Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15–20 minutes | Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Instructions

1. Prep Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any loose outer leaves. Cut larger sprouts in half.
2. Season: In a large bowl, toss the trimmed Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Air Fry (First Half): Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Add Parmesan: Open the air fryer basket, sprinkle the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts, and shake the basket again to distribute.
5. Air Fry (Second Half): Continue to air fry for another 5-10 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp, golden brown, and the cheese is slightly melted and crispy.
6. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for Brussels sprouts! The air fryer transforms them into crispy, flavorful bites that even skeptics will love. It’s incredibly quick, healthy, and a perfect way to add a delicious vegetable side or appetizer to your holiday meals without taking up precious oven space. The Parmesan cheese adds a irresistible savory kick.

What It Tastes Like

Crispy, savory, and slightly sweet with a hint of bitterness that is perfectly balanced. The outer leaves are wonderfully charred and crisp, while the inside remains tender. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth that makes them truly addictive.

Serving & Storage Tips

• Serving: Best served immediately while hot and crispy. They make an excellent side dish for holiday roasts or a delicious appetizer with a balsamic glaze for dipping.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They will lose some crispiness.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain some crispiness.

Helpful Tips

• Crowding: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in a single layer allows for maximum crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.
• Size Matters: Cut larger Brussels sprouts in half so they cook evenly with the smaller ones.
• Add-ins: A squeeze of lemon juice after cooking brightens the flavor. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey can also be added.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Yes, you can. Thaw them first and pat them very dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and air frying, otherwise, they will steam instead of crisp.
• Can I bake these instead? Yes, roast on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway, adding Parmesan for the last 10 minutes.
• Is this a good make-ahead dish? It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the sprouts and seasoning ahead of time.

Conclusion

Say goodbye to boring vegetables! These Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are so quick, easy, and undeniably delicious that they’ll become a new favorite side or appetizer, not just for the holidays, but all year round. Get ready for everyone to ask for the recipe!