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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Easy Balsamic Glaze

crispy air fryer brussels sprouts - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy Brussels sprouts cooked in an air fryer and topped with a sweet-tart homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect as a flavorful veggie side that is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Trim off the stem ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cut side down if possible. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the sprouts halfway through cooking (around 7 minutes) until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  6. While the sprouts cook, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy.
  7. Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl, drizzle with the warm balsamic glaze, toss gently to coat, and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness. Place sprouts cut side down for better caramelization. Shake or flip halfway through cooking. Keep an eye on the balsamic glaze while simmering to avoid burning; add a teaspoon of water if it thickens too much. For vegan glaze, substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer or oven to regain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

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