Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts cooked in an air fryer in about 15 minutes — a quick, healthy and delicious snack or side dish.

If you don’t own an air fryer yet, consider getting one — it browns and crisps vegetables quickly while using far less oil than traditional frying. Brussels sprouts are ideal for air frying: they become crisp on the outside while staying tender inside. A touch of garlic, lemon and freshly grated Parmesan elevates their flavor and makes them irresistible.

You can roast Brussels sprouts in the oven, but the air fryer delivers a superior crisp in much less time. This recipe was inspired by a favorite appetizer and produces restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Brussels sprouts – rinse, trim the stem ends, remove loose leaves and halve lengthwise so they crisp well.
• Olive oil – helps the sprouts brown and crisp. Use a cold‑pressed extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Lemon juice – brightens the dish; a little zest can be added for extra citrus aroma.
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic is best, but jarred minced garlic or 1 tsp garlic powder will work in a pinch.
• Parmesan cheese – freshly grated Parmesan adds savory richness; the recipe uses the cheese in two additions for best texture.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste.

How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Prep the sprouts. Trim ends, remove any loose or damaged outer leaves, and cut sprouts in half lengthwise so cut sides can brown.
• Toss with seasonings. In a medium bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt and pepper. Save the remaining Parmesan for later.
• Preheat the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Some models require preheating, others do not — follow your unit’s guidance.
• Air fry in a single layer. Arrange the sprouts cut side down in the basket in a single layer to ensure even crisping. Cook for about 15 minutes total, shaking the basket or gently tossing the sprouts halfway through. At the halfway point, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan over the sprouts.
• Finish and serve. When the sprouts are deep golden and crisp at the edges and tender inside, remove them, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, Parmesan or a little lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Bake in the Oven

If you don’t have an air fryer, roast them in the oven with almost the same ingredients and great results.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan in a medium bowl.
2. Spread the sprouts cut side down on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast 20 minutes, then flip and roast an additional 10 minutes until the outer leaves are deeply golden and crisp.
3. Transfer to a serving dish and season with additional salt and Parmesan to taste.

Perfect for Picky Eaters

If you think you dislike Brussels sprouts, try this preparation — the caramelized, crispy edges and savory Parmesan often win people over. The recipe is low‑carb and keto friendly; if you want extra crunch you can sprinkle panko or breadcrumbs on before roasting, but this will add carbs.

Prepping and Storage

Store leftover cooked Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To re-crisp them, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes until heated through and crisped.

More Brussels Sprout Recipes

• 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! If you make them and like them, leave a rating and share your photo on social media — I love seeing recreations.