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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

crispy air fryer brussels sprouts - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy Brussels sprouts cooked in an air fryer and finished with a sweet-tart homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect as a snack or side dish with a satisfying crunchy texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher salt recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon butter (optional, use dairy-free butter if needed)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 g) of fresh Brussels sprouts and trim the stem ends. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise for better crisping. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Toss until each piece is evenly coated.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Arrange the sprouts cut-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. While the sprouts cook, combine 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the top and toss gently to coat.

Notes

For best crispiness, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket and shake or stir halfway through cooking. Preheat the air fryer before cooking. The balsamic glaze thickens as it cools, so add it just before serving. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, air fryer, balsamic glaze, crispy, healthy snack, easy recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free