Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts have super crispy leaves and loads of flavor. With the ease of prep and short cook time, they'll be your new favorite air fryer vegetable in no time!

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About a year ago, Zach and I went out for dinner at an upscale steakhouse in West Des Moines. Although the steak was totally delicious, we raved about the brussel sprouts the whole way home.

I remember them having the most incredible texture and a delicious seasoning. They had crispy pieces of bacon scattered throughout the soft halved sprouts with brittle, crunchy outer leaves. I could go on and on....but I'll spare you!

I've tried to re-create these brussel sprouts at home numerous times, but always seem to fall flat when comparing the two. Then enter the air fryer and WHOA. Game changer, folks!! We've now had these 4 of the last 7 days....they're addicting and luckily healthy too!

Do you need to preheat an air fryer?

Do you need to? No. Do I recommend it? Yes...especially for vegetables! Even preheating your air fryer for 1 minute will help give you the crisp veggies you desire!

In an air fryer a healthy way to prepare food?

Yes!!! Instead of using tons of oil to fry food, the air circulation in the air fryer serves the same purpose. The hot air that blows around the food will cook and crisp it without adding calories like deep fat frying.

Depending on what I'm making in the air fryer, I might add a little bit of oil. These brussel sprouts, for example, do turn out better with the addition of oil. However, it's not a lot, so these nutrient-packed sprouts are good AND good for you! Pair with this Honey Sesame Pork Tenderloin for a lean, flavor-packed meal!

Can I use frozen brussel sprouts for this recipe?

I would highly discourage using frozen brussel sprouts in the air fryer. Frozen brussel sprouts are quite water-logged and will turn out mushy in the center and not as crispy as you'd like on the outside. Go with the fresh sprouts - it'll make a world of difference!!

How do you make Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts?

Once you've gathered your ingredients, it's time to get cookin'!

First, you'll want to prepare the brussel sprouts. Wash the sprouts, then remove any wilted leaves and discard them. Next, cut the bottom root off of the sprouts and halve them vertically, and cut again to quarter them. Place in a gallon-sized resealable bag.

Next, chop the bacon. I love the flavor the bacon brings and even just two slices will do the trick!! Place the two bacon slices on a cutting board and cut them into small pieces (somewhere around ½ inch x ½ inch). Add them to the bag.

Next, pour in the oil, salt and pepper. Seal the bag and shake to coat the sprouts evenly. Some of the leaves will fall off the brussel sprouts. Don't worry about that - they tend to become my favorite crispy little pieces!

Preheat the air fryer for at least one minute to get it nice and hot. Add the brussel sprout mixture and spread them out in an even layer.

Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until they're cooked to your liking. Be sure to shake the tray (or stir carefully) every 2-3 minutes for even cooking. Once they're done, enjoy them as-is, or drizzle balsamic glaze overtop and enjoy hot!

Brussels Sprouts in a white bowl on a wooden table

What else can I cook in my air fryer?

Brussel sprouts are easily my favorite vegetable to make in the air fryer. Just give them a try and you'll see why!! I also enjoy making sweet potato fries, too, as they crisp up nicely for a healthy, delicious side dish.

A super simple main dish that I love is this Easy Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon. SO much flavor and perfect salmon texture in no time!

And lastly, if you're looking for a quick and easy dessert/snack, these Air Fryer Churro Bites are SO simple and always a hit!