Name: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Smoked Sausage
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts; 2 Beef smoked sausage links; 1 tablespoon Olive oil; ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; ½ teaspoon Black pepper; Drizzle balsamic glaze (optional)

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Air fryer brussel sprouts are perfectly seasoned and tossed with savory sausage. This easy and delicious side dish is perfect for holidays and casual dinners.

If you want to stick to the oven, check out my Roasted Balsamic Glazed Brussel Sprouts.

close up view of air fryer brussel sprouts

Learn how to air fry brussel sprouts and you will always have a side dish ready to go! We get the satisfying crunch of the outer leaves, mixed with the savory, mouthwatering taste of sliced beef sausage. It is a great, filling side dish during the holidays but I also love it as a low-carb lunch.

Why you will love Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts:

Quick & Easy! I pop these in the air fryer when I need something simple and nutritious. They are ready in 20 minutes.

SO Versatile! Enjoy them for lunch or as a filling side at dinner. Feel free to switch up the seasoning, the meat, and even the glaze.

Amazing Texture! Say no to soggy brussels sprouts! Air fryer brussel sprouts have a crispy caramelized exterior but remain fork tender at the center.

Ingredients for Brussel Sprouts Air Fryer Recipe

To make brussel sprouts in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

Brussels sprouts: Slice them in half for quicker cooking and to ensure they get beautifully crisp on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. They are packed with vitamins and fiber for a nutritious side to any meal.
Beef smoked sausage links: Add this protein for a rich, smoky flavor. It contributes a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the brussels sprouts and seasonings.
Olive oil: This is how I ensure the brussel sprouts and sausage brown evenly in the air fryer.
Seasoning: I use a harmonious blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Drizzle balsamic glaze: This is optional but hear me out! It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory elements of the dish. Balsamic glaze also provides a beautiful glossy finish, making the dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Air Fry Brussel Sprouts

Cut the ends off each Brussels sprout, then halve them lengthwise and place them in a bowl.

Next, slice the smoked sausage into ¼-inch coins and set them aside.

Drizzle the olive oil over the Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

halved and seasoned brussels sprouts in a bowl

Add the sliced smoked sausage to the bowl and use tongs or a large spoon to mix everything together until the seasonings are fully incorporated.

raw brussel sprouts in a bowl with sausage slices

Transfer the Brussels sprouts and sausage into the air fryer basket. Cook at 325ºF for 10 minutes. Remove the basket from the air fryer, flip the Brussels sprouts and sausage, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on your preferred level of tenderness.

brussel sprouts and sausage in a foil lined air fryer basket

Once done, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and enjoy!

Tips and Variations for Brussel Sprouts in Air Fryer

To make sure everything cooks at an even rate, I cut my brussel sprouts and sausage roughly the same size. It’s also a great way to ensure that you get to taste both elements in each bite.
Remember to flip the brussel sprouts about halfway through so they cook evenly.
Swap the beef sausage for chopped chopped, raw bacon if you prefer. And of course, you can make this dish vegetarian by removing the meat altogether.
You can use frozen sprouts if that is what you have access to. It just takes additional time (maybe 5 minutes; check after the first 10 minutes). Just keep in mind, that they may not be as crispy.
Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots would be great additions. Just cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
For even more flavor, try topping the cooked brussel sprouts with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them at 350 degrees F in the air fryer until warmed through.

FAQ

Some recipes include instructions for soaking brussel sprouts in water for 10 minutes before cooking. This softens the middle of the veggie. It’s not right or wrong, it just depends on your preference. However, I find that if you don’t cook them for too long and slice them in half, you get a crisp coating while still achieving a softer center.

If your air fryer brussel sprouts are not getting crispy, your temperature may be too low. Never roast them whole and use enough oil to coat the veggies (but not soak them) for a crispier finish.

Yes, it is generally better to cut Brussels sprouts before roasting. Halving or quartering them ensures they cook more quickly and evenly, producing a crisp exterior and tender interior. Cutting them also allows for better absorption of seasonings, enhancing their flavor.

Cook the halved brussel sprouts in the air fryer at 325ºF for 10 minutes. Then, remove the basket, flip the Brussels sprouts, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of tenderness.

The Brussels sprouts are done when they are tender on the inside and crispy on the edges. You can check for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be easily pierced but not mushy.

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