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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

air fryer Brussels sprouts - featured image

These crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts are tossed with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for a quick, addictive side dish. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you crave a healthy, flavorful veggie.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts (fresh, trimmed and halved)
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (or maple syrup)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse Brussels sprouts under cold water, trim stem ends, remove yellowed leaves, and slice in half (quarter if large). Pat dry thoroughly.
  2. Place sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if using), and smoked paprika (if using). Toss well to coat.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 2 minutes. Arrange seasoned sprouts in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if needed).
  4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through, until deeply golden and crispy. Add 2-3 more minutes if needed for extra crispiness.
  5. While sprouts cook, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan with a pinch of salt. Simmer over medium heat, stirring often, until thickened and syrupy (6-8 minutes). If too thick, add a splash of water.
  6. Transfer crispy sprouts to a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with optional Parmesan, pine nuts, or cranberries. Serve hot.

Notes

Pat sprouts dry for maximum crispiness. Cook in a single layer and shake halfway for even browning. The balsamic glaze thickens quickly—watch closely. For vegan or gluten-free, use maple syrup and check vinegar label. Optional add-ins like Parmesan, pine nuts, or cranberries add flavor and texture. Leftovers reheat best in the air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer Brussels sprouts, balsamic glaze, crispy vegetables, easy side dish, healthy, gluten-free, vegan option, holiday, weeknight, vegetarian