Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

I still remember the first time I made these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts. So, there I was, fresh-faced with my brand new air fryer, just itching to test it out. Growing up, I’d dodge Brussels sprouts like they were the plague, honestly. But garlic and Parmesan? Now that’s a game changer. I tossed those little sprouts in a slick of olive oil, a heap of minced garlic, and a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan. When they hit that air fryer, the kitchen filled with this heavenly aroma—it was like a warm hug for my senses. Seriously, if you could bottle that smell and sell it, you’d be a millionaire! The sprouts came out all crispy and golden on the outside while still being tender inside. It was like they were saying, "Hey, give us a chance!" These beauties have since become a go-to side dish in our house. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a big holiday spread, they always steal the show. If you haven't tried making Brussels sprouts this way yet, you're missing out. Trust me, you might just discover a new favorite dish that'll leave you wondering why you ever avoided them in the first place.

❤️ Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes.
• Crispy and flavorful, without the need for frying.
• Packed with nutrients, making them a healthy option.
• Perfect for meal prep or as a last-minute side dish.
• The garlic and Parmesan combo is simply irresistible.
• Great for both adults and kids, even those who usually shy away from Brussels sprouts.

🥘 Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil — or avocado oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated — plus extra for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon salt — to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes — optional, for heat
• 1 lemon zested and juiced — for freshness

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Begin by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water, trimming the ends and slicing them in half. This ensures they cook evenly.

   Make sure to remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until the sprouts are well coated.

   Use your hands for better mixing, but be careful not to bruise the sprouts.
3. 3

   Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps achieve that nice crispiness.

   Don't skip the preheating; it's essential for even cooking.
4. 4

   Carefully place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.

   If needed, cook in batches for the best results.
5. 5

   Air fry the Brussels sprouts for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. They should be golden and crispy.

   Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
6. 6

   Once done, remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and immediately toss them with the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.

   This adds a lovely tang and helps the cheese stick.
7. 7

   Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and lemon zest if desired.

   They are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven.

💡 Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the oil mixture.
• Pair with a dipping sauce like aioli or ranch for an added twist.
• To make these a complete meal, add cooked chicken or shrimp to the air fryer.
• Experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste; it can be more or less according to preference.

🔄 Variations

• Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving for a sweet touch.
• Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts: Toss with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy kick.
• Spicy Chipotle Brussels Sprouts: Add chipotle powder or sauce to the oil mixture for a smoky heat.
• Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Incorporate cooked bacon pieces and a splash of maple syrup for a sweet-savory flavor.

📦 Storage Instructions

📊 Nutrition Information

❓ Frequently Asked Questions