I’ve always been a fan of vegetables, but Brussels sprouts used to intimidate me. They have this reputation for being bitter and bland—but when roasted or air-fried just right, they transform into these crispy, flavorful little gems. The first time I tried making them in the air fryer, I was hooked. The heat surrounds each sprout, giving it a perfectly crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and rich.
Pairing them with Parmesan cheese elevates them even more. The cheese melts slightly over the hot sprouts, creating a savory, nutty coating that makes these Brussels sprouts irresistible. They’re quick to prepare, require minimal effort, and have become my go-to side dish for weeknight dinners or even for impressing guests.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Brussels Sprouts: These little green cabbages are the star of the show. Look for firm, bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Smaller sprouts tend to roast more evenly and develop a natural sweetness when air-fried.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that perfectly complements the roasted Brussels sprouts. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the best melting and coating effect.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil helps the sprouts crisp up in the air fryer while adding a subtle richness. It also helps the Parmesan stick to the sprouts.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a fragrant, savory note without overwhelming the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts. A little goes a long way.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning is key. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts, and freshly cracked black pepper adds a slight bite.
Optional Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim the ends. Slice them in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Season the Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated for maximum flavor and crispiness.
Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the Brussels sprouts in the basket in a single layer to allow even cooking. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they brown evenly.
Add the Parmesan
Once the sprouts are golden and crispy, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over them while they’re still hot. Return to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt slightly and adhere to the sprouts.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and, if desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little extra zing. Serve immediately for the best crispiness.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Smaller Brussels sprouts tend to roast better and have a naturally sweeter flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each sprout space to crisp up.
- For extra crunch, toss the sprouts in a little more Parmesan halfway through cooking.
- Serve immediately—air-fried vegetables lose their crispiness if they sit too long.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika or Italian herbs for variety.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry first; excess moisture will prevent them from crisping.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be a delicious alternative to Parmesan.
Are these Brussels sprouts spicy?
Not unless you add red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat to your taste.