Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these air-fryer brussels sprouts are tossed in a rich brown butter balsamic sauce and topped with smoky bacon. They make the perfect side dish for weeknights or holidays.
This recipe is one I love for its simplicity and bold flavor. It's a nice change from the usual roasted sprouts and pairs beautifully with chicken, pork, or steak. If you enjoyed my Sriracha Maple Delicata Squash, you'll appreciate the sweet and savory balance here.
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Why You'll Love Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Quick cooking: the air fryer gives you crispy sprouts in just 10 minutes.
Bold flavor: brown butter, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce make a rich, savory coating.
Versatile dish: perfect for everyday dinners or a holiday side.
Key Ingredients
See the recipe card at the bottom of this post for a full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Brussels sprouts: fresh, trimmed, and halved for even cooking.
- Olive oil: helps the sprouts crisp in the air fryer.
- Brown butter: adds a nutty, rich flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar: a touch of tang that balances the richness.
- Soy sauce: brings a savory depth of flavor.
- Bacon: optional, but adds a smoky touch.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium option.
- Swap turkey bacon for a lighter take.
- Try avocado oil in place of olive oil.
Variations on Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Parmesan style: toss with grated parmesan cheese before serving.
- Spicy kick: add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Sweet glaze: stir in a touch of honey or maple syrup with the butter sauce.
Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
- Dry well: moisture prevents crisping, so pat sprouts dry before tossing with oil and air frying.
- Don't crowd: give sprouts space in the air fryer basket for even crisping.
- Flip halfway: ensures both sides get browned and crunchy.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
Serve With...
These air-fryer brussels sprouts go great with Air Fryer Turkey Breast and Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a complete meal. They also make a great side to my Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich recipe or Quick ad Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches for a lunch option.
More Easy Vegetable Recipes to Try
If you enjoy flavorful vegetable sides, you'll like my Air Fryer Zucchini Fries, Sweet Chili Cauliflower, Air Fryer Broccolini, and Crispy Accordion Potatoes.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Butter
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Ingredients
- 1 pound brussels sprouts
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 4 slices bacon , cooked crisp (optional)
Instructions
- Place the brussels sprouts in a large bowl and cover with warm tap water. Allow to sit for 10 minutes.
- Drain the sprouts and lightly pat dry with a paper towel. Dry out the bowl the sprouts were soaking in and return the dry sprouts to the bowl.
- Drizzle the brussels sprouts with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat.
- Cook the brussels sprouts in the air fryer for 5 mins at 400 degrees. Pull out the trays and flip the sprouts over. Cook an additional 5 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy and just tender enough to stab with a fork.
- While the brussels sprouts are air frying, warm the butter in a small saucepan over medium high heat. Cook until the butter begins to bubble and begins to turn brown. Remove the butter from the heat and stir in the soy sauce and balsamic vinegar.
- Transfer the brussel sprouts to the butter sauce and toss to coat. Place the sprouts in a serving dish and sprinkle with crispy bacon.
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