Description
A quick and easy side dish featuring crispy air-fried Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers crunch and flavor with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon (14g) butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) water
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
- Optional: ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Trim the stem ends off the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Quarter any large sprouts for even cooking. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
- Air fry for 7 minutes, then shake or toss the basket to flip the sprouts. Continue cooking for another 5-8 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
- While the sprouts cook, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, butter, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze, about 4-5 minutes. Add a splash of water if too thick.
- Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a bowl. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over and toss gently to coat.
- If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for best crunch and flavor.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness; cook in batches if necessary. Dry Brussels sprouts thoroughly to avoid steaming. Stir the balsamic glaze constantly to prevent burning and adjust heat as needed. Leftover glaze can be used on other dishes. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/6 of
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 230
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 3
Keywords: Brussels sprouts, air fryer, balsamic glaze, quick side dish, healthy, crispy, easy recipe, weeknight dinner