Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan

Crispy brussel sprouts and parmesan make an easy air fryer side with plenty of garlic flavor. They cook in just 15 minutes, making them a simple choice for busy weeknight dinners.

I've found that the air fryer is one of the easiest ways to get Brussels sprouts nicely browned without having to turn on the oven. After making them a few times, I learned that cutting the sprouts about the same size helps them cook more evenly, while plenty of garlic and Parmesan gives them enough flavor to stand on their own. I especially like serving them alongside a chicken and stuffing casserole when I want an easy vegetable to round out a comfort food dinner.

These Brussels sprouts are also quick enough to make when the main dish already needs most of my attention. I've learned not to crowd the air fryer tray because giving the sprouts some space helps the cut sides brown instead of staying soft. They're a simple side for weeknight dinners and pair especially well with something hearty like my steak with balsamic sauce recipe.

Ingredients

You only need five simple ingredients plus salt and pepper to make these delicious sprouts. It's a super easy Brussels sprouts recipe.

Here's what you'll need to make the dish:

• Brussels sprouts
• olive oil
• minced garlic
• onion powder
• grated Parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

Instructions

Ready to make these crispy parmesan Brussels sprouts? To start, you'll need to trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.

Hint: shaking the air fryer basket a couple of times during the cooking process ensures that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly on all sides.

Variations

• Change the cheese. Swap Parmesan for grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor.
• Use garlic powder. If you don't have fresh garlic, replace the minced garlic with garlic powder. It also has less chance of scorching in the air fryer.
• Add a little heat. Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or a small amount of cayenne before air frying.
• Add lemon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the Brussels sprouts after cooking to brighten up the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
• Try balsamic vinegar. Make balsamic vinegar Brussels sprouts by drizzling on balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze after cooking.
• Make them smoky. Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasonings for a subtle smoky flavor.
• Add bacon. Toss cooked, crumbled bacon with the Brussels sprouts before serving for a heartier side dish.
• Switch the oil. Avocado oil can be used in place of olive oil if that's what you have on hand.
• Add some crunch. Sprinkle toasted chopped walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds over the finished sprouts.

Tips

• Dry the Brussels sprouts well. After washing, remove as much moisture as possible. Excess water creates steam and can keep the sprouts from getting crisp.
• Choose similar-sized sprouts. Halve larger Brussels sprouts and leave very small ones whole so everything finishes cooking around the same time.
• Give them some breathing room. Avoid packing the air fryer too tightly. Good airflow around the sprouts helps the edges brown and crisp.
• Place the cut sides down. Starting with the flat sides against the tray or basket encourages better browning and gives you those crisp, caramelized edges.
• Use finely grated Parmesan. It coats the sprouts more evenly than larger shreds and is more likely to create little crispy bits as it cooks.
• Watch the garlic closely. Minced garlic can brown quickly in an air fryer. Make sure it's well coated with oil rather than sitting loose on the tray where it can burn.
• For extra crispness, cook a little hotter at the end. If the sprouts are tender but not quite crisp enough, increase the temperature for the final minute or two while watching them closely.
• Serve them right away. Air-fried Brussels sprouts are crispiest straight from the air fryer. They soften as they sit, particularly once covered or refrigerated.

Storage

Once cooled, transfer them into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove any excess moisture from the sprouts by patting them dry with a paper towel before storage. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you want to store them for longer periods, consider freezing them. Place the cooled Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that freezing may slightly affect their texture upon thawing.

When ready to eat, simply reheat the frozen or refrigerated sprouts in the oven or microwave until warmed through, and enjoy!

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