Brussel Sprout Recipes Air Fryer 13 Crispy Ideas Under 20 Minutes

Tired of soggy, sad Brussels sprouts that feel more like a punishment than a pleasure? You’ve followed the oven-roasting recipes, you’ve tried boiling them, but you always end up with a plate of mushy, underwhelming vegetables that nobody wants to eat. It’s frustrating when you know they have the potential to be a delicious, crave-worthy side dish.

That limp, overcooked texture is a common kitchen tragedy. It often comes from steaming instead of roasting, whether it’s due to an overcrowded pan in the oven or simply the wrong cooking method. You deserve a side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and so addictive you’ll forget it’s good for you.

The secret to impossibly crispy Brussels sprouts is using your air fryer to circulate hot air rapidly, which roasts the outer leaves to a perfect crunch while keeping the inside tender. This method uses far less oil than deep-frying or oven-roasting and delivers restaurant-quality results in under 20 minutes, every single time.

Tired of Soggy Sprouts? Here’s How to Get Impossibly Crispy Brussels in Your Air Fryer (Updated for 2025)

The absolute key to getting crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts is using fresh sprouts, not overcrowding the basket to allow for hot air circulation, and shaking them halfway through cooking. After testing dozens of methods, we’ve cracked the code on achieving that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture every single time. This technique uses significantly less oil than traditional roasting and transforms sprouts from soggy to spectacular in a fraction of the time.

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Who else always orders Brussels sprouts when you see them on a menu? 👋 This recipe tastes just like those restaurant sprouts (but without deep frying!) These air fryer Brussels sprouts are ready in about 15 minutes (and while the hot honey is optional, it absolutely takes it to the next level). 1. Prep: Trim 1 lb Brussels sprouts by removing the tough ends and any damaged outer leaves. Rinse under cold water and pat dry. If they’re large, cut them in half. Toss with 1 Tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper. 2. Air Fry: Arrange Brussels sprouts in a single layer in your air fryer (work in batches if needed). Cook at 375°F for 8 to 12 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. They’re done when browned and crispy on the edges. 3. Hot Honey (Optional): Combine 2 Tbsp honey and 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 10 to 15 seconds until hot. Strain out the pepper flakes if you want a milder spice. 4. Serve: Drizzle the hot honey over the Brussels sprouts and serve warm! #airfryerrecipes #airfrying #brusselssprouts #hothoney #airfry #eatyourveggies

♬ Dreams (2004 Remaster) – Fleetwood Mac

The 5 Golden Rules for Restaurant-Worthy Crispy Brussels Sprouts

To guarantee crispy results every time, follow five essential rules: keep them dry, give them space, use a little oil, shake them midway, and add glazes last. Understanding the why behind each rule is the difference between good sprouts and great ones.

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is the most important rule. You must cook sprouts in a single layer to allow the hot air to circulate around each one. Overcrowding traps moisture and causes the sprouts to steam, resulting in a soggy texture instead of a crispy, roasted one. If you have a lot of sprouts, cook them in batches.
2. Pat Them Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. After you wash and trim your sprouts, you must pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Any excess water on the surface will turn to steam in the air fryer, preventing those outer leaves from getting that delicious, crunchy char.
3. Use a Little Oil: While air frying uses less oil than other methods, a small amount is crucial for achieving that golden-brown color and crispy texture. The oil helps conduct heat and facilitates the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for that irresistible roasted flavor. Don’t skip it!
4. Shake, Shake, Shake: Tossing the sprouts in the basket halfway through the cooking time is non-negotiable. Air fryers cook most intensely from the top down. Shaking ensures that all sides of the sprouts get exposed to the direct heat, leading to even cooking and all-around crispiness.
5. Time Your Glaze: If you’re adding a wet sauce or a sugary glaze (like balsamic or honey), do it in the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Adding it too early will cause the sugars to burn before the sprouts are cooked, and the excess moisture can make your perfectly crispy sprouts turn soggy.

13 Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprout Recipes (Ready in Under 20 Minutes)

Ready to transform your Brussels sprout game? We’ve curated a list of 13 distinct, tested recipes designed for maximum flavor and crispiness with minimal effort. From cheesy and savory to sweet and spicy, there’s a quick and easy option here for every taste preference, and each one is ready in less than 20 minutes.

1. Classic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

The best recipe for a simple, savory, and cheesy crowd-pleaser is to toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, seasonings, and Parmesan, then air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes. This creates a perfectly golden and crispy side dish.

• Ingredients: 6 large Brussels sprouts (halved), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
  2. In a bowl, toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well-coated.
  3. Arrange the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket and sprinkle with half of the Parmesan cheese.
  4. Cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket and adding the remaining cheese halfway through. Continue cooking until they are golden and crispy.

Pro-Tip: Add the second half of the Parmesan during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. This ensures it melts perfectly without burning, creating a crispier cheese crust.

Pin this cheesy side dish for your next weeknight meal!

2. Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Honey Brussels Sprouts

To create a bold, addictive flavor, air fry seasoned sprouts until crispy, then toss them in a simple sauce of honey, sriracha, and melted butter, and cook for 2 more minutes to caramelize the glaze.

• Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder. For the sauce: 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp sriracha, 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Trim and halve the sprouts.
  2. Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Air fry for 12-16 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden and crispy.
  4. While the sprouts are cooking, whisk together the honey, sriracha, and melted butter.
  5. In a separate bowl, toss the crispy sprouts with the sauce, then return them to the air fryer and cook for 2 more minutes to set the glaze.

Pro-Tip: For a stickier glaze, ensure the butter is fully melted and whisked vigorously with the honey and sriracha. Tossing the sprouts in a separate bowl ensures every sprout gets evenly coated before the final 2-minute cook.

Save this recipe to your ‘Spicy Sides’ board!

3. Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

For this classic savory dish, simply toss halved Brussels sprouts and diced raw bacon together with olive oil and seasonings, then air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes.

• Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, 3-4 strips of diced bacon.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
  2. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the sprouts, diced raw bacon, olive oil, and all seasonings until everything is well-coated.
  4. Place the mixture in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.

Lesson Learned: Don’t pre-cook the bacon. The fat will render out as it air fries with the sprouts, infusing them with incredible flavor and helping them get extra crispy.

The perfect holiday side dish! Pin it now.

4. The Easiest Air Fryer Frozen Brussels Sprouts

For a super quick side, place frozen Brussels sprouts directly into a cold air fryer basket, toss with oil and salt, and cook at 390°F for 18-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

• Ingredients: 16 oz bag of frozen Brussels sprouts, 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Do not preheat the air fryer.
  2. Place the frozen Brussels sprouts directly into the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat.
  3. Spread the sprouts in an even layer.
  4. Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook for 10 minutes.
  5. Toss the sprouts, then continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until they are crisp and slightly charred on the edges.

Pro-Tip: Don’t thaw the sprouts first! Cooking them directly from frozen helps them steam on the inside while the high heat of the air fryer crisps the outside, preventing a mushy texture.

Save this time-saving hack to your ‘Easy Dinners’ board!

5. Simple Balsamic Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

This classic recipe requires you to toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, then air fry at 360°F for 15-20 minutes until tender and crisp.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, black pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F.
  2. Trim and halve the sprouts.
  3. In a bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender and crispy.

Pro-Tip: For a more intense flavor, toss the sprouts with the balsamic vinegar after they have cooked and crisped up. For a deeper, caramelized flavor, toss them before as the recipe states.

Pin this classic recipe for an easy, elegant side!

6. Quick Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Parmesan

For an all-in-one savory side, combine sprouts with finely cut bacon, Parmesan, minced garlic, and olive oil, then air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking midway.

• Ingredients: 700g Brussels sprouts, 4 slices bacon (finely cut), 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Clean and trim the sprouts. In a large bowl, combine sprouts with bacon pieces, Parmesan, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Add the mixture to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking midway, until sprouts are tender and the bacon is crisp.

Lesson Learned: Mincing the garlic and cutting the bacon finely is key. This ensures the flavors distribute evenly and the bacon bits get perfectly crispy in the short cooking time without overpowering the sprouts.

Save this ultimate savory side dish to your recipe board!

7. Lemony Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

For a bright, fresh flavor, toss sprouts with olive oil and lemon juice, air fry at 390°F for 15 minutes, then immediately toss with fresh Parmesan cheese after cooking.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
  2. Trim and halve the sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes for even crisping.
  4. Once cooked, remove from the basket and immediately toss with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Pro-Tip: Add the Parmesan after cooking. Tossing the hot sprouts with the cheese right out of the air fryer allows it to melt slightly and adhere without the risk of it burning during the cooking process.

Need a fresh side dish? Pin this zesty recipe!

8. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

To achieve a crunchy exterior with a juicy interior, air fry seasoned, garlic-tossed sprouts at 370°F for about 12 minutes, then drizzle with a thick balsamic glaze immediately before serving.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, 1.5 tbsp olive oil, 2-3 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2-3 tbsp balsamic glaze.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F for 5 minutes.
  2. Toss trimmed sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook for 5 minutes, shake the basket. Cook for another 5 minutes, shake again. Cook for a final 2 minutes until desired crispiness is reached.
  4. Remove from the air fryer, place in a bowl, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Toss to coat and serve immediately.

Pro-Tip: Using a pre-made balsamic glaze (which is thicker than vinegar) is crucial here. It will coat the sprouts beautifully without making them soggy. Drizzle it on right at the end while the sprouts are still hot.

Get the gourmet look! Pin this elegant recipe.

9. The Simplest 4-Ingredient Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

For the most foolproof recipe, toss 1.5 lbs of halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper, then air fry at 390°F for 15 minutes.

• Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
  2. Trim and halve the sprouts.
  3. In a bowl, mix the sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread evenly in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 15 minutes, checking and shaking halfway through.

Lesson Learned: Even with a simple recipe, the quality of ingredients matters. Using a good quality olive oil and freshly ground pepper can elevate this dish from basic to fantastic.

