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crispy garlic Brussels sprouts on white plate
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Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

These air fryer Brussel sprouts (with optional maple balsamic glaze) are crispy on the outside and lightly caramelized, with a tender middle! They're simple to prepare, quick (in under 25 minutes), and make for a delicious and nutritious side for the holidays or a mid-week meal!
Course Appetizer, Side
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 3

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1/4 tsp (heaped) each of salt and black pepper
  • 1 small head of garlic

Maple balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions

  • You can watch the video in the post for visual instructions.
    Remove any brownish outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts and trim off the long ends. Cut the sprouts in half (lengthwise) and add them to a medium-large bowl.
  • Drizzle them with oil and stir in salt and black pepper. Transfer the sprouts to your air fryer basket (I recommend spraying the basket with a little cooking spray).
    Check the recipe notes below for the oven method.
  • Slice off the top of the head of garlic, brush it with a little oil and wrap it in a piece of aluminium foil. Add the wrapped garlic to the air fryer basket.
  • Cook at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, and shake the air fryer basket after 8-10 minutes.
  • While the Brussels sprouts and garlic cook, make the optional maple balsamic glaze by adding all ingredients to a small saucepan. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the glaze cool to thicken.
  • After 15 minutes, remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer basket and continue to cook the garlic for 5 more minutes. Let it cool and then mash it with a fork.
  • Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with the balsamic glaze and add some of the mashed garlic. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Oven method: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and transfer the Brussels sprouts (and garlic) to a baking sheet, lined with parchment paper. Roast them for about 30-40 minutes, or until nicely browned. Depending on your oven, the cooking time may vary.
  • Garlic: If you cook the garlic in the air fryer without aluminium foil, it will take just 10 minutes, however, it will turn out drier and not as soft.
  • If you prefer more tender Brussels sprouts: To avoid burning the crispy brussels sprouts while still having a tender (slightly less chewy) middle, you can soak them in water for 10 to 15 minutes before air frying them. Alternatively, you can par-boil them. Pat them thoroughly dry before seasoning/cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Amount per Serving
Calories
144
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
5
g
8
%
Saturated Fat
 
1
g
5
%
Carbohydrates
 
22
g
7
%
Fiber
 
6
g
24
%
Sugar
 
11
g
12
%
Protein
 
5
g
10
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.