Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Brussels sprouts: These small green vegetables have a slightly bitter taste that becomes sweet and nutty when cooked.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the brussels sprouts crisp up in the air fryer.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, salty cheese that melts slightly and adds a rich, cheesy finish.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a little bit of heat and depth to the taste.

One of the most helpful tricks in this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe is how to get the brussels sprouts nice and crispy by shaking the basket halfway through cooking. Here’s how you do it:

1. When your air fryer has been running for about half the time (around 6 or 7 minutes), carefully pull out the basket.
2. Hold the basket firmly and give it a good shake or toss to move the brussels sprouts around. This helps them cook evenly on all sides.
3. Put the basket back in and finish cooking for the rest of the time.

Shaking the basket is a simple step, but it makes a big difference. Without it, some brussels sprouts might stay soggy or burn on one side while others don’t get crispy. Moving them around lets the hot air reach every part, so they turn golden brown and crunchy all over. Plus, it stops them from sticking to the basket, which means less mess and easier cleanup.

When I first tried this recipe, I forgot to shake the basket and ended up with some brussels sprouts that were burnt on one side and soft on the other. It wasn’t as tasty or pretty! Now, I always set a timer to remind myself to shake the basket halfway through. It’s a little step that makes the whole dish better and more fun to eat. If you want to save time, you can even shake the basket a couple of times during cooking, but just be gentle so the brussels sprouts don’t fly out.

Give it a try next time you make this recipe—you’ll notice the difference right away!

• brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and can be roasted to achieve a similar crispy exterior and tender interior.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great alternative for roasting.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlic flavor, though it is less pungent than fresh garlic.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good option for those avoiding dairy.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture, so use sparingly.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor profile, though it is slightly milder and less pungent.

• Allow the freshly cooked brussels sprouts to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy when stored.

• Transfer the cooled brussels sprouts into an airtight container. If you have a lot, consider using multiple containers to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven texture.

• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The brussels sprouts will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes to regain their crispiness.

• For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Spread the cooled brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This flash-freezing method prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the brussels sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• When you're ready to eat the frozen brussels sprouts, do not thaw them. Instead, place them directly in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• If you wish to add a fresh sprinkle of parmesan cheese after reheating, it can enhance the flavor and texture, giving them a freshly made taste.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Cover them loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior while ensuring the garlic and parmesan flavors remain vibrant.

• Air Fryer Method: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the brussels sprouts back in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. Reheat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will help restore their original crispiness and keep the parmesan cheese deliciously melty.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover brussels sprouts. Stir occasionally, allowing them to reheat evenly for about 5-8 minutes. This method is quick and helps maintain the garlic aroma while adding a touch of extra crispiness.

• Microwave Method: Place the brussels sprouts in a microwave-safe dish. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. While this method is the quickest, it may slightly soften the sprouts, so it's best for when you're in a hurry.

• Air fryer: A countertop appliance that circulates hot air to cook food, giving it a crispy texture similar to frying without the need for excessive oil.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine ingredients evenly, ensuring the Brussels sprouts are well-coated with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure small quantities of ingredients like salt and pepper accurately.

• Measuring cup: A tool used to measure the grated parmesan cheese, ensuring the right amount is added to the dish.

• Knife: A sharp tool used to trim and halve the Brussels sprouts for even cooking.

• Cutting board: A flat surface used to safely chop and prepare the Brussels sprouts and garlic.

• Garlic press: An optional tool to mince garlic quickly and efficiently, enhancing the flavor of the dish.

• Serving bowl: A dish used to present the finished Brussels sprouts, making them easy to serve and enjoy.

Preheat efficiently: Start preheating the air fryer while you prepare the brussels sprouts to save time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Batch cooking: If you have a larger air fryer, double the recipe and cook in batches to save time for future meals.

Quick clean-up: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleaning.

Parmesan prep: Use pre-grated parmesan cheese to eliminate grating time.