These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts come out wonderfully golden, lightly caramelized, and tender in the center. They make a simple, wholesome, and flavorful side dish that works beautifully for weeknight meals or holiday tables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air fryer Brussels sprouts deliver incredible crispiness in a fraction of the time it takes to roast them. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you’ll get a delicious vegetable side that pairs well with countless meals. You also have the option to elevate them with a luscious maple balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory finish. This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and nutrient-rich.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts
1 tablespoon oil (olive oil or avocado oil work well)
1/4 teaspoon (heaped) salt
1/4 teaspoon (heaped) black pepper
1 small head of garlic
Maple balsamic glaze (optional):
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce
Directions
Rinse the Brussels sprouts, remove any brown outer leaves, and trim the stem ends. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise and place them in a medium bowl.
Add the oil, salt, and black pepper, and toss well to coat.
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray and arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer.
Slice the top off the head of garlic, brush lightly with oil, wrap in foil, and place it in the basket.
Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket after 8–10 minutes.
While they cook, prepare the optional glaze by simmering the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and tamari for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
After 15 minutes, remove the sprouts from the air fryer and continue cooking the garlic for an additional 5 minutes.
Allow the garlic to cool, then mash it with a fork.
Drizzle the cooked Brussels sprouts with the maple balsamic glaze and add a spoonful of mashed garlic before serving.
Add herbs or spice blends such as Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or Cajun seasoning.
Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or finely chopped chili for a spicy kick.
Toss with panko breadcrumbs before air frying for extra crunch.
Add dried cranberries for a sweet, festive twist.
Swap the glaze for simple lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy version.
Combine with other air-fryer-friendly vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer, oven, or a stovetop skillet until warmed through and crisp again.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sprouts mushy.
Freezing is not recommended because the texture becomes soft once thawed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes. Leave space between them in the air fryer and add a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?
Overcrowding the basket prevents air circulation. Cook in batches and keep them in a single layer.
Do I have to cut the Brussels sprouts in half?
Cutting them increases surface area for caramelization and crispiness.
Can I make these without oil?
Yes, but the sprouts will be less crispy. A small amount of oil improves browning.
Can I roast them in the oven instead?
Roast at 400°F (205°C) for 30–40 minutes, turning halfway through.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the maple balsamic glaze can be prepared up to one week ahead and refrigerated.
What type of oil works best?
Neutral oils such as olive oil or avocado oil work well for air frying.
How do I prevent the garlic from drying out?
Wrapping it in foil keeps it soft and spreadable.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, vegetables like broccoli or asparagus cook well alongside Brussels sprouts.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. They reheat well and pair with many mains and grain bowls.
Conclusion
These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts are quick, flavorful, and versatile, making them a reliable vegetable side for everyday meals or special gatherings. With the optional maple balsamic glaze and endless seasoning variations, they’re easy to tailor to your taste and guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts are golden and tender with optional maple balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory finish. Quick, easy, and naturally vegan and gluten-free, they’re perfect for everyday dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts
1 tablespoon oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
1/4 teaspoon heaped salt
1/4 teaspoon heaped black pepper
1 small head of garlic
Optional Maple Balsamic Glaze:
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce
Instructions
Rinse Brussels sprouts, trim stems, and halve lengthwise. Place in a bowl.
Add oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange sprouts in a single layer.
Slice top off garlic head, brush with oil, wrap in foil, and place in air fryer.
Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket after 8–10 minutes.
While cooking, simmer glaze ingredients for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
Remove sprouts after 15 minutes. Continue cooking garlic for 5 more minutes.
Let garlic cool, then mash with a fork.
Drizzle cooked sprouts with glaze and top with mashed garlic before serving.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer for maximum crispiness.
Wrapping garlic in foil ensures it stays soft and mashable.
The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Try different seasonings like Cajun spice, smoked paprika, or lemon zest.