Back to basics! Pin this foolproof recipe.

10. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Oregano and Parmesan

For an herby twist, air fry seasoned sprouts at a high heat of 400°F in short 4-minute bursts for 10-12 minutes total, then top with Parmesan and fresh oregano.

• Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, 1.5 tsp olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh oregano for garnish.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Trim and halve sprouts, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Air fry for 4 minutes, then shake. Cook for another 4 minutes, shake again. Repeat 1-2 more times (total 10-12 mins) until crispy.
  4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh oregano.

Pro-Tip: The “pulse” cooking method (cooking in short 4-minute bursts and shaking) at a high temperature (400°F) is excellent for achieving an extra-crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.

Love fresh herbs? Pin this recipe now!

11. Base Recipe: The 15-Minute Blank Canvas

To create a perfect base for any flavor, toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at a moderate 350°F for 12-15 minutes. This foundational recipe is ready for customization.

• Ingredients: 12 oz Brussels sprouts (halved), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
  2. Toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until cooked through and crispy on the edges.
  4. Use as a base and toss with your favorite glaze or seasoning after cooking.

Pro-Tip: This lower temperature (350°F) is perfect for a base recipe. It cooks the sprouts through perfectly, ready to be tossed with a sauce and blasted for another minute or two at a higher temp if desired.

Master the basics! Pin this foundational recipe.

12. Fail-Proof Crispy Brussels Sprouts (The Classic Method)

For a reliable classic that works every time, toss bone-dry, halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking vigorously halfway through.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
  2. Prepare sprouts: clean, pat completely dry, and halve them.
  3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add to the air fryer in a single layer.
  5. Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket vigorously halfway through.

Lesson Learned: The most critical step in this classic recipe is ensuring the sprouts are bone-dry before adding oil. This single step makes a huge difference in achieving a crispy, rather than steamed, result.

The only classic recipe you’ll ever need. Pin it!

13. The 10-Minute Brussels Sprouts Express

For the absolute fastest results, toss quartered Brussels sprouts with seasonings and olive oil, and air fry at 370°F for just 10 minutes, flipping after 5 minutes.

• Ingredients: 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, 1.5 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp pepper, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder.
• Instructions:
  1. Rinse and pat sprouts dry. Quarter them, or halve any particularly large ones.
  2. In a bowl, toss the sprouts with all spices and drizzle with olive oil. Stir to coat.
  3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  4. Set to 370°F and cook for 10 minutes total. Stir or flip after 5 minutes.

Pro-Tip: Quartering the sprouts instead of halving them is the secret to this recipe’s speed. It increases the surface area, allowing them to cook through and crisp up much faster.

In a hurry? Pin this 10-minute lifesaver!

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Remember these core principles, and you’ll never have a soggy sprout again. This quick summary reinforces the most important lessons for achieving Brussels sprout perfection.

• The Golden Rule: Always cook in a single, un-crowded layer for maximum crispiness.
• Fresh is Best: Fresh Brussels sprouts will yield a much crispier result than frozen, though frozen is great in a pinch.
• Shake it Up: Tossing the basket halfway through cooking is essential for even browning.
• Top Flavor Combos:
  • Savory: Parmesan, Garlic, and Bacon.
  • Tangy: Balsamic Vinegar or Glaze.
  • Sweet & Spicy: Honey and Sriracha.
• Reheat Like a Pro: Bring leftovers back to life by reheating them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F.

People Also Ask About brussel sprout recipes air fryer

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have when making Brussels sprouts in the air fryer.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when air frying Brussels sprouts?

The most common mistake is overcrowding the air fryer basket, which steams the sprouts instead of crisping them. Other mistakes include not using enough oil, which prevents browning, and not shaking the basket halfway through, which leads to uneven cooking. Also, adding a wet glaze too early can cause it to burn.

What are good seasonings to put on Brussels sprouts?

Great savory seasonings for Brussels sprouts include garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. For a tangy flavor, use balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice. For sweet and spicy notes, try a glaze of honey or maple syrup mixed with sriracha or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme also work well.

Is it better to roast or air fry brussels sprouts?

Air frying is generally better for achieving a super crispy texture with less oil and in less time compared to conventional roasting. The powerful, circulating hot air of an air fryer is perfect for crisping the outer leaves while keeping the inside tender. Roasting is also great but typically requires more oil and a longer cooking time.

How long do you cook halved Brussels sprouts in an air fryer?

Halved Brussels sprouts typically cook in the air fryer for 10 to 16 minutes at a temperature between 370°F and 400°F. The exact time depends on your air fryer model and how crispy you like them. It’s crucial to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

Say goodbye to soggy sprouts forever. With an air fryer and these simple tips and recipes, perfectly crispy, flavorful, and downright addictive Brussels sprouts are easily achievable for any home cook. You now have a quick, healthy, and endlessly customizable side dish in your arsenal that will convert even the most skeptical eaters.

What’s your favorite way to season air fryer Brussels sprouts? Let me know in the comments below