Boiled sprouts are why people think they hate sprouts. Air fried, they char at the edges and turn nutty and sweet — a completely different vegetable. Here's how to win the table over.
Key takeaways
Q: How long do Brussels sprouts take in an air fryer?
A: Air fry halved sprouts at 190°C (375°F) for 10–14 minutes, shaking once, until charred and crisp at the edges.
Q: How do you stop sprouts being bitter?
A: Charring them is the trick — the high, dry heat sweetens them. A drizzle of balsamic or honey at the end balances any bitterness.
Times & temperatures
| Prep | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Halved | 190°C / 375°F | 10–14 min |
| Whole (small) | 190°C / 375°F | 14–16 min |
| From frozen | 190°C / 375°F | 14–18 min |
The recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 400g Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt & pepper
Method
- Toss the halved sprouts with oil and seasoning.
- Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–14 minutes, shaking once.
- Drizzle with balsamic for the last minute.
- Serve straight away while crisp.
Tips
- Halve them so the cut side chars and crisps.
- Don't overcrowd — a single layer is the difference between crisp and steamed.
- Pair with honey-glazed parsnips for the full roast — see the roast dinner guide.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my air fryer sprouts not crispy?
Overcrowding or leaving them whole. Halve them and cook in a single layer so the cut sides char and crisp.
Can you cook frozen Brussels sprouts in an air fryer?
Yes — cook from frozen at 190°C for 14–18 minutes, shaking once. They won't char quite as hard as fresh but still crisp up well.
How do you make sprouts taste good?
Charring them in the air fryer sweetens them, and a finish of balsamic, honey or crispy bacon balances any bitterness.