Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you’re craving a tasty and healthy side dish, look no further! My Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts recipe is your perfect solution. With crispy edges and savory garlic flavor, these sprouts are a game-changer for any meal. Plus, they’re quick to whip up using just a few simple ingredients. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
The main ingredients are key to the flavor. Brussels sprouts have a nice crunch. Olive oil adds moisture and helps with cooking. Garlic gives a strong, tasty kick.
Seasonings
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Seasonings bring the dish to life. Salt enhances the taste. Black pepper adds warmth. Red pepper flakes give a little heat, if you want it.
Toppings
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Toppings are the final touch. Parmesan cheese melts and creates a nice crust. Lemon juice brightens flavors. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to your plate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step takes about 5 minutes. Preheating helps cook the Brussels sprouts evenly and makes them crispy.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, combine these ingredients:
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Toss everything well. Make sure each sprout gets coated in the oil and seasonings. This adds flavor and helps achieve that golden crisp.
Cooking Process
Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer. This helps them crisp up nicely. You might need to cook them in batches if your fryer is small.
Air fry the Brussels sprouts for 10-12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures even crisping on all sides.
Adding the Cheese
Once the sprouts are golden and crispy, sprinkle on 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Return the basket to the air fryer for an extra 2 minutes. This lets the cheese melt and become slightly crispy, adding a delicious finish.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Maximum Crispiness
To get the best crunch, always cook the Brussels sprouts in a single layer. This step is key. If they overlap, they won’t crisp up well. I recommend frying them in batches if your air fryer is small.
Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps too. It moves the sprouts around, ensuring they cook evenly. This simple trick is very effective for great results.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder. These can add a nice twist. If you want a kick, try more red pepper flakes.
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use other cheeses. Feta or pecorino can work well too. Feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your taste.
Air Fryer Tips
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for this recipe. It’s the perfect temperature for crispiness. Cooking time is around 10-12 minutes, but check for golden color.
For better results, I recommend reliable air fryer models like the Philips or Ninja. They cook evenly and are easy to use. Having a good air fryer makes a big difference in your cooking.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily switch up the flavor of your Brussels sprouts. Adding spices can change everything. Try smoked paprika for a warm, smoky taste. Garlic powder gives a nice punch too. If you want some crunch, nuts or seeds work well. Chopped almonds or sunflower seeds add texture and flavor.
Cheese Alternatives
If you want to mix it up, try different cheeses. Feta cheese adds a tangy taste that contrasts well with the sprouts. Pecorino cheese is another great choice. It has a strong flavor that pairs nicely with the garlic.
Vegan Option
Want to make this dish vegan? It’s simple! Just swap out the cheese for nutritional yeast. This gives a cheesy flavor without using dairy. Vegan cheese can also work well. Just make sure to check the package for melting instructions.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. Allow the sprouts to cool completely before sealing them. They can stay good for about three days in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your Brussels sprouts while keeping them crispy, use the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the sprouts in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method revives their crunchiness and prevents sogginess.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts, but they may lose some texture. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Use them within three months for best quality. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I make Brussels sprouts crispy in an air fryer?
To make Brussels sprouts crispy, follow these key tips:
– Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts have more moisture, which helps them crisp up.
– Cut them evenly: Halving each sprout helps them cook at the same rate.
– Toss with oil: Use olive oil to coat the sprouts. This helps them crisp and adds flavor.
– Don’t overcrowd the basket: Place sprouts in a single layer. Air needs room to circulate for crispiness.
– Shake halfway through: This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but fresh is better. Here’s how to use them:
– Thaw first: Thaw frozen sprouts in the fridge or microwave before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
– Dry them well: Pat them with a towel to remove excess moisture. This prevents sogginess.
– Adjust cooking time: Frozen sprouts may need a bit longer to cook. Check for crispness.
What to serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Here are some great options:
– Grilled chicken: The savory flavor complements the sprouts well.
– Pasta: Toss the sprouts with pasta for a hearty meal.
– Steak or pork: The rich flavors of meat balance the bright taste of the sprouts.
– Quinoa or rice: Add a healthy grain for a filling side.
Feel free to mix and match based on what you like!
In this blog post, we explored how to make crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts. We covered key ingredients, from sprouts to seasonings, and step-by-step cooking tips. I shared ways to enhance flavors, suggested variations, and provided storage and reheating tips.
Try these methods and make Brussels sprouts a fun side dish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings to fit your taste. You’ll find that crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts can be easy and quick to make. Happy cooking!
