If you’re searching for a fantastic way to enjoy Brussels sprouts that’s both crispy and bursting with flavor, this Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe is just what you need. Perfectly tender on the inside and delectably crunchy on the outside, these little veggies transform into a sensational snack or side dish that will win over even the biggest Brussels sprout skeptics.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Here are a few reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire:
- Quick and Convenient: Using the air fryer speeds up cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Deliciously Crispy Texture: The smashing technique creates more surface area that gets beautifully caramelized and crunchy.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and parmesan bring out the natural sweetness and nuttiness of Brussels sprouts.
- Versatile Dish: This recipe works as a snack, side dish, or appetizer and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients & Substitutions
This Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe relies on a handful of pantry staples that contribute flavor, texture, and a hint of tang. Each ingredient has its purpose — from the balsamic’s tangy sweetness to parmesan’s cheesy richness — creating a perfectly balanced bite every time.
- Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm sprouts yield the best texture; smaller ones work better for smashing evenly.
- Olive Oil: Helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up in the air fryer and adds a rich, fruity undertone.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a delightful tang and complements the natural sweetness of the sprouts beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan: Melts slightly during air frying, lending a savory, nutty finish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the other flavors.
How to Make Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Microwave the Brussels Sprouts
Start by rinsing your Brussels sprouts and placing them in a microwave-safe dish with about ¼ cup of water. Microwave them on high for 4 minutes — this softens the inside, making them ready for smashing and ensures your final dish is tender with a crisp exterior.
Step 2: Smash the Brussels Sprouts
Once the sprouts are cool enough to handle (about 5 to 10 minutes), place each one on a cutting board and gently smash it flat using the back of a small bowl or large spoon. This step is the secret to unlocking that crispy, caramelized goodness you’re after.
Step 3: Season and Toss
Transfer the smashed sprouts to a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle grated parmesan, and add salt and pepper to your taste. Toss gently to make sure every crevice is coated in flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the coated sprouts in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 400˚F for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through so they crisp up evenly on all sides. The result? Golden, crispy, irresistible little bites loaded with flavor.
How to Serve Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to jazz these up with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and a fresh hint. A dash of chili flakes adds a lovely kick if you want to spice things up. A final drizzle of extra balsamic glaze can add a sweet-tart finish that pairs perfectly with the parmesan.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty grain bowl. They also make a fantastic companion to pasta dishes or alongside a warming soup for a nutritious, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these sprouts piled high on a rustic platter or in a colorful bowl for a casual gathering. For an elegant touch, sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds and place on small appetizer spoons for a trendy party bite. Their crisp edges and golden color make them super visually appealing too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days, making for convenient snacks or easy additions to lunchboxes.
Freezing
This particular recipe doesn’t freeze well because the texture changes once thawed. I recommend enjoying it fresh to keep that amazing crispiness intact.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the Brussels sprouts back into the air fryer at 350˚F for 3-4 minutes — this refreshes the crisp texture beautifully without drying them out like a microwave might.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh sprouts are ideal for smashing and crisping, you can use thawed frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before cooking to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
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What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast the smashed Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet at 425˚F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. The texture will still be delicious though slightly different.
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Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add your personal twist.
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What makes this an “Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe”?
The key is in “smashing” the Brussels sprouts to increase surface area, which crisps up beautifully when cooked quickly in the air fryer, resulting in a perfect combination of tender and crunchy.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe — it’s fast, flavorful, and downright addictive. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your veggie game or whip up an impressive appetizer, these sprouts will quickly become a favorite in your home. Give it a try and watch how everyone reaches for seconds!
Print
Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts coated with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and parmesan cheese. This quick and easy recipe offers a perfect appetizer or side dish with a delightful crispy texture achieved using an air fryer.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 12 oz bag of Brussels Sprouts
Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Microwave Brussels Sprouts: In a large microwave-safe dish, place the uncooked Brussels sprouts and add ¼ cup of water. Microwave on high for 4 minutes to soften them for smashing.
- Cool Down: Remove the Brussels sprouts from the microwave and let them cool for 5 to 10 minutes to handle safely.
- Smash Brussels Sprouts: Place the cooled Brussels sprouts on a cutting board. Using the back of a small bowl or a large spoon, gently smash each sprout to flatten slightly.
- Season: Transfer the smashed Brussels sprouts to a large bowl. Add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until all the sprouts are well coated with the seasoning.
- Air Fry: Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 6 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
- Serve: Once cooked and crispy, serve the Brussels sprouts immediately as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- You can keep the Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Do not freeze.
- These smashed Brussels sprouts are perfect served as an appetizer or a side dish.
- If you like a little spice, add chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
