Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts ready in about 15 minutes in the air fryer — a quick, healthy side or snack with a golden, crunchy exterior and tender center.

If you haven’t tried an air fryer yet, it’s worth considering for speedy, healthier cooking that delivers crisp results without deep frying. Brussels sprouts are ideal in the air fryer: they brown and crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside. Garlic and Parmesan boost the flavor and make these a favorite side dish or appetizer. You can roast them in the oven, but the air fryer gives more pronounced crispness in less time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Brussels sprouts – rinse, trim the stem ends, remove loose outer leaves and halve each sprout so the cut side can crisp.
• Olive oil – a small amount helps the edges brown and become crisp. Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
• Lemon juice – a splash brightens the dish; optional zest adds extra freshness.
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic is ideal for aroma and bite; use jarred minced garlic or 1 tsp garlic powder if needed.
• Parmesan cheese – freshly grated Parmesan clings to the sprouts and melts slightly for a savory finish. The recipe uses the cheese in two stages so some melts and some forms a crisp crust.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste, for finishing and seasoning during cooking.

How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Prepare the sprouts. Trim and halve 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Removing loose outer leaves helps prevent sogginess and encourages even browning.
• Toss with seasonings. In a medium bowl, mix the halved sprouts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, and 1/2 teaspoon salt plus a few grinds of black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
• Preheat the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Some models require preheating; others do not, but 375°F is the ideal target temperature for crisping without burning.
• Air fry in a single layer. Arrange the sprouts cut-side down in the basket without overcrowding so air can circulate and they crisp evenly. Cook for about 8 minutes, then shake the basket.
• Add more Parmesan and finish. After the first shake, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan over the sprouts and continue to air fry for another 7–8 minutes, or until the outsides are deeply golden and crisp and the centers are tender.
• Serve and season. Remove the sprouts, taste, and add extra salt, pepper, lemon zest, or more grated Parmesan as desired. Serve hot.

How to Bake in the Oven

Don’t have an air fryer? You can roast these in a conventional oven with excellent results, though it takes a little longer to reach the same crispness.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and 1/4 cup Parmesan.
2. Spread them cut-side down on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes, then flip and roast another 10 minutes until the leaves are deeply browned and crisp.
3. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional Parmesan and a little extra salt, if needed.

Perfect for Picky Eaters

If you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts yet, these might change your mind. The air fryer transforms their texture and reduces bitterness, while garlic, lemon and Parmesan provide familiar, craveable flavors. To keep the recipe low-carb and keto-friendly, skip breadcrumbs; if you want extra crunch and aren’t avoiding carbs, a light sprinkle of breadcrumbs before cooking adds a golden coating.

Prepping and Storage

Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. To restore crispness, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

More Brussels Sprout Ideas

• Balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts
• Maple-glazed butternut squash and Brussels sprouts
• Pomegranate-glazed Brussels sprouts
• Fall Brussels sprout salad
• Brussels sprouts with lemon and brown rice

Enjoy these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts — they make a great side for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or as a flavorful snack. If you give the recipe a try, consider leaving a rating or comment where you found it and share any personal tweaks you like. Happy cooking!