Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by CJ Eats on YouTube.
Prep: 7 min | Cook: 23 min | Total: 35 min
Cost: $3.42 total, $0.86 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels Sprouts (trimmed and halved vertically, stem left intact)
- 2 Tbsp Neutral Oil (canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil)
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 Tbsp Honey (light drizzle for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 spray Neutral Oil Spray (for coating the air fryer basket)
Instructions
Trim and halve Brussels sprouts
Trim the stem ends off each sprout, remove any loose outer leaves, then cut each sprout in half vertically, keeping the stem attached for stability.
Time: PT5M
Coat with oil, seasonings, and honey
Place the halved sprouts in a mixing bowl. Add neutral oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and honey. Toss until every piece is evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Preheat the air fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 2 minutes.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 400°F
Prepare the basket and load sprouts
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with neutral oil spray. Arrange the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer, making sure no pieces overlap.
Time: PT1M
First air‑fry cycle
Air fry at 400°F for 12‑14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.
Time: PT13M
Temperature: 400°F
Second air‑fry cycle for ultra‑crispness
Give the sprouts a good toss, then air fry for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges are deep golden‑brown and ultra‑crispy.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 400°F
Serve
Remove the sprouts, transfer to a serving dish, and enjoy while hot. Optionally sprinkle a pinch of extra salt.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 3g
- Carbohydrates
- 12g
- Fat
- 7g
- Fiber
- 3g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Nut‑Free
Allergens: Honey
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Neutral Oil: Olive oil (extra‑virgin)
- Instead of Kosher Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Garlic Powder: 1 clove fresh minced garlic
- Instead of Honey: Maple syrup
- Instead of Neutral Oil Spray: lightly brush with oil using a pastry brush
Equipment Needed
- Air Fryer
- Mixing Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Tongs or Spoon
- Oil Spray Bottle (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Trim and halve Brussels sprouts
- Prepare the basket and load sprouts
- First air‑fry cycle
- Second air‑fry cycle for ultra‑crispness
Chef Tips from the Video
- Pat the Brussels sprouts dry with paper towels before adding oil for maximum crispness.
- A light drizzle of honey at the end of cooking adds a glossy finish without making the sprouts soggy.
Troubleshooting
Sprouts are soggy instead of crispy.
Make sure the basket is not overcrowded; dry the sprouts thoroughly before coating and increase the second air‑fry time by 2‑3 minutes.
Sprouts burn on the edges.
Reduce the temperature to 380°F and check after 8 minutes; shake the basket more frequently.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; re‑crisp in a hot air fryer for 2‑3 minutes before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture becomes soggy after thawing.
Room temperature: Do not leave out longer than 2 hours; will lose crispness.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Trim, halve, and coat the sprouts up to 2 hours ahead; keep refrigerated and give a quick toss before air frying.
- If you must store cooked sprouts, re‑heat in the air fryer to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Brussels sprouts in European cuisine?
Brussels sprouts originated in Belgium in the 16th century and were traditionally cultivated as a winter vegetable. They became popular across Europe as a hearty, nutrient‑dense side, especially in the UK and the Netherlands where they are often roasted or boiled.
What are the traditional regional variations of Brussels sprouts in Belgian cuisine?
In Belgium, Brussels sprouts are commonly prepared with bacon, chestnuts, or a simple butter‑and‑lemon glaze. The dish can also be braised with onions and white wine, highlighting the sprout’s natural sweetness.
How are Brussels sprouts traditionally served in American holiday meals?
In the United States, Brussels sprouts are a staple side for Thanksgiving and Christmas, often roasted with olive oil, salt, and sometimes maple syrup or bacon for added flavor and caramelization.
What occasions or celebrations is Brussels sprouts traditionally associated with in European cultures?
Brussels sprouts are traditionally served during winter festivals and Christmas Eve meals in many European countries, valued for their ability to stay fresh and flavorful in cold weather.
What authentic ingredients are used in classic Brussels sprouts dishes versus the air‑fryer version on CJ Eats?
Classic recipes often use butter, bacon, or cream sauces, while the CJ Eats air‑fryer version relies on a neutral oil, kosher salt, garlic powder, and a light drizzle of honey to achieve crispness without added fat.
What other American side dishes pair well with the crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts from CJ Eats?
These crispy sprouts pair beautifully with roasted turkey, baked ham, mashed potatoes, or a simple quinoa salad, providing a crunchy contrast to softer mains.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts from CJ Eats?
Common mistakes include overcrowding the basket, not drying the sprouts before coating, and using too much honey which can cause burning. Follow the single‑layer rule and shake the basket halfway through each cycle.
Why does this CJ Eats recipe use a short initial air‑fry followed by a second longer fry instead of a single long cook?
The two‑stage cooking first softens the interior while beginning to crisp the exterior, then the second longer fry finishes the caramelization and achieves the ultra‑crisp texture without over‑cooking the inside.
Can I make the crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can coat the sprouts and keep them refrigerated for up to 2 hours before cooking. After air frying, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and re‑crisp in the air fryer for 2‑3 minutes before serving.
What does the YouTube channel CJ Eats specialize in?
The YouTube channel CJ Eats specializes in quick, approachable home cooking videos that focus on modern kitchen gadgets, especially air fryers, and deliver flavorful, easy‑to‑follow recipes for everyday meals.
How does the YouTube channel CJ Eats' approach to air‑fryer cooking differ from other cooking channels?
CJ Eats emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, precise timing, and technique tips like single‑layer loading and shaking, whereas many other channels may use more elaborate preparations or less focus on crispness optimization.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
