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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe Perfect with Balsamic Glaze

crispy air fryer brussels sprouts - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy Brussels sprouts cooked in an air fryer and finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or snack, this recipe delivers a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 grams) of fresh Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise. Pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel to ensure crispiness. (About 10 minutes)
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated. (5 minutes)
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes.
  4. Place the sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow air circulation. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through to brown evenly. Look for a golden-brown color and crispy edges. (12-15 minutes)
  5. While the sprouts cook, pour ¼ cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon brown sugar into a small saucepan. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture reduces by half and becomes syrupy. Watch closely to prevent burning. (8-10 minutes)
  6. Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the top and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately for the best crispy texture and flavor. (2-3 minutes)

Notes

Dry Brussels sprouts thoroughly before air frying to ensure crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Shake or toss the sprouts halfway through cooking for even browning. Watch the balsamic glaze carefully while reducing to prevent burning. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to regain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, air fryer, balsamic glaze, crispy, quick recipe, vegan, gluten-free, healthy side dish