30-Minute Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Brussels sprouts get a gourmet upgrade with golden Parmesan cheese and crunchy panko breadcrumbs in this quick air fryer recipe. The high heat caramelizes the sprouts while creating a deliciously crispy exterior coating. Perfect as a sophisticated side dish for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, these Brussels sprouts cook in just 10 minutes and transform a often-disliked vegetable into a crowd-pleasing favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 6 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- 1
Put Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper
- 2
Combine Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs in a small bowl
- 3
Put half of the Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket and shake to get them in a single layer
- 4
Set temperature to 400 F and time to 5 minutes
- 5
Pull out basket when timer goes off and sprinkle on half of the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then toss to distribute
- 6
Put tray back in and set time for 5 more minutes, checking at 3 minutes to avoid overcooking
- 7
Repeat cooking process with second batch
- 8
Top with more Parmesan if desired and serve
Tips
Check Brussels sprouts at 3 minutes during the second cooking phase to prevent burning, as air fryers can vary in intensity.
Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and prevent sticking.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder to the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture.
Good to Know
Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can be prepped up to 4 hours ahead - toss Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings, then cook just before serving.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy for best texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
Don't skip checking at 3 minutes during second cook time to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw and pat them completely dry first. Frozen sprouts may need an extra 2-3 minutes cooking time and won't get quite as crispy as fresh ones.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can roast these in a 425 F oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. The texture will be slightly less crispy but still delicious.
How long will these keep and can I reheat them?
Store leftovers for up to 3 days refrigerated. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350 F to restore crispiness, or eat cold in salads.