Warm up the air fryer.

This will be your new favorite way to make Brussels sprouts.

This method prevents that bitterness problem that all too often keeps people from loving these tiny cabbages.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts on a plate ready to serve

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Browning is the name of the game here.

Brussels are great when deeply browned; they are sweet, nutty, and a bit bitter.

The key is getting tons of color while also getting a tender sprout.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts in a serving bowl to serve

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

A quick salt water brine ensures that these are well seasoned and tender.

(OK, everyothernight.)

And the sauce largely relies on fridge and pantry staples.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts soaking the sprouts in salt water

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

So go warm up the air fryer, and here’s a brief outline of the process.

Can You Freeze Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts?

We do not recommend you freeze cooked Brussels sprouts.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts making the honey, soy sauce, and garlic mixture

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

The texture will change greatly after thawing, leave the sprouts mushy and unappealing.

Variations

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are quite versatile.

freshBrussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise (about4cups)

2Tbsp.honey

1 Tbsp.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts drying the sprouts

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Set aside at room temperature.

Drain and dry Brussels sprouts:

Preheat air fryer to 340F for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, drain Brussels sprouts, and pat dry using paper towels.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts tossing the sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Transfer sprouts to air fryer basket:

Lightly coat air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Add Brussels sprouts to basket in an even layer.

Toss sprouts with sauce:

Toss with reserved honey mixture, and serve immediately.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts adding the sprouts to the air fryer basket

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Frequently Asked Questions

Moisture is the greatest foe of good browning and crispness on roasted vegetables.

Space them out for the best, crispy sprouts.

The ends are woody and tough.

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts after cooking in the air fryer

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Southern Living Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts tossing with the soy sauce mixture before serving

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer