I used to dread Brussels sprouts until I discovered the magic of the air fryer. My first attempt at garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts was a total game-changer – crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor. Now they’re my go-to side dish when I need something quick, healthy, and downright addictive. The best part? No babysitting a hot oven or dealing with soggy results. In just 15 minutes, you can transform these little green gems into golden perfection with that irresistible garlicky, cheesy crust. Trust me, even your pickiest eaters will be reaching for seconds of these garlic parmesan air fryer Brussels sprouts.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These aren’t your grandma’s mushy Brussels sprouts – they’re a flavor explosion that’ll make you wonder why you ever disliked them. Here’s why they’re my new obsession:
- Crazy crispy texture – The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without deep frying
- Ready in 15 minutes – Faster than preheating my oven most days
- Healthier than chips – All that crispy satisfaction with actual nutrients. For more information on the nutritional benefits of cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts, check out resources on vegetable nutrition.
- Garlic parmesan magic – The flavor combo that makes everyone ask for the recipe
- No babysitting – Just shake the basket once and walk away
Seriously, these might just become your new favorite way to eat veggies.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Here’s all you need to make these addictive little bites – I promise your pantry probably has most of this already! The magic is in the simple ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (look for similar-sized ones)
- 2 tbsp olive oil – makes them crisp up beautifully
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, but 1 tsp jarred works in a pinch)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – the good stuff from the refrigerated section
- 1/2 tsp salt – I use kosher for even seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – freshly cracked if you can
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but gives a nice little kick)
See? Nothing fancy – just real ingredients that pack a flavor punch.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Okay, let me walk you through my foolproof method for perfect Brussels sprouts every single time. I’ve burned enough batches to know exactly what works (and what doesn’t) in the air fryer!
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
First, grab those sprouts and give them a quick trim – just slice off the tough stem ends. Then cut them in half lengthwise. This isn’t just for looks – those flat sides get extra crispy! If you’ve got any giant ones, quarter them so everything cooks evenly.
Step 2: Season and Toss
Now the fun part! Toss your prepped sprouts in a big bowl with the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Really get in there with your hands – you want every nook and cranny coated. The oil helps them crisp up while the garlic infuses them with flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) – this little step makes all the difference! Arrange the sprouts in a single layer in the basket (no stacking or they’ll steam instead of crisp). Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown with crispy edges and tender inside. Pro tip: If your air fryer runs small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. If you need more inspiration for using your appliance, check out these air fryer roast chicken recipes.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Serve
As soon as they come out hot, sprinkle that glorious parmesan cheese all over – it’ll melt into the nooks perfectly. Add the red pepper flakes now if you like a little heat. Serve immediately while they’re crazy crispy – they lose some magic if they sit too long!
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
After making these dozens of times (yes, I’m obsessed), here are my foolproof tips for perfect results every time:
- Size matters – Cut sprouts roughly the same size so they cook evenly (no tiny burnt ones alongside giant undercooked chunks!)
- Give them space – Overcrowding steams them instead of crisping – cook in batches if needed
- Shake it up – That mid-cook basket shake ensures all sides get golden and crispy
- Taste test – Ovens vary, so check a sprout at 12 minutes – you want tender inside with crispy edges
- Make it yours – Add extra garlic for punch or skip the red pepper if heat’s not your thing
Follow these simple tricks and you’ll get restaurant-quality sprouts right at home!
Variations for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these fun twists to keep things interesting! My personal favorite is tossing the finished sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze – the sweet-tangy contrast is unreal. Other easy upgrades:
- Bacon lovers – Toss in crispy crumbled bacon right before serving
- Lemon zest – Brighten it up with fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of juice
- Spicy honey – Drizzle with honey and extra red pepper flakes
- Everything bagel – Swap parmesan for everything bagel seasoning
The possibilities are endless – that’s the beauty of this versatile recipe! For another great veggie side, check out these air fryer green beans with gremolata.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These crispy sprouts are crazy versatile! I love them piled next to simple roasted chicken or seared salmon for an easy weeknight dinner. They’re also fantastic as a party appetizer – just stick toothpicks in them and watch them disappear. My kids even eat them straight from the basket while they’re still piping hot (careful – that cheese is molten!).
Storing and Reheating Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Leftovers? (I rarely have any!) Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to revive that crispiness, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. The microwave just makes them sad and soggy – trust me on this one.
Nutritional Information for Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Here’s the scoop on what you’re eating – and trust me, you’ll feel good about every crispy bite! Each serving (about 1/4 of the recipe) packs:
- 120 calories – Way less than fries for that same crispy satisfaction
- 7g fat (mostly the good kind from olive oil)
- 11g carbs – With 4g fiber to keep you full
- 5g protein – Not bad for a veggie side!
Of course, these numbers might shift slightly depending on your exact ingredients – especially if you go wild with extra parmesan (no judgment here!).
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
You can, but fresh is best! Frozen sprouts release more moisture and won’t get quite as crispy. If you must use frozen, thaw them first and pat super dry with paper towels. You might need to add a couple extra minutes to the cook time too.
How do I keep them from getting soggy?
The key is that single layer in the air fryer basket – overcrowding creates steam. Also, don’t skip preheating! And serve immediately – they lose crispness as they sit (though they’re still tasty).
Can I make these without parmesan?
Absolutely! They’re still delicious with just garlic and olive oil. For dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. My vegan friend swears by this swap. If you are looking for dairy-free alternatives, you can research options for vegan cheese substitutes.
Why are mine burning?
Every air fryer runs differently! Start checking at 10 minutes – smaller sprouts cook faster. If your model runs hot, try lowering the temp to 360°F and adding a minute or two.
Can I prep these ahead?
You can trim and halve the sprouts a day early, but wait to toss with oil and seasonings until right before cooking. The garlic can get bitter if it sits too long.
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts in 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts made in the air fryer for a quick and tasty side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Place sprouts in air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket halfway, until crispy.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
- Cut sprouts evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Adjust cook time based on your air fryer model.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: air fryer Brussels sprouts, garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts, crispy Brussels sprouts