Looking to make a delicious and healthy side dish that the whole family will love? These Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are the perfect combination of crispy, tender, and cheesy goodness. With their delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen and their rich flavor bursting in your mouth, they’re an irresistible addition to any meal. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this easy recipe!
What Is Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are a healthier twist on a classic side dish, utilizing the air fryer to achieve a delightful crunch without deep-frying. By tossing Brussels sprouts in olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, and air-frying them to perfection, you create a snack or side that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe embodies the warmth and coziness of family meals, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Convenient Cooking: The air fryer cooks these sprouts quickly while saving you time in the kitchen.
- Flavorful and Crispy: Enjoy the perfect crunch and a cheesy flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Easily swap in different seasonings and toppings to suit your family’s taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Brussels sprouts are affordable and packed with nutrients, making this dish a smart choice.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters might find themselves asking for seconds!
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Quick Overview
This recipe combines fresh Brussels sprouts with simple seasonings and Parmesan cheese, all cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer in just about 15 minutes. Your family will be begging for more!
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts (1 lb): Trimmed and halved.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For tossing to achieve a golden crisp.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a lovely savory flavor.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): For that delicious cheesy coating.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
Directions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half.
- Season: In a medium bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the seasoned Brussels sprouts and toss gently to coat.
- Cook: Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: They should be crispy and golden on the outside while tender on the inside. Adjust time if necessary based on your air fryer model.
- Serve: Once done, remove them from the air fryer and serve warm as a delicious side!
What to Serve With Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Main Dishes: Pair with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish for a complete meal.
- Side Salads: A fresh green salad complements the cheesy flavor nicely.
- Wine: Enjoy with a crisp white wine for a delightful evening.
- Occasions: Perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or casual weeknight meals!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Substitutions: Try different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a variation in flavor.
- Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Freshness: Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor; frozen sprouts may not yield the same results.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: While not recommended for optimal texture, you can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts for up to a month.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for this recipe to achieve the desired crispiness. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain well before cooking.
How spicy are these Brussels sprouts?
This recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you want a kick!
Can I prepare these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-trim and season the sprouts, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can roast the Brussels sprouts in an oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are not just delicious; they’re also simple to make and a hit with the entire family! The irresistible combination of flavors and textures will have everyone reaching for seconds. Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!