Crispy, no-oil Brussels sprouts perfect for holiday feasts
These air-fryer Brussels sprouts are the ultimate holiday hack—crispy, caramelized, and ready in 12 minutes. With just olive oil, salt, and balsamic glaze, they’re a guilt-free side that pairs perfectly with turkey or ham.
Forget soggy, steamed Brussels sprouts. This air-fryer method gives you restaurant-quality crispiness without oil. Ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas, they add a festive touch to any table.
The balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish, while sea salt enhances the natural sweetness. Plus, they’re low-fat and take minutes to prep—perfect for busy hosts.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a quick weeknight side, these sprouts are a game-changer. Save this recipe for your next holiday feast!
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ No-Oil Crispiness
The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a crispy exterior without oil. Just a drizzle of olive oil for flavor!
💰 Quick Holiday Side
Ready in 12 minutes, this recipe saves time during busy holiday cooking. No oven space needed!
👥 Healthy & Festive
Low-fat and packed with nutrients, these sprouts add color and crunch to your holiday plate.
🌟 Balsamic Magic
The glaze adds a sweet-tangy finish that elevates the dish from side to star attraction.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts
Choose firm, compact sprouts for best results. Smaller ones cook faster.
Substitutions: Use broccoli or cauliflower for a different texture.
Olive Oil
Provides light flavor and helps the sprouts crisp up. Can use avocado oil for higher smoke point.
Substitutions: Lightly mist with cooking spray for even less oil.
Balsamic Glaze
Adds tangy sweetness. Can substitute with balsamic vinegar, but glaze gives better texture.
Substitutions: Use honey or maple syrup for a sweeter finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crispy Brussels Sprouts
🔥 Prep Ahead
Trim and halve sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
📸 Even Layers
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer—work in batches for maximum crispiness.
⏱️ Check for Doneness
Sprouts are done when golden and crispy. Undercooked? They’ll be soggy; overcooked? Burnt.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve warm for best texture. Reheat in air fryer for 2-3 minutes if needed.
Variations & Customizations
Parmesan Crust
Sprinkle grated Parmesan before air frying for a savory, cheesy edge.
Spicy Version
Add 1/2 tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb Infusion
Mix in dried thyme or rosemary with the salt for extra flavor.
Sweet & Savory
Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before glazing for a sweet twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey or ham (classic holiday pairing)
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty plate
- Grilled salmon for a protein-packed meal
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Trim and halve sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooked sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer for 2-3 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked sprouts for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. Avoid microwave to maintain crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My sprouts are soggy. What did I do wrong?
A: Likely overcrowded the air fryer. Cook in batches for even crispiness.
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A: Fresh is best, but thaw frozen sprouts completely first. Expect slightly less crisp texture.
Q: How to prevent burning?
A: Shake the air fryer halfway and check frequently. Adjust time based on your appliance.
Q: Can I add cheese?
A: Yes! Sprinkle Parmesan or Gruyère during cooking for a cheesy version.
Final Thoughts
These air-fryer Brussels sprouts are a game-changer for holiday meals. With no oil and minimal effort, you’ll have a crispy, flavorful side that pairs perfectly with any main. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or looking for a quick weeknight recipe, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
Try the Parmesan or spicy variations to keep things interesting. Don’t forget to share your favorite holiday sides in the comments—we’d love to hear your ideas!
