basket so the excess moisture can evaporate.
- Panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style bread crumbs are ground into coarser flakes than traditional bread crumbs. We love panko in this recipe for how it stays crisp as it cooks in the air fryer.
- Rosemary: Fresh herbs really take these Brussels sprouts to the next level. We love rosemary’s piney character, but oregano or thyme would work just as well. You can also use tender herbs like basil or parsley, but we recommend adding them after the sprouts finish cooking.
- Olive oil: Many air-fryer recipes use cooking spray, but we recommend using the real deal (i.e., olive oil) here. Combining the olive oil with minced garlic, salt and pepper creates a flavorful mixture that permeates the garlic flavor into the sprouts.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the oil mixture
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
Step 2: Cook the Brussels sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of the oil mixture. Place the Brussels sprouts on the tray in the air fryer basket. Cook until the sprouts are browned and to your desired doneness, 12 to 13 minutes, stirring the mixture every four to five minutes.
Editor’s Tip: There is such a thing as too crispy! Stirring the sprouts or shaking the basket prevents the outsides from over-caramelizing before the insides become tender.
Step 3: Give the Brussels sprouts a crunchy finish
In a large bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with minced fresh rosemary and the remaining oil mixture. Sprinkle over the Brussels sprouts. Continue cooking until the crumbs are browned and the sprouts are tender, three to five minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Make it meaty: This Brussels sprouts air-fryer recipe is vegan and vegetarian, but you could add crumbled bacon to the mix when serving omnivores. Or, add cubed ham as we do in our air-fryer honey Brussels sprouts with ham recipe.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top of the cooked Brussels sprouts to give them a savory finish. Soft cheese crumbles, such as feta or blue cheese, also work well.
- Finish with sweetness: Drizzle the cooked Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze, maple syrup or honey. To give them a sweet-and-spicy vibe (aka “swicy“), use hot honey or add red chili flakes to the oil mixture.
How to Store Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Store Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat the leftovers in a 350° air fryer for four to five minutes or until heated through.
Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts Tips
Why did my Brussels sprouts burn in the air fryer?
It’s important to stir the Brussels sprouts to prevent burning. Stirring the sprouts (or shaking the basket) every four to five minutes will promote even heating by redistributing the vegetables inside the air fryer.
How long does it take to cook Brussels sprouts in the air fryer?
Our air-fryer Brussels sprouts get a total of 15 to 18 minutes in the air fryer, stirring every so often to promote even browning. That said, our Test Kitchen found that cook times vary dramatically among different brands of air fryers. As a result, we give a wider-than-normal range for suggested cook times in our air-fryer recipes. Begin checking at the first time listed and adjust as needed. For more tips on air-frying, check out our air-fryer cooking guide.
Are you supposed to peel Brussels sprouts?
You do not need to peel Brussels sprouts. However, we recommend peeling away any wilted or dirty outer leaves.
Which air fryer has the best ratings?
Our Test Kitchen pros sought to find the best air fryer, considering each one’s features, ease of use, and performance. Many models are available today, so choose the one that best suits your specific needs.
