Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Preheat air fryer to 375F.

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.

Optionally, if you want to blanche the sprouts to preserve the green color OR if you want more well-cooked and softer interiors rather than crisp-tender, then blanche them by adding them to boiling water, boil for 3 minutes, promptly remove, drain over a colander, shake them well to remove, and then continue to step 4.

Toss all the Brussels sprouts in 4 tablespoons melted butter.*

Add half the sprouts to your air fryer and air fry for about 8 minutes.

Open the air fryer, toss and flip the sprouts, optionally spray with olive oil cooking spray for extra crispiness, and air fry for approximately 7 more minutes. Tips - If you blanched them, you may need to cook them the full 7 minutes. Start checking after 2 to 3 minutes. Make sure to air fry and cook as necessary in your air fryer given your model, preference, for crispiness, crowding level of your basket, and so forth. Don't be afraid to cook for more or less time, as you deem necessary. You may need to experiment with the exact air frying time.

While waiting, make the glaze in a microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup by combining the remaining 4 tablespoons melted butter with the honey, zest, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and heat for 1 minute on high power.

After the sprouts are done air frying, transfer them to a large bowl, and top with half the glaze, making sure to reserve the remainder for the second round of sprouts.

Optionally, you can air fry the glazed sprouts for 1 to 2 minutes to help set the glaze a bit and lightly caramelize it.

Set the glazed sprouts aside and repeat the process with the other half the raw Brussels sprouts, tossing them in the remaining melted butter, air frying for 8 minutes, flipping and air frying again for about 7 minutes, glazing, and optionally air fryer another 1 to 2 minutes before serving. Brussels sprouts are best warm and fresh. Leftovers will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days although they will not be as crispy. Reheat gently in the microwave or you can attempt to recrisp them a bit by air frying them again for a few minutes. I have never frozen the leftovers.