Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and drizzled with a sweet, tangy balsamic glaze that makes them completely irresistible. They’re an easy, hands-off side dish that’s perfect for the holidays, freeing up your oven for everything else on the menu. Ready in 15 minutes.
Save this recipe and come back to it the next time you are cooking flank steak or thick boneless pork chops. They both pair perfectly with the Brussels sprouts.
I absolutely love a good excuse to add balsamic glaze to just about anything, and these Brussels sprouts are the perfect reason. I first made this crispy Brussels sprouts recipe when I was testing sides for a Friendsgiving spread and wanted something simple, beautiful, and quick. Using the air fryer meant the oven stayed open for the turkey and stuffing (a total win during holiday chaos).
Once I drizzled on the balsamic glaze and added a sprinkle of goat cheese and craisins, they disappeared in minutes! The flavor combo of crispy, caramelized veggies with that glossy, sweet-tart glaze is so good!
This is one of those dishes that feels fancy without trying. And the fact that you can put it together with only a few ingredients (veggies being the main focus) makes it a great side dish option.
If you’re a huge Brussels sprouts fan, you’ll also love my other versions: Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon and Teriyaki Brussels Sprouts. And if you love balsamic glaze as much as I do, you’ve got to try it on Avocado Toast.
Why You’ll Love
- Crispy, not soggy – Single layer cooking and one good shake give you caramelized edges with tender centers.
- Fast – 5 Minutes of prep, 12 – 15 minutes of cook time.
- Flexible finish – Balsamic and goat cheese is the classic here, but you can swap in Parmesan, bacon, or hot honey.
- Using the air fryer means the oven is free for the main dish.
Free Printable
When To Thaw Your Turkey!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
Recipe Notes
- Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved; quarter extra-large ones so everything cooks evenly.
- Balsamic glaze: Store-bought or homemade.
- Goat cheese: Creamy, tangy contrast.
- Craisins – I love the sweetness they offer. Pomegranates would be a great substitute.
See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
Tips & Variations
- Extra crisp? Air fry at 400°F for the last 2 minutes.
- Homemade balsamic glaze: Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey until thick and syrupy (10–15 minutes).
- Nut options: Pecans and walnuts bring a cozy holiday vibe; almonds are a bit lighter and crunchier.
- Make it sweeter: Use candied pecans or walnuts for extra holiday flair.
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prep the sprouts. Trim the ends and pull off any loose leaves. Halve each sprout; quarter the big ones. Be sure they are nice and dry.
Step 2: Season. In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated and glossy.
Step 3: Air fry. Preheat to 375°F. Arrange sprouts in a single layer in the basket. Cook 12 to 15 minutes, shake at 6 to 7 minutes, and continue to cook until the edges are deep golden with a few charred leaves and the centers pierce with slight resistance.
Step 4: Finish and serve. Transfer hot sprouts to a platter. Drizzle 1 to 2 tbsp balsamic glaze, sprinkle the goat cheese, and craisins. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Serve immediately.
FAQ
They were likely too large or crowded. Quarter bigger pieces or cook 1 to 2 minutes longer after the shake.
Preheating helps the edges brown and keeps the cook time consistent.
Yes. Try Parmesan, feta, or leave the cheese off.
They will not get as crisp. If you must, thaw and dry well, then expect a softer result.
Did you make the recipe? Let us know what you thought by leaving a comment below and sharing it on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook! Thanks so much!
Recipe
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Ultra Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 1 ½ Tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons balsamic glaze for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
- ¼ cup craisins optional
Instructions
- Trim off the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. If they’re large, quarter them for quicker cooking.1 pound Brussels sprouts
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.1 ½ Tablespoons olive oil, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Add the Brussels sprouts to the basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are browned, tender, and crispy on the edges.
- Transfer the cooked sprouts to a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with goat cheese and craisins. Serve warm.2 Tablespoons balsamic glaze, ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese, ¼ cup craisins
Notes
Pro Tips for Extra Crisp
-
- Dry matters. Any surface moisture slows browning.
- Do not crowd. A loose single layer is key. Cook in two quick batches if needed.
- Preheat. A hot basket jump-starts browning.
- Adjust for size. Quarter jumbo sprouts or add 1 to 2 minutes to soften the centers.
Nutrition
What to Serve With
These go with nearly everything: pork tenderloin, grilled or baked BBQ chicken, steaks, pork chops or salmon are all good options.
Storage and Reheat
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat: Air fryer 360°F for 3 to 4 minutes to re-crisp. Add balsamic and cheese after reheating.
Troubleshooting
- Too soft: Basket is crowded or sprouts were damp. Dry better and cook in smaller batches.
- Bitter: Use fresh, bright-green sprouts and avoid over-charring; balance with a touch more glaze or a squeeze of lemon
Why Air Frying Brussels Sprouts Is Better Than Oven Roasting
Roasting Brussels sprouts in the oven is great, but the air fryer makes them even better. The high heat circulation creates that deep caramelization and crispy texture in half the time. Who doesn’t love spending less time in the kitchen and getting a better result?
Plus, your oven stays free for pies, casseroles, and everything else you’re juggling during the holidays. Tossing a healthy side dish into the air fryer is one of my favorite tricks for keeping meals stress-free and balanced.
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