Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan recipe (Easy & Quick)15-Minute Side
These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with parmesan are golden and flavorful in about 15 minutes — a quick veggie side everyone loves
Tools You’ll Need for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Air Fryer (any 3–6 qt model)
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board + sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Microplate or fine grater (for parmesan)
Try this recipe together with
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Ingredients Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
For the Brussels sprouts
- 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts, small
- 2–3 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional but highly recommended — makes them extra crispy)
For finishing
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan (or already grated Parmesan)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, highly recommended)
Cook Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
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Instructions for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
1. Prep the Brussels sprouts
- Trim the stem ends.
- Cut each sprout in half (tiny ones can stay whole).
- Rinse and dry very well — moisture prevents crisping.
2. Season
In a large bowl, toss the sprouts with:
- olive oil
- salt
- pepper
- garlic powder
- paprika
- cornstarch (optional, but this is your “secret ingredient” for perfect crunch)
Mix until everything is evenly coated.
3. Air Fry
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Add the Brussels sprouts in a single layer, as an illustration (slightly crowded is okay, but don’t stack).
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Cook until the edges are deeply golden and crispy.
4. Finish with Parmesan
Immediately transfer the hot sprouts to a bowl and sprinkle with:
- freshly grated Parmesan
- You can use already grated Parmesan to save time — it still melts beautifully and adds great flavor.
It melts slightly and creates that classic salty, cheesy flavor.
5. Serve
- Add a squeeze of lemon if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Brussels Sprouts
✔ Dry very well
Water = steaming, not crisping. A dry surface crisps beautifully.
✔ Add cornstarch
Just 1 teaspoon adds a crunchy coating without changing the flavor.
✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan
It melts and sticks better than packaged cheese.
✔ Boost the crispiness at the end
Increase heat to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes.
Optional Flavor Variations
Try these to keep the recipe exciting:
Honey Chili Brussels Sprouts
Add:
- 1 Tbsp honey
- pinch of red pepper flakes
Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle balsamic reduction right before serving.
Garlic Butter
Toss hot sprouts with 1 Tbsp melted butter + extra garlic.
Pecorino Romano
For a stronger, saltier cheese flavor.
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How to Store & Reheat crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Store in an airtight container 2–3 days.
- Reheat in the Air Fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving — it softens them.
How to Serve Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with:
- chicken or salmon dishes
- mashed potatoes
- holiday mains
- pasta dishes
- as a simple appetizer with lemon wedges
They’re also perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any dinner party.
❓ FAQ
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Thaw completely and pat dry very well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — cook in 2 batches for best crispiness.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Absolutely! Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan
Ingredients
Method
- Trim the stem ends.
- Cut each sprout in half (tiny ones can stay whole).
- Rinse and dry very well — moisture prevents crisping.
- In a large bowl, toss the sprouts with:
- olive oil
- salt
- pepper
- garlic powder
- paprika
- cornstarch (optional, but this is your “secret ingredient” for perfect crunch)
- Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Add the Brussels sprouts in a single layer (slightly crowded is okay, but don’t stack).
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Cook until the edges are deeply golden and crispy.
- Immediately transfer the hot sprouts to a bowl and sprinkle with:
- freshly grated Parmesan
- You can use already grated Parmesan to save time — it still melts beautifully and adds great flavor.
- It melts slightly and creates that classic salty, cheesy flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!
Thanks for reading!
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NATALIA
