Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels

Enjoy perfectly crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels, bursting with flavor and ready in minutes for a healthy, tasty side dish. This recipe transforms ordinary Brussels sprouts into a golden, garlicky delight topped with rich Parmesan cheese, making it an irresistible companion for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing side, these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels bring a deliciously crunchy texture and savory punch that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast preparation: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Healthy choice: Uses minimal oil and air frying to deliver crispy Brussels sprouts with fewer calories.
• Flavor-packed: Garlic and Parmesan add depth and richness without overpowering the natural vegetable taste.
• Versatile side dish: Complements everything from grilled chicken to pasta, making dinners exciting.
• Simple cleanup: Minimal mess since everything cooks in the air fryer without splattering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create a dish full of vibrant flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a key role in making your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels perfectly crispy and delightful.

• Brussels sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts are the base for this dish and provide the perfect crunch.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers an aromatic, savory kick that infuses the sprouts.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty layer that crisps up beautifully.
• Olive oil: A light coating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden exterior.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors and balance the richness.
• Optional red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle heat for those who love a little spice.

Variations for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels

This recipe is incredibly easy to customize, so whether you’re tailoring it to personal tastes, dietary needs, or just experimenting, adjustments are seamless and delicious.

• Vegan twist: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Extra crunch: Toss in some panko breadcrumbs before air frying for a crispy coating.
• Herb boost: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic herbaceous note.
• Spicy variation: Include smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.
• Lemony zest: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest to brighten the dish.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels sprouts

Rinse and dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, then trim the stems and cut them in half lengthwise for even cooking and maximum surface area for crispiness.

Step 2: Season the sprouts

In a large bowl, combine the sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the air fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes to prepare for perfectly crisp Brussels.

Step 4: Air fry the sprouts

Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Parmesan cheese

During the last 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the sprouts and continue air frying until the cheese melts and forms a tasty, golden crust.

Step 6: Serve immediately

Transfer the crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels to a serving dish and enjoy while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels

• Even sizing: Cut Brussels sprouts into similar sizes to guarantee uniform cooking and browning.
• Dry thoroughly: Make sure sprouts are dry after washing to avoid sogginess and help crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd: Air fryer baskets cook best when sprouts are spaced out in a single layer.
• Shake halfway: Toss the sprouts halfway through cooking for even color and texture on all sides.
• Add cheese later: Sprinkling Parmesan toward the end prevents it from burning and maximizes flavor.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chopped chives add a pop of green color and a fresh herbal note that complements the rich, cheesy sprouts beautifully.

Side Dishes

These Brussels sprouts work beautifully alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, salmon, or even a hearty grain bowl for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in a rustic wooden bowl sprinkled with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They maintain their flavor and texture best when eaten within 3 days.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best to eat these sprouts fresh. Freezing can cause the texture to become mushy after reheating, so enjoy fresh for peak crispness.

Reheating

To reheat, use the air fryer or a hot oven to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave as it tends to make the sprouts soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used, but fresh ones yield better crispness and flavor; if using frozen, make sure to thaw and dry them completely before cooking.

Is it necessary to use an air fryer for this recipe?

The air fryer offers a quick and oil-efficient way to get crispy Brussels, but you can roast them in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes as an alternative.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning during air frying?

Mix the garlic with the oil and coat the sprouts well, and add any extra garlic or Parmesan toward the end of cooking to avoid burning.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you omit any breadcrumb additions from variations.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels?

These Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even tossed in salads or pasta dishes for added texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a healthy yet indulgent side that’s both quick and easy, look no further than this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels recipe. With its golden crispiness, flavorful garlic, and Parmesan richness, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. Dive in and enjoy the magic of perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts right from your air fryer!

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