Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts

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The Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts made in the air fryer are the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, all wrapped up in a delightfully crispy exterior. With just a few simple ingredients and under 20 minutes, this dish transforms everyday Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping side. The natural caramelization from the maple syrup and the zing from Dijon mustard make every bite unforgettable.

Ideal for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or potluck gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser even among Brussels sprouts skeptics. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily fit into low-carb or plant-based diets. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy vegetable side or a festive addition to your table, these Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts deliver on both flavor and convenience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Directions:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.
Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts back to the mixing bowl and drizzle with the maple Dijon glaze. Toss well to coat.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 140 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Brussels sprouts have undergone a serious glow-up in recent years. Once considered bland and bitter, they’ve now found their way into the hearts (and menus) of food lovers across the globe especially when roasted or crisped to perfection. One of the most irresistible renditions of this misunderstood vegetable is the Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts made in the air fryer. This recipe marries the earthy, nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts with a glossy glaze of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard, creating a gourmet-level side dish with minimal effort.

What makes this dish stand out isn’t just the flavor. It’s the perfect caramelized texture, the ease of using the air fryer, and the versatility of the glaze that complements almost any main course. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a festive holiday spread, or just need a quick healthy snack, this dish delivers deliciousness in under 20 minutes.

Why the Air Fryer is a Game-Changer for Brussels Sprouts

If you’ve ever roasted Brussels sprouts in the oven, you know that it can take 30 to 40 minutes to get that golden, crispy texture. The air fryer cuts that time in half while still producing that same outer crispiness with a soft, tender center. It’s efficient, easy to clean, and doesn’t heat up the entire kitchen a huge plus during warmer months or when juggling multiple dishes during the holidays.

Another bonus? The compact basket of the air fryer allows for even circulation of hot air around each sprout, ensuring a uniform roast without needing to constantly flip or stir. This consistency makes every bite deliciously crisp, without any soggy or burnt spots.

Flavor Fusion: The Magic of Maple and Dijon

What really elevates this dish is the glaze. Maple syrup brings a subtle sweetness that balances out the slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts. It helps the exterior caramelize beautifully, while Dijon mustard adds sharpness and depth, enhancing the complexity of the dish. The addition of apple cider vinegar cuts through the richness and helps brighten the overall flavor.

This flavor combination is classic and sophisticated, often found in upscale restaurant menus. Yet in this recipe, it’s entirely approachable and quick to prepare, making gourmet flavors accessible to home cooks of any skill level.

Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Not only are Brussels sprouts tasty when prepared well they’re also a nutritional powerhouse. These little green globes are:

Rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and satiety.
High in vitamins K and C, which promote bone strength and immunity.
Loaded with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and chronic disease.
Low in calories but high in nutrients, making them a perfect choice for balanced meals.

When air-fried instead of pan-fried or oven-roasted in excessive oil, you also cut down on unnecessary fat, preserving the health benefits while still getting great flavor.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts

These Brussels sprouts are extremely versatile. Here are just a few occasions where they shine:

Holiday Meals: Their rich glaze and impressive appearance make them a natural addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter spreads.
Weeknight Dinners: Quick enough to prepare on busy evenings and pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken, pork, or salmon.
Potlucks and Gatherings: Easy to transport and serve, this dish is often a surprise hit at parties.
Vegetarian Meals: They stand alone as a hearty and satisfying side for any plant-based menu.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve With

The sweet and tangy flavor profile of this dish pairs beautifully with both mild and bold proteins. Try them with:

Roasted chicken or turkey
Pork tenderloin with herbs
Baked salmon or trout
Quinoa or lentil salad
Wild rice pilaf or couscous

They also go exceptionally well with other roasted or sautéed vegetables, making for a cohesive and comforting vegetable platter.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

These Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer when they’re at their crispiest. However, if you’re preparing for a big meal and want to get ahead:

Make Ahead: Air fry them without the glaze a few hours in advance. When ready to serve, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes and toss with the glaze just before plating.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore some of the crispness.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture becomes too soft when thawed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the best results, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

Overcrowding the basket: Give the Brussels sprouts enough room to crisp up. If needed, cook in batches.
Skipping the shake: Shaking the basket halfway through helps ensure even browning on all sides.
Using too much glaze upfront: Applying the glaze before cooking can cause burning due to the sugars in maple syrup. Always toss the sprouts in the glaze after air frying.
Not trimming properly: Remove the tough stem end and any yellowed outer leaves for a better final texture and taste.

Variations and Add-Ons

While the basic version is already fantastic, here are a few ways to customize it:

Add chopped bacon for a smoky flavor.
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese for an umami boost.
Include crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
Use honey instead of maple syrup for a floral sweetness.

These tweaks can help you tailor the dish to your preference or suit the rest of the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform everyday vegetables into something extraordinary. It’s:

Quick and easy—ready in just 20 minutes
Full of flavor—with a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory
Healthy and nourishing—low-calorie, high-fiber, and antioxidant-rich
Versatile and customizable—with plenty of options for add-ins and pairings
Perfect for any occasion—from holidays to quick weekday meals

Even if you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts, this version might just change your mind. It’s flavorful, balanced, and has that addictive crispiness that keeps you going back for more.

Conclusion: A Must-Try for Veggie Lovers and Skeptics Alike

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Air Fryer Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts recipe is a guaranteed win. It’s the kind of dish that makes vegetables exciting again. With bold flavors, great texture, and a quick cook time, it’s hard not to love this recipe.

Perfectly suitable for holidays, weeknight meals, or even just as a healthy snack, this dish proves that Brussels sprouts deserve a regular spot on your table. Once you try them with the maple Dijon glaze, you’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again.

So fire up that air fryer and let your taste buds enjoy the sweet-savory magic.