Caramelized and full of flavor, balsamic brussels sprouts make a simple yet impressive side dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
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I used to skip right past Brussels sprouts at the market because I thought they were bland and boring. That changed once I tried making Brussels sprouts in an air fryer. They come out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with so much flavor that they've quickly become a regular side dish in my home.
I like to keep an eye on the sprouts during the last few minutes of air frying to ensure caramelization without burning. With this recipe, I like to use a pastry brush to coat them evenly in oil and balsamic. It makes all the difference and ensures every bite is delicious.
Ingredients
- Fresh Brussels sprouts - Provide a naturally nutty flavor and crisp-tender texture that shines when roasted or air-fried.
- Olive oil - Helps the sprouts crisp up while adding a rich, savory flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar - Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the bitterness of Brussels sprouts.
- Kosher salt - Enhances the natural flavors and makes the seasoning stand out.
- Ground black pepper - Brings a mild heat and earthy depth to the dish.
- Granulated garlic - Adds a subtle savory layer that complements the balsamic glaze.
Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.
Instructions
Wash, pat dry, and trim Brussels sprouts, then cut in half.
Place Brussels sprouts cut side up on a plate, then lightly brush with the oil and vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes for a quick marinate.
Transfer Brussels sprouts, cut side down, to the Air Fryer tray or basket. Lightly brush on the oil and vinegar, then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic.
Air fry at 375°F (191°C) and set for 14 minutes. After 5 minutes or before the outer leaves are burnt, remove and spray with oil. Then flip and lightly brush with oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper, then continue air-frying until crisp-tender.
Remove from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate.
Hint: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the Brussels sprouts with oil and vinegar. This ensures every sprout gets crisp and flavorful without soggy spots.
Variations
Here are some easy and flexible ways to customize this balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts recipe so it fits different tastes and occasions:
- Add cheese - Sprinkle Parmesan or crumbled feta over the sprouts for a salty, creamy finish.
- Make it smoky - Toss in smoked paprika or add crisped bacon bits for extra depth.
- Go spicy - Drizzle with hot honey, add red pepper flakes, or serve with a side of sriracha.
- Sweet twist - Mix in dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or a touch of maple syrup for balance.
- Cultural flair - Add soy sauce and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired touch, or toss with cumin and chili powder for a Mexican-style side.
- Extra crunch - Top with toasted almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts for texture.
Tips
Hint: Keep a close eye on the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of air frying. This helps prevent the leaves from burning.
- Wash with cold water and pat the sprouts dry before cooking for the best crisp.
- Trim only a small part of the stem to keep the leaves intact and prevent them from flying around in the air fryer.
- Shake the basket or tray halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- Avoid overcrowding to give the sprouts room so the hot air can circulate properly.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor, since Brussels sprouts lose crispiness as they sit.
Serving suggestions
These air fryer roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar make a versatile side dish that pairs well with both everyday meals and holiday feasts. I often serve them alongside air-fried whole chicken or air fryer salmon for a balanced dinner that doesn't feel heavy. If you're planning a larger spread, they fit right in with classics like mashed red potatoes or stuffing.
Storage
Leftover Brussel sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them tasting their best, let them cool completely before sealing the container so excess moisture doesn't make them soggy.
To reheat, simply preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), then heat the sprouts for 3 to 5 minutes, shaking the basket or rotating halfway through. If you don't have time for the air fryer, the oven works well too. Just pread them on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F until heated through.
While the microwave is the fastest option, it tends to soften the sprouts and make them lose their crispness. If you use it, reheat in short bursts and enjoy right away. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend sticking with the air fryer or oven whenever possible.
FAQs
Yes! You can roast the Brussels sprouts on a sheet pan in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're tender and caramelized.
A good-quality balsamic vinegar with a slightly sweet, syrupy consistency works best since it caramelizes nicely and adds depth of flavor.
Avoid trimming too much of the stem so the leaves stay attached, and keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes of cooking as air fryers get hotter the longer they run.
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Recipe
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 8 pieces fresh Brussels sprouts (255 grams, 9 ounces)
- 1.5 tablespoons olive oil plus oil spray
- ¾ tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon granulated garlic
Instructions
- Wash, pat dry, and trim Brussels sprouts then cut in half.
- On a plate, place Brussels sprouts cut side up, then lightly brush with oil and balsamic vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes for a quick marinate.
- Transfer marinated Brussels sprouts, cut side down, onto the Air Fryer tray. Lightly brush each Brussels sprout with oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic.
- Slowly insert the Air Fryer tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch in a pre-heated Air Fryer oven.
- Air Fry at 375°F (191°C) and set for 14 minutes.
- If the Air Fryer used has a basket, place the marinated Brussels sprouts into the basket and follow accordingly.
- After 5 minutes or before the outer leaves are burnt, remove the Air Fryer tray and spray the Brussels sprouts with oil. Then flip Brussels sprouts and lightly brush with oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper, then return the Air Fryer tray to the middle cooking chamber.
- Continue to Air Fry seasoned Brussels sprouts for the remaining minutes or until crisp tender.
- Remove from the Air Fryer and transfer to a serving plate.
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