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These air fryer Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside, tender in the middle, and ready in just 12 minutes from start to finish. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this small batch recipe is perfect when you want a quick, flavorful side dish without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready from prep to plate in just 12 minutes.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The air fryer gives you golden, caramelized edges and tender centers.
- Perfectly Portioned: Small batch size makes just enough for one or two.
I used to always order Brussels sprouts at restaurants just for that crispy, caramelized goodness, but they were usually deep fried. Once I figured out how to get that same texture at home with my air fryer, I was hooked.
This version comes out just the way I like them, with golden edges and a tender center. It’s become one of those recipes I reach for when I want something easy and flavorful to go alongside dinner.
Whether I’m making baked cod for one, a baked chicken breast, or even just making a burger bowl, these Brussels sprouts fit right in. I keep coming back to this one because it’s simple, reliable, and really tasty.
Looking for more air fryer recipes for one? Try small batch air fryer shrimp, air fryer sirloin steak, air fryer pork chop, air fryer chocolate chip cookies, and air fryer baked potato recipes.
Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this small batch air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Brussels Sprouts: Use 12 ounces of fresh Brussels sprouts. Look for ones that are firm and bright green. Extra Brussels sprouts? Try our single serving Brussels sprouts salad.
- Olive Oil: A small amount is all you need to help the sprouts crisp up and carry the seasonings.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a mellow, savory flavor that pairs well with the caramelized sprouts.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Sometimes the simplest seasonings are the best. Just a pinch of each brings everything together.
Recipe Variations
I usually keep the seasoning simple with with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, but here are a few easy ways to change things up:
- With Parmesan: Add shredded Parmesan just after cooking.
- Honey Drizzle: Add a touch of sweetness with a drizzle of honey.
- Sweet & Spicy: Combine honey with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a sweet and
- fiery kick.
- With Bacon: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon right before serving.
- Small Batch Béchamel Sauce: Adds a rich, creamy layer that complements their flavor.
How To Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These photos and instructions help you visualize how cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for at least 5 minutes.
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts under running water, then pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels. Trim the ends and cut in half, or quarters if they’re large.
- Place the sprouts in a bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 4 minutes, then shake the basket and cook for 3 more minutes.
Check for crispness. If you’d like them crispier, cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Want to roast Brussels sprouts in the oven instead?
Check out our Small Batch Roasted Brussels Sprouts for another simple way to enjoy them.
To Store And Reheat Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- To Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To Reheat: Use the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through.
- To Freeze: Not recommended. The texture will be soft when thawed, but if needed, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips
- Cut Large Sprouts: Halve or quarter sprouts over 1 inch for even cooking.
- Dry Well: Moisture prevents browning, so make sure the sprouts are dry before seasoning.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer so they crisp instead of steam.
- Shake the Basket Midway: This helps the sprouts cook and brown evenly on all sides.
- Check for Crisp Edges: Look for golden, caramelized edges when done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cook at 360°F for about 7 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Add an extra 2 to 3 minutes if you like them crispier.
Fresh works best. Frozen sprouts tend to steam and won’t get as crispy.
You can, but choose vegetables that cook at the same time, like halved baby carrots or small cauliflower florets, and don’t overcrowd the basket.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you’ve made this single serving air fryer Brussel sprouts recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Please rate the recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below.
Snapped a photo? Tag us on Instagram; we’d be thrilled to see your creation!
Small Batch Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Brussels sprouts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for at least 5 minutes.
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts under running water, then pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels. Trim the ends and cut in half, or quarters if they’re large.
- Place the sprouts in a bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 4 minutes, then shake the basket and cook for 3 more minutes.Tip: Check for crispness. If you’d like them crispier, cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Notes
- Cut Large Sprouts: Halve or quarter sprouts over 1 inch for even cooking.
- Dry Well: Moisture prevents browning, so make sure the sprouts are dry before seasoning.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer so they crisp instead of steam.
- Shake the Basket Midway: This helps the sprouts cook and brown evenly on all sides.
- Check for Crisp Edges: Look for golden, caramelized edges when done.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Sounds delish but pls give instr for oven, too, as some don’t hv air fryer. Tks
Oven instructions are included right in the post, just below the recipe card in a big blue box. Hope you enjoy the Brussels sprouts!
Great recipe,
Thank you!!