Description
These Air Fryer Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts are a deliciously crispy and flavorful side dish featuring a sweet and tangy maple-Dijon glaze, smoky paprika, and crunchy pecans. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, they come out caramelized, tender on the inside, and with a delightful punch of spice and garlic. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe makes a healthy and elegant addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Maple Dijon Glaze
- 1 Tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- ½ cup pecan halves or pieces
- Flaky sea salt, for serving
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Maple Dijon Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, avocado or olive oil, smoked paprika, fine sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and ground cayenne pepper if using. This mixture will coat the Brussels sprouts with a flavorful glaze.
- Toss Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl with the maple Dijon glaze. Toss thoroughly to ensure each sprout is evenly coated with the mixture for maximum flavor.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Using kitchen tongs, place the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding by working in batches if necessary to promote even cooking and crispiness. Set aside any leftover maple mixture for later use.
- Air Fry Initial Batch: Air fry the Brussels sprouts at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. This initial cooking stage softens the sprouts and begins crisping their edges.
- Add Garlic and Pecans: After 10 minutes, open the air fryer and add the chopped garlic and pecan halves or pieces to the basket. Drizzle the reserved maple Dijon mixture over the top to enhance flavor as they finish cooking.
- Continue Air Frying: Air fry for an additional 5 minutes, until the garlic is golden and fragrant, and the Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized to your liking.
- Serve: Remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt for added texture and flavor. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately for best taste and crispness.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and get crispy.
- If your air fryer is small, cook in batches and keep cooked sprouts warm in a low oven.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your desired spice level or omit for less heat.
- Use pecans for a nutty crunch; walnuts or almonds could be substituted.
- Leftover Brussels sprouts can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but are best eaten fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American