If you’re searching for the ultimate veggie side that’s crispy, savory, and honestly downright addictive, let me introduce you to Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts. Each bite is golden and crunchy on the outside, tender within, and loaded with fresh garlic and the irresistible umami of parmesan. They come together in under 30 minutes and are hands-down one of my favorite ways to serve Brussels sprouts!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer creates irresistibly browned, crispy edges on every sprout—no soggy veggies here!
- Garlicky, Cheesy Goodness: Every bite is packed with fresh garlic and a generous shower of nutty parmesan for tons of flavor.
- Fast & Fuss-Free: These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts require just a handful of pantry staples and are ready in about 25 minutes.
- Perfect for Sharing: They make a crowd-pleasing app, snack, or side dish that even reluctant Brussels sprouts eaters can’t resist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a short stack of simple, trusty ingredients to whip up Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, but each one brings something deliciously important to the party. Here’s how every element helps deliver those crave-worthy flavors and textures you’ll love.
- Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts are the star—halved for maximum crispiness and perfect caramelized edges.
- Olive Oil: Just enough to help everything get that gorgeous golden crunch; use extra-virgin for a richer flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the whole dish and balances the richness of the cheese and garlic.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses every bite with bold, aromatic flavor—don’t be shy!
- Salt: Brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts and tightens up all the flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: Lots of it, both in the coating and as a finishing sprinkle, for nutty, salty umami and extra crunch.
Variations
One of the best things about Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts? How easy it is to give them your own creative twist. Feel free to experiment based on what you have in the fridge or your family’s taste buds—here are a few delicious options to get started!
- Add Heat: Toss the sprouts with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey before serving for some sweet-spicy flair.
- Bacon or Pancetta: Crumble crisp-cooked bacon or chopped pancetta over the finished sprouts for next-level savory crunch and richness.
- Vegan Variation: Replace parmesan with a dairy-free variety and use vegan mayo in place of cheese for a new take that everyone can enjoy.
- Different Cheeses: Try swapping in aged pecorino, asiago, or even sharp cheddar if you’re in the mood to play with bold cheeses.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Start by giving your Brussels sprouts a good rinse, then trim the ends and slice each one in half lengthwise. Halving them is the secret to those ultra-crispy, caramelized edges that make this dish so irresistible!
Step 2: Toss with Flavor
In a roomy mixing bowl, combine your halved sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and half the parmesan. Mix well to evenly coat every sprout—the cheese will help form those delicious savory “crusts” as they crisp up.
Step 3: Air Fry Until Golden
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the basket; don’t overcrowd! Give them about 8 minutes, then pause, shake gently, and sprinkle on the remaining parmesan.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Continue air frying for another 7 to 8 minutes, or until your Brussels sprouts are gloriously crisp and browned in spots. Taste and add a pinch more salt or parmesan if you’d like, then serve immediately for maximum crunch and cheesy goodness!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Choose Your Sprouts Wisely: Smaller Brussels sprouts tend to cook more evenly in the air fryer and get extra crisp—seek out uniform sizes for best results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the sprouts in a single layer with a little space between each; this allows hot air to circulate and ensures every piece gets its golden moment.
- Double Cheese Layer: Sprinkling half the parmesan at the start and the rest halfway through gives you a melty baseline and crispy finish—texture lovers, rejoice!
- Shake Gently, Cook Evenly: Giving the basket a gentle shake halfway through is key for even browning and keeps your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts from sticking together.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, shower your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with a little more freshly grated parmesan and a twist of black pepper. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon makes everything pop with color and freshness.
Side Dishes
These sprouts are natural scene-stealers next to roast chicken, juicy pork chops, or flaky salmon. They also make a snazzy addition to holiday spreads, grain bowls, or a midweek “veggie on everything” night.
Creative Ways to Present
Try threading individual sprouts onto skewers for party-friendly finger food or pile them high in a shallow platter and drizzle with lemon aioli. Leftovers? Chop and toss them into salads or fold into omelets for a flavor bomb breakfast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts cool to room temperature, then pop them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 days—perfect for prepping ahead!
Freezing
While technically you can freeze these sprouts, I recommend enjoying them fresh if possible. Freezing may soften their crisp edges, but if you do freeze, lay them out on a tray to freeze individually, then store in a zip bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To keep your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts crispy, reheat them right in the air fryer at 350°F for a couple of minutes. The oven works in a pinch too, but the microwave may leave them a little soft.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen sprouts in a pinch—just thaw and thoroughly pat them dry first to avoid mushy results. The texture may be a little softer, but they’ll still be flavorful and delicious!
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What’s the best way to keep the Brussels sprouts from burning in the air fryer?
Every air fryer runs a bit differently, so be sure to check your sprouts a few minutes early the first time you cook them. Shaking the basket and arranging the sprouts in a single layer helps avoid overbrowning.
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Can I prepare Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep and toss the raw sprouts with oil, garlic, and seasonings a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to cook. For best texture, air fry just before serving.
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Is this recipe gluten free?
It sure is! Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts use naturally gluten-free ingredients, so as long as your parmesan is GF-certified, you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like digging into a bowl of homemade Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts—crisp, garlicky, and bursting with cheesy flavor. I hope this recipe tempts you to give Brussels sprouts another chance (or fall for them all over again!). If you make them, I’d love to hear how you served them and what twists you added. Happy cooking!
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: Modern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are a crispy and flavorful side dish that’s easy to make. The Brussels sprouts are perfectly seasoned with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese, then air-fried to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 lb brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved lengthwise
Seasoning:
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Heat air fryer to 375 degrees. In a medium bowl, toss together brussels sprouts, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, mixing well.
- Place brussels sprouts in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Fry for 8 minutes, then shake the basket and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese.
- Continue to air fry for an additional 7 to 8 minutes, or until brussels are crisp and tender.
- Remove from air fryer, season with additional salt and parmesan cheese, if needed, and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure Brussels sprouts are cut evenly for even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 155 kcal
- Sugar: 2.7g
- Sodium: 472.3mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11.5g
- Fiber: 4.4g
- Protein: 7.8g
- Cholesterol: N/A
