Looking for a tasty side dish that’s both easy and delicious? Try my Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts! With simple ingredients like fresh Brussels sprouts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you’ll have an irresistible dish in no time. Not only are they crunchy and packed with flavor, but they also add a healthy twist to any meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and make veggie lovers out of anyone!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: About 180
– Total fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Protein: 5g
Brussels sprouts are tiny powerhouses of flavor and nutrition. They pack a punch with many vitamins and minerals. When you roast them in an air fryer, they turn crispy and brown. This method keeps them tender inside, too.
Using olive oil adds healthy fats. Garlic gives a nice kick. Parmesan cheese brings richness that makes these sprouts irresistible. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, giving a unique twist.
Each serving has around 180 calories. This makes it a great side dish. They are low in carbs, too, with just 10 grams per serving. You also get 5 grams of protein!
With these ingredients, you can make a tasty dish. Don’t forget the parsley! It adds color and fresh flavor to the dish. You will love serving these crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts at your next meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step takes about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the sprouts cook evenly and get that nice crisp.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove dirt. Trim the ends and remove any outer leaves that look bad. Cut each sprout in half. This size helps them cook faster and get crispy.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together well. You want each sprout to be coated in the oil and spices.
Next, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss again to make sure the cheese sticks to the sprouts. The cheese will add a great flavor and help crisp them up.
Cooking Process
Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have a lot, cook them in batches. This helps them get crispy. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This ensures even cooking. They should turn golden brown and be nice and crispy when done. Once cooked, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get super crispy Brussels sprouts, cook them in a single layer. If they stack up, they won’t crisp well. It’s best to cook them in batches if needed. Another great tip is to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps them cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown color.
Elevating Flavor
Want to take your Brussels sprouts to the next level? Try adding more spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick. You could also mix in some dried thyme or rosemary for an earthy touch. These small changes can make a big difference in flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Serve them as a side to grilled chicken or fish. You can also dip them in garlic aioli or ranch dressing for extra flavor. Try them with a squeeze of lemon on top for a fresh twist. Enjoy exploring different ways to serve this tasty dish!
Variations
Alternative Seasonings
You can change the flavor of your Brussels sprouts easily. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes. This will give your dish a spicy kick. Just a pinch or two can make a big difference.
For a more herbaceous taste, try rosemary or thyme. Both herbs pair well with the garlic and cheese. Chop fresh herbs finely and mix them in with the oil and seasonings. This adds depth and freshness to your dish.
Add-ins and Mix-ins
Feel free to get creative with your Brussels sprouts. You can add other veggies like carrots or bell peppers. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
If you want more protein, consider adding cooked chicken or bacon bits. They will add flavor and make this dish more filling. Mix the add-ins with the Brussels sprouts before air frying for a tasty medley.
Dietary Adjustments
You can adapt this recipe for special diets easily. For a gluten-free option, ensure your seasoning blends are gluten-free. Most spices are naturally gluten-free, but check the labels.
To make it vegan, skip the Parmesan cheese. You can use nutritional yeast instead for a cheesy flavor. It will give you that umami taste without the dairy.
If you follow a keto diet, the recipe is already great! Just ensure your other add-ins are low in carbs. This way, you can enjoy a healthy, crispy side dish without worry.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Place a paper towel in the container. This helps absorb excess moisture. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, eat them fresh.
Reheating Tips
To reheat Brussels sprouts, use an air fryer for the best results. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Heat the sprouts for about 5 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to keep them crispy. You can also use an oven. Place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze Brussels sprouts, first, cook them until tender but not fully crispy. Let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I make air fryer Brussels sprouts crispy?
To make air fryer Brussels sprouts crispy, follow these tips:
– Use fresh Brussels sprouts: They have more moisture than frozen ones.
– Cut them in half: This increases the surface area, allowing for more crispiness.
– Coat well: Mix them with olive oil and seasonings for a good layer.
– Avoid overcrowding: Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and better air circulation.
– Shake the basket: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to help them cook evenly.
These steps make a big difference. Cooking at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes gives the best results. They should come out golden brown and crunchy.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but fresh ones are better. Frozen sprouts often have more water, which can make them soggy. If you use frozen, thaw them first and pat dry. This helps keep them crispy.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan cheese, here are some options:
– Pecorino Romano: This cheese has a similar texture and a stronger flavor.
– Nutritional yeast: A great vegan option that adds a cheesy taste.
– Grated mozzarella: It melts well but lacks the sharp taste of Parmesan.
– Grana Padano: This cheese is similar to Parmesan but milder.
Feel free to choose what suits your taste and diet!
In this post, I covered how to make delicious air fryer Brussels sprouts. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for maximum flavor and crispiness. Remember, you can tweak the recipe with spices or add veggies for variety. Proper storage and reheating methods keep leftovers tasty. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Brussels sprouts as a snack or side dish. With these insights, you can impress anyone at your table with an easy, healthy treat.
