The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Your New Secret Weapon
Remember the boiled, mushy, and frankly forgettable Brussels sprouts of your childhood? It’s time to erase that memory completely. Today, we are transforming this humble vegetable into a show-stopping, gourmet side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The secret? Your air fryer and a few simple, powerful ingredients. This recipe for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts is a masterclass in texture and flavor.
The high-heat circulation of the air fryer works miracles, creating irresistibly crispy Brussels sprouts. With deeply caramelized edges, while the inside remains tender. Tossed with savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a touch of herbs, these are not just a side dish—they are the main event.
🟢 Check Our Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks: Crispy, Juicy, and Ready in 25 Minutes
Whether you’re looking for an impressive accompaniment for a holiday feast or a quick, easy vegetable side to elevate a weeknight chicken dinner. This recipe delivers elegance and ease in equal measure. Let’s turn the most underestimated vegetable into the star of your table.
The Alchemy of the Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts In The Air Fryer
Why does the air fryer produce such exceptional results? It’s all about science and efficiency. The rapid air technology creates an environment that is perfect for achieving the Maillard reaction. That complex chemical process responsible for the beautiful browning and deep, savory flavors we associate with perfectly roasted vegetables.
Unlike oven-roasting, which can sometimes steam vegetables if overcrowded. The air fryer’s compact space and powerful fan ensure each sprout is enveloped in hot, dry air. This method requires significantly less oil than traditional roasting, making it a healthier approach without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. It’s the ultimate quick air fryer recipe for a reason.
🟢 You Will Also Love Air Fryer Zucchini Fries: Because You Can’t Eat Just One
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor – these Brussels sprouts are tossed in garlic, olive oil, and parmesan for the ultimate side dish!
Rate This Recipe
Turn On Cooking Mode 💡
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon zest optional, for brightness
Instructions
- Remove any loose or brown outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Trim the stem ends and slice each sprout in half through the stem so the cut side will caramelize evenly.
- Pat the halved sprouts dry with a kitchen towel or paper towel — removing surface moisture helps them crisp in the air fryer.
- In a large mixing bowl combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the halved sprouts and toss thoroughly so each piece is lightly coated with oil and garlic.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Arrange sprouts in the basket in a single layer with the cut-side down if possible — do not overcrowd. Work in batches if required.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket gently at the 6-minute mark. After the first cook, check for golden brown edges and crispness; if needed, cook an extra 2–3 minutes until desired char and tenderness are achieved.
- When done, immediately transfer sprouts to the mixing bowl, sprinkle with grated parmesan and lemon zest (if using), and toss to coat so the cheese melts slightly from the residual heat.
- Serve hot as a side with roast meats, pasta, or on their own as a snack.
Notes
🔹 Use small-to-medium sprouts for best caramelization; very large sprouts can be quartered.
🔹 Don’t overcrowd the basket — air circulation is key for crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.
🔹 For extra crispness spray a light coating of oil halfway through cooking.
🔹 Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
🔹 To make dairy-free, skip parmesan and finish with toasted breadcrumbs and a squeeze of lemon.
🔹 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to refresh crispness.
🔹 Serve with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSodium: 350mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 6mg
Tried this recipe? how it was!
Selecting and Preparing Your Sprouts for Success
The foundation of any great dish is quality ingredients. For the best Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, seek out firm, bright green sprouts that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. Avoid any that are yellowing or have loose leaves.
Preparation is key. Trimming the stem end and removing any tired outer leaves is essential. Then, don’t be shy—cut them in half. This creates a flat surface that will press directly against the air fryer basket, leading to that coveted golden-brown sear. This flat surface also acts as a canvas for the oil and seasonings to cling to, guaranteeing every bite is packed with flavor.
The Flavor Foundation: Garlic & Parmesan
While the sprouts themselves are magnificent simply roasted with salt and pepper, the addition of garlic and Parmesan catapults them into another dimension. For the best garlic flavor, fresh is best. Minced fresh garlic will toast and become fragrant in the hot air fryer, infusing the sprouts with its aroma.
As for the Parmesan, use a microplane or the fine side of a box grater. Finely grated cheese will melt into a delicate, crispy crust that coats the sprouts, pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as seamlessly. The result is a salty, umami-rich finish that is utterly irresistible.
🟢 Also Check Out 👇
Air Fryer Tandoori Aloo / Spiced Baby Potatoes – Crispy, Flavorful, and Guilt-Free
Pairing Your Gourmet Sprouts
These sprouts are incredibly versatile. Their robust flavor profile makes them an ideal partner for a wide range of mains:
- With Roasted Chicken: A classic and elegant pairing.
- Alongside a Steak: The savory sprouts complement a rich, juicy steak perfectly.
- With Pasta: Toss any leftovers into a creamy pasta for a flavorful boost.
- As a Holiday Side: They will effortlessly steal the show on your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
