Air fryer cooking guide
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
How long to cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer — times for fresh and frozen, the right temperature, and how to get caramelised, crispy-edged sprouts.
190°C / 374°F
10–16 min
How long to cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer?
Air fry halved Brussels sprouts at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until the cut sides are deeply caramelised and the edges are crisp. Frozen sprouts take 14–16 minutes. Toss with oil and don't overcrowd the basket.
Air fryer Brussels sprouts win over even the sceptics: the dry heat caramelises the cut faces and turns the loose leaves into crisp little chips. Halve them, oil them, give them room, and they'll be the first thing gone from the plate.
Time & temperature chart
| Size / cut | Temp | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Halved, fresh | 190°C | 10–12 min | Cut-side down |
| Whole small, fresh | 190°C | 13–15 min | Shake twice |
| Frozen | 190°C | 14–16 min | No need to thaw |
| Shredded / leaves | 190°C | 6–8 min | Watch closely |
Times are a guide — air fryers vary by 10–20%. Always cook to the safe internal temperature, not just the timer.
How to air fry Brussels sprouts
- 1
Trim the sprouts and halve them through the root so they hold together.
- 2
Toss with 1 tablespoon of oil, salt and pepper — and a little balsamic or honey if you like.
- 3
Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 3 minutes.
- 4
Spread cut-side down in a single layer and air fry, shaking the basket halfway.
- 5
Cook until the cut faces are caramelised and the loose outer leaves are crisp.
- 6
Finish with a squeeze of lemon, parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Pro tips
- Halving them creates a flat face that caramelises — far better than cooking them whole.
- Those loose, crispy outer leaves are the best part; don't pick them off before cooking.
- A drizzle of honey or maple in the last few minutes balances any bitterness beautifully.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature for Brussels sprouts in an air fryer?
190°C (375°F) caramelises the cut sides and crisps the edges while the centres turn tender, without burning the outer leaves.
How long do Brussels sprouts take in an air fryer?
Halved fresh sprouts take 10–12 minutes at 190°C; frozen take 14–16 minutes. Shake the basket halfway for even browning.
Do you need to boil Brussels sprouts before air frying?
No. Raw halved sprouts go straight in — the air fryer cooks them through and crisps the edges in one step.
Brussels sprouts recipes to try
VegetablesCrispy Balsamic Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Caramelised, lacy-edged Brussels sprouts with a sweet balsamic finish. The vegetable side that disappears first.
VegetablesHow Long to Air Fry Frozen Broccoli at 400°F / 200°C
Air fryer frozen broccoli cooks from frozen in 8–12 minutes at 400°F / 200°C. No thawing needed for a fast crisp-tender side.
VegetablesGolden Halloumi & Courgette Air-Fryer Flatbread Pockets
Warm pita pockets filled with air-fried courgette and golden halloumi, finished with crunchy summer salad and a cool mint yogurt sauce.