Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts (Easy Recipe)

These Air Fryer Brussels sprouts will completely change your mind about the misunderstood veg!

I promise that even the kids will reach for seconds after one bite of these tantalizing little tidbits.

I’ve always enjoyed sprouts, but I understand why some people hate them. After all, if they’re not cooked right, they can be a little lackluster.

But these are Brussels sprouts like you’ve never had before! They’re crispy, crunchy, and golden brown on the outside and tender and creamy in the middle.

The textures are terrific, but the flavors are completely addictive, thanks to the luscious dressing.

The mix of olive oil, maple syrup, and salt and pepper gives them a sweet, salty, and umami-rich taste that I know you’ll love.

But that’s not all! There’s a dipping sauce too!

Made with mayo, maple syrup, and mustard, it takes these Air Fryer Brussel sprouts to the next level.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

If you’re having trouble getting kids to appreciate Brussels sprouts, this recipe is for you.

First of all, thanks to the Air Fryer, these sprouts will cook in no time – just 10-12 minutes and they’re all set!

Next, let’s talk about the texture.

Where poorly cooked Brussels sprouts are mushy, soggy, and downright disappointing, these have the perfect balance of crunchiness and creaminess.

They’re flavored flawlessly, too. The sweet and savory coating and the mayo-mustard dip mask that vegetal taste beautifully.

Trust me; if you stick to this recipe, you won’t ever have leftover Brussels sprouts again.

Ingredients

• Brussels Sprouts are obviously the star of the dish. So, try to get sprouts that are more or less the same size, so they cook evenly.
  • If some are larger than others, slice them in half. 
  • Be sure to rinse them well and pat them dry.
  • Cut off the stems and peel off the outer leaves.
• Maple Syrup – Use it to sweeten both the dressing and the dip.
• Olive Oil – Coating the Brussels sprouts with just a little bit of olive oil enhances their flavor and gives them a crispy, crunchy exterior. 
• Kosher Salt – A little bit of saltiness to balance out the maple sugar.
• Ground Black Pepper – For a bit of a kick.
• Mayonnaise – The main component of the dip. You can always count on mayo to make the best creamy sauces.
• Stone-Ground Mustard – It adds a nice tang that balances out the mayo and maple syrup.

How to Cook Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Brussel sprouts. 

Rinse the sprouts and pat dry with paper towels. Trim off the stems and peel 1-2 layers of outer leaves. 

Slice large sprouts in half. The goal is to make them bite-sized and even.

Step 2: Make the dressing.

Whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the Brussels sprouts to coat.

Step 3: Air Fry the Brussels sprouts.

Place them in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Otherwise, they won’t crisp up.

Cook in batches if necessary.

Air Fry the sprouts for 4 minutes, then shake the basket. This will ensure all sides of the sprouts get that nice char.

Cook the sprouts for 4-6 minutes more.

The length of cooking may vary depending on the size of your Air Fryer and its wattage. So keep a close eye on the sprouts, especially during the last few minutes of cooking.

You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown on the outside and fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the dipping sauce.

While the sprouts are cooking, whisk together maple syrup, mayo, and mustard.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy!

You can either serve the sauce as a dip or use it to coat the cooked Brussels sprouts. 

I like them coated, which you can do just by tossing them in a big bowl like salad.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Buy similar-sized Brussels sprouts, so they cook evenly. Cut any larger sprouts in half.
• There’s no need to soak the Brussels sprouts in water before you Air Fry them – this will actually be counterproductive. The water will create steam during cooking, preventing the sprouts from browning and crisping up. Instead, just trim the edges and peel off the outer leaves.
• Do not overcrowd the Air Fryer basket, or the hot air won’t circulate properly. Instead, arrange the sprouts in a single layer, and don’t let them overlap. Cook in batches if you have to.
• Shake the basket halfway through. This is to ensure the Brussels sprouts are cooked on all sides.

How to Store Brussels Sprouts

Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 days.

You can also freeze these sprouts – stored in freezer-safe containers – for up to 3 months.

Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat refrigerated sprouts in the Air Fryer for 2 to 3 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I Air Fry Frozen Brussels Sprouts?

Yes. Air Fry frozen sprouts at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

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