These Air Fryer Frozen Brussels Sprouts are destined to become your easy weeknight method for prepping vegetables. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, well seasoned, and incredibly simple to make.
Crisping vegetables or frozen foods in the air fryer—like air fryer butternut squash or air fryer carrots—is one of my favorite ways to get a flavorful, hands-off side on the table fast.
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Why You’ll Love this Recipe
- Transforms Brussels sprouts. If you grew up on boiled sprouts, air frying frozen Brussels makes a dramatic difference—crispy, caramelized edges and a sweet, nutty interior. Once you try them this way, boiling will feel outdated.
- Fast and practical for weeknights. While there’s a place for prepping fresh sprouts (for example, sheet pan maple bacon Brussels sprouts), a bag of frozen sprouts in the air fryer is far quicker and nearly zero prep—perfect for busy evenings.
- Great for holiday menus. Save oven space for big dishes and let the air fryer handle the Brussels sprouts. They make a satisfying, hands-off side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Brussels sprouts. A 12–16 oz bag of frozen Brussels sprouts fits well in most air fryers. Some stores sell pre-trimmed, washed bags which save even more time. If you need to feed a crowd, plan on making multiple batches so they cook in a single layer.
- Olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil works well, but any neutral oil with a high smoke point is fine if you prefer another option.
- Basic seasoning. Keep the flavor versatile with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Optional add-ins: smoked paprika, cayenne, chili powder, or a squeeze of lemon after cooking.
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts and serving information.
Instructions
- Place the frozen Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil and seasonings, then toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking or stirring halfway through. Cook until fork-tender with golden, crisp edges. Finish with extra salt, pepper, or grated Parmesan if desired.
Sarah’s Top Tips
- Air fryers vary. Use the recommended time as a guide—your model might need a minute or two more. Look for easily pierced centers and nicely browned, crisp exteriors.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Multiple layers trap steam and prevent crisping. For the best texture, cook in a single layer; make extra batches if necessary.
Serving
Air fryer Brussels sprouts pair well with many proteins and sides. Try them alongside roasted or pan-seared chicken, pork steaks, or a whole roasted chicken for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or a 350°F oven until warmed through to preserve crispness. Microwaving can make them soggy.
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Air Fryer Frozen Brussels Sprouts
See the full post for extra tips and photos
Ingredients
- 1 (12-16 ounce) package frozen Brussels sprouts
- 1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
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Toss the Brussels sprouts with the olive oil and seasonings until evenly coated.
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Place in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking or stirring halfway through, until crispy and tender.
Sarah’s Tips
- All air fryers cook differently—use the times as a guide and adjust as needed.
- Cook in a single layer to ensure crisping; overcrowding causes steaming.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for best texture; microwaving can make them soggy.
Tools I Use for This Recipe
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Mixing Bowls
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Air Fryer
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Calories: 34.16kcal
Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on brands, measurements, and portion sizes.
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