Are you ready to transform your Brussels sprouts into a tasty delight? My Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe will do just that! With crispy exteriors, a savory touch of garlic, and the rich flavor of Parmesan, these sprouted gems are a must-try. In this article, I’ll share my favorite ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to make your cooking experience easy and fun. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and convenient side dish.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic, Parmesan, and smoked paprika elevates the natural taste of Brussels sprouts to a whole new level.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy addition to any meal.
- Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer ensures the Brussels sprouts come out crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels sprouts are easy to make. This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you need.
The main ingredient is Brussels sprouts. They are small, green, and packed with nutrients. Start with one pound. Trim off the ends and cut them in half for even cooking.
Next, you’ll need olive oil. Three tablespoons will help the sprouts get crispy. Then, grab four cloves of garlic. Mince them finely to add a strong flavor.
For seasonings, gather some garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Each of these brings a unique taste. Use one teaspoon of each. Don’t forget salt and pepper to season the mix.
Finally, we have the star topping: grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a creamy richness. You’ll need half a cup for a tasty finish.
If you want to add color, freshly chopped parsley makes a lovely garnish. It brings freshness and a pop of green to the dish. Now you have the ingredients ready. Let’s make these delightful Brussels sprouts shine!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This takes about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get crispy.
2. Washing and trimming Brussels sprouts: While the air fryer heats, wash 1 pound of Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This step is key for even cooking. Halved sprouts get nice and crispy.
Mixing Ingredients
1. Combining Brussels sprouts with seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well so the sprouts are evenly coated.
2. Incorporating Parmesan cheese: Next, sprinkle half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the bowl. Stir gently to mix. The cheese adds a rich flavor that makes these sprouts delightful.
Cooking Instructions
1. Air frying technique: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them. This helps each sprout crisp up nicely.
2. Ensuring even cooking and crispiness: Air fry the sprouts for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket to ensure even cooking. When done, they should be golden and crispy on the outside. Remove them from the air fryer and sprinkle the rest of the Parmesan cheese on top while they are still hot. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To get the best taste from your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, use fresh ingredients. Fresh Brussels sprouts have a crisp texture and a bright flavor. They make your dish pop!
When it comes to seasoning, adjust to your preference. Start with the basic amounts, then taste as you go. You can add more salt or garlic powder if you like stronger flavors. Trust your taste buds!
Cooking Tips
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer. When you pile in too many Brussels sprouts, they won’t cook evenly. This can lead to soggy spots. Instead, arrange them in a single layer. This way, each sprout gets hot air and crisps up nicely.
I recommend cooking at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket. This helps all sides cook evenly and turn golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts pair well with many main dishes. Try them alongside grilled chicken or steak for a full meal. The savory flavors blend well together.
For a fun twist, add sauces or dips on the side. A tangy balsamic glaze or a creamy ranch dip can elevate the dish. Experiment with what you love, and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid those that are yellowing or have blemishes.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For maximum crispiness, ensure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer in the air fryer. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings beyond garlic and Parmesan. Try adding lemon zest or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the Brussels sprouts right after air frying. They can lose their crispiness if left out too long.
Variations
Alternative Seasonings
You can change the flavors of your Brussels sprouts in fun ways. Try adding lemon zest for a bright taste. You can also use Italian herbs like oregano or thyme. If you like spice, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. These will give your dish a nice kick. For a smoky flavor, try chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika. Just remember to taste as you go!
Vegetable Mix-ins
Brussels sprouts pair well with other veggies. You can mix in cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers. These add color and texture. Try adding sweet potatoes for a hearty option. You can also make a mixed veggie air fryer dish. Just cut all veggies to similar sizes to cook evenly. If you enjoy this recipe, check out my roasted veggie medley for more ideas!
Dietary Adjustments
If you're vegan, you can still enjoy this dish. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also find vegan Parmesan at stores. For gluten-free eaters, this recipe is safe as it uses no gluten ingredients. Just be sure to check labels on any packaged items. Enjoy your delicious Brussels sprouts without worry!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels sprouts fresh, follow these tips:
- Cool them down: Let the Brussels sprouts cool to room temperature before storing.
- Use airtight containers: Place the sprouts in a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. This helps prevent moisture loss.
- Keep in the fridge: Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, you want to keep them crispy. Here are some techniques:
- Air fryer method: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This maintains the crunch.
- Microwave caution: If using the microwave, place them on a paper towel. This helps absorb extra moisture, but they may not stay crispy.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is an option. Follow these steps:
- Cool and package: Let the cooked Brussels sprouts cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label and date: Write the date on the bag. This helps you remember when you froze them.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
FAQs
How long do I air fry Brussels sprouts?
Air frying Brussels sprouts takes about 12 to 15 minutes. If you like them crispy, aim for 15 minutes. If you prefer them tender, check them at 12 minutes. Always shake the basket halfway through for even cooking. This helps them cook well and get that nice crunch.
Can I make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep Brussels sprouts ahead of time. Trim and halve them earlier in the day. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container. You can also cook them in advance, let them cool, and store them. They stay fresh for up to three days. Just reheat them in the air fryer for about five minutes to regain crispiness.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Try serving them with grilled chicken or salmon for a nice protein boost. They also go well with pasta dishes or a hearty grain like quinoa. For a tasty twist, add them to a salad for extra flavor and crunch.
In this post, we explored how to make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. You learned about the core ingredients like Brussels sprouts, olive oil, and garlic, along with effective seasoning tips. I shared step-by-step instructions for perfect cooking in the air fryer. Remember to adjust flavors to suit your taste, and consider variations for new ideas. Now, go ahead and enjoy these delicious sprouts. They’re easy to make and a great side for any meal!
