Air Fryer Cooking Guides
Airfryfeast
Air Fryer Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Pecans
By Airfryfeast Test KitchenReviewed by Airfryfeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 12, 2026 · Updated Jun 16, 2026
American
23 mins
air-fryer-friendlyhealthyeasygluten-freevegetarianvegancrispsweetsavory30-minutes-or-lessfamily-friendlybudget-friendlyv2
Enjoy a deliciously crispy and sweet-savory side dish with these Air Fryer Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts topped with crunchy toasted pecans. Faster than oven roasting and glazed with pure maple syrup, this healthy, vegan-friendly, gluten-free recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Prep
8 min
Cook
15 min
Total
23 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
American
Ingredients
Servings
4
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/3 cup pecan halves
- Optional
- pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
Instructions
-
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
-
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
-
Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
-
Cook for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
-
While the Brussels sprouts cook, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Check the Brussels sprouts for tenderness and crispiness after 12 minutes; cook an additional 2–3 minutes if a crispier texture is preferred.
-
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl, sprinkle the toasted pecans on top, and gently toss to combine.
-
Serve warm as a flavorful, healthy, and vegan side dish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite main courses.
Tips
Air Fryer Model Notes
Cook Air Fryer Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Pecans in a single layer when possible. Basket models may need batches; oven-style models may need a tray rotation halfway through for even browning.
Crispiness Control
Pat the brussels sprouts dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.
Doneness Cues
Look for browned edges, a hot center, and the texture described in the instructions.
Reheat In The Air Fryer
Reheat leftovers at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Air Fryer Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Pecans ahead of time?
- You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
- How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?
- Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
- Can I adjust the seasoning?
- Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.
- How do I know the brussels sprouts is done?
- Use the visual cues in the instructions first: the outside should be browned or crisp and the center should be hot and tender. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a food thermometer.
Ingredient Replacements
Customize this Air Fryer Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs with these substitutions:
- Brussels Sprouts: Use halved baby broccoli or broccolini for similar texture and a slightly different flavor.
- Olive Oil: Substitute avocado oil or light vegetable oil for a mild, healthy option.
- Pure Maple Syrup: Swap with agave nectar or brown rice syrup for vegan sweeteners; use sugar-free maple-flavored syrup for a low sugar option.
- Kosher Salt: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used interchangeably.
- Smoked Paprika: Replace with regular paprika or chipotle powder for varied smoky or spicy notes.
- Pecan Halves: Toasted walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds work well as crunchy, gluten-free alternatives.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Omit for mild flavor or use cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
All substitutions maintain this recipe’s core qualities: air-fryer-friendly, vegan, gluten-free, healthy, quick, easy, and family-friendly. Adjust as needed based on available ingredients and taste!
Storage
Store leftover Air Fryer Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Pecans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.
Freeze only if the main ingredient and coating are freezer-friendly. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in the air fryer at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating for the best flavor.
Related Articles
Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.
Air Fryer Cooking Guides
Air Fryer Desserts: Crisps, Cakes, and Cozy Treats
More Recipes
Explore more recipes you may like.
Reviews
Rate this recipe and share a photo of your result.
No reviews yet.
Save this recipe
Log in to keep this recipe in your favorites.
Reset password Register