If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet irresistible side dish, this Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with bold flavors from garlic, onion powder, and salty parmesan, these brussel sprouts are transformed from humble veggie to crave-worthy snack or side in just 25 minutes. The air fryer ensures they get perfectly roasted with minimal oil, making this recipe deliciously healthy but totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding four or just treating yourself, this dish delivers a crowd-pleasing punch every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making these parmesan-coated brussel sprouts sing. Each item plays an important role, from the crispy texture the olive oil creates to the savory notes the parmesan adds. The simplicity of this list means no complicated runs to the store or exotic items—just pantry staples and fresh veggies that come together in harmony.
- 1 pound brussel sprouts: The star of the dish, fresh and trimmed for the perfect bite size.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a crispy, golden finish while keeping the sprouts tender inside.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle but essential depth of flavor without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile and complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and to bring out the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: The golden, nutty finish that makes these brussel sprouts unforgettable.
- Optional: lemon zest: A bright, fresh twist you can sprinkle over for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Trim Your Brussel Sprouts
Start by washing your brussel sprouts under cold running water to get rid of any dirt hiding in those little leaves. Pat them dry thoroughly; this step helps the olive oil adhere better and ensures maximum crispiness. Then, carefully trim the tough ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise so they cook evenly and get a nice sear in the air fryer.
Step 2: Toss in Seasonings and Oil
Place your halved brussel sprouts into a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything briskly until each piece is well-coated in oil and spices—this seasoning blend is the backbone of the dish’s irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
To achieve that perfect roast, preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (about 193 degrees Celsius). Allowing the air fryer to heat for 3 to 5 minutes ensures the sprouts will start crisping right when they go in, locking in flavors and texture.
Step 4: Air Fry Your Brussels
Lay the seasoned brussel sprouts evenly in a single layer inside the air fryer basket; crowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Cook them for 12 to 15 minutes total, shaking the basket halfway to promote even cooking on all sides—this step is key to avoid burnt spots and get that iconic golden color.
Step 5: Add Parmesan in the Final Minutes
Two minutes before the timer goes off, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the hot sprouts. Let the cheese melt and slightly crisp to add a deliciously salty, nutty layer that perfectly complements the caramelized edges of the brussel sprouts.
Step 6: Serve and Optional Finish
Once the cooking is done, carefully remove the brussel sprouts from the air fryer and transfer them to your serving dish. For an extra touch of brightness, zest some lemon over the top—it balances the richness of parmesan beautifully and adds a fresh pop that elevates the entire dish.
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil over these parmesan-enhanced brussel sprouts adds a vibrant green color and fresh herbal notes. A little drizzle of balsamic glaze can also bring a sweet tang that pairs wonderfully with the salty parmesan crust.
Side Dishes
These Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe favorites make a fantastic side for grilled chicken, steak, or fish, brightening up any protein-centered plate. Alternatively, serve them alongside mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa for a comforting, well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning these into a warm salad by tossing with cooked bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, and dried cranberries. Or use them as a crispy topping on creamy risotto or pasta dishes to add texture and flavor complexity. Their versatility means you can get creative with how you serve them on your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay tasty for up to three days, making them perfect for quick reheats or lunchboxes.
Freezing
While it’s best to enjoy these sprouts fresh for the crispiest texture, you can freeze cooked portions by spreading them out on a baking tray to flash freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To bring back that irresistible crisp, reheat leftover brussel sprouts in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 5 minutes. This method revives their crunch far better than a microwave, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen brussel sprouts for this Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe?
Fresh brussel sprouts work best for achieving crispy results in the air fryer. Frozen sprouts tend to release extra moisture and may steam rather than crisp, but if that’s all you have, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer for this recipe?
Yes, preheating the air fryer ensures your brussel sprouts start cooking at the right temperature immediately, which helps them roast evenly and develop that gorgeous caramelized crust.
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
For a similar nutty, salty finish, you can substitute with pecorino romano or asiago cheese. Just make sure to grate it finely so it melts well during cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the parmesan cheese for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to maintain that savory, cheesy flavor without any dairy.
How spicy is this dish?
This Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe has a mild, comforting flavor profile with just a hint of black pepper for warmth—not spicy at all. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes if you want some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts Recipe is pure magic—a quick, healthy, and downright delicious way to enjoy your veggies. I promise once you try this method, you’ll never look at brussel sprouts the same way again. Grab your air fryer, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to something crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible today!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Brussel Sprouts roasted to perfection with garlic and onion powder, then topped with savory grated parmesan cheese and an optional hint of fresh lemon zest for added flavor. A quick and easy side dish ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for a healthy and tasty addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Brussel Sprouts
- 1 pound brussel sprouts
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Optional: lemon zest (for added flavor)
Instructions
- Preparation: Start by washing the brussel sprouts thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure they air fry properly.
- Trim and Slice: Trim the ends off each brussel sprout and slice them in half lengthwise for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the halved brussel sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring every sprout is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes to get it ready for cooking the sprouts evenly and quickly.
- Arrange in Basket: Place the seasoned brussel sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding to allow hot air circulation for even crisping.
- Air Fry: Cook the brussel sprouts for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get crispy and golden brown.
- Add Parmesan: In the last 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the brussel sprouts so it melts and adds a rich, savory flavor.
- Serve: Once done, carefully remove the brussel sprouts from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
- Optional Garnish: If desired, zest some fresh lemon over the top to add a bright, citrusy contrast to the rich parmesan flavor.
Notes
- Ensure brussel sprouts are dried well after washing to avoid sogginess during air frying.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for best crispiness; cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; you can add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.
- Lemon zest is optional but highly recommended for fresh flavor contrast.
