Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Garlic and Honey
↓ Jump to RecipeDiscover how to make crispy air-fried Brussels sprouts with garlic, lemon, and honey. A healthy, flavorful side dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep 15 min
- Cook 30 min
- 4 servings
- Side Dish
Table of contents
There is nothing quite like a perfectly roasted Brussels sprout that manages to be crispy-edged while remaining tender on the inside. This air fryer recipe transforms the humble vegetable into a crowd-pleaser that balances savory and sweet notes. By using a combination of smoky paprika, zesty lemon, and a hint of honey, you create a complex flavor profile that will win over even the most hesitant vegetable skeptics at your family dinner table.
This vibrant side dish is the perfect companion for a roast chicken or a simple weeknight salmon fillet. You will love the contrast between the crunchy toasted almonds and the soft, caramelized leaves of the sprouts. Because it cooks in less than half an hour, it is an ideal option for busy evenings when you want a healthy meal without the extensive cleanup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights
- The air fryer creates superior crunch compared to traditional roasting
- A perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors
- Healthy and packed with fiber and nutrients
- Simple preparation with very minimal cleanup time
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp toasted sliced almonds
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Equipment
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Garlic and Honey
Discover how to make crispy air-fried Brussels sprouts with garlic, lemon, and honey. A healthy, flavorful side dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. This preheating step ensures the cooking environment is hot enough to start caramelizing the sprouts immediately once they enter the basket, preventing them from becoming soggy.
- Season the Sprouts. While the fryer heats up, place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika over the oiled sprouts, tossing again to distribute the spices evenly.
- First Roast Phase. Transfer the seasoned sprouts to the air-fryer basket in a single layer. It is important not to crowd the basket, as this traps steam and prevents the desired browning. Cook for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even exposure to the hot air.
- Glaze and Caramelize. After the initial 12 minutes, drizzle the honey and fresh lemon juice over the sprouts. Return the basket to the fryer for an additional 5-6 minutes. This allows the honey-lemon glaze to set and caramelize beautifully against the edges of the sprouts.
- Final Touch and Serve. When the sprouts are deep golden-brown and crispy on the outside, remove them from the fryer. Immediately toss them with the grated Parmesan and toasted almonds. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat, and finish with a generous handful of chopped parsley.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.