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Air Fryer Paleo Herb-Crusted Venison Medallions with Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Savor tender venison medallions coated in a paleo herb crust, air-fried to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy center, served with garlicky, crisp Brussels sprouts. This gluten-free, high-protein main course is quick, easy, and ideal for healthy weeknight dinners or family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb venison medallions (about 4 pieces, roughly 4 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons almond flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (200ºC) for about 5 minutes while prepping ingredients.
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In a shallow bowl, mix almond flour, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper to create the paleo herb crust.
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Pat dry the venison medallions. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over them and press the herb crust mixture evenly on all sides to adhere.
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Toss halved Brussels sprouts with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, sliced garlic, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl until evenly coated.
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Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400ºF for 8 minutes, shaking halfway to ensure even crisping.
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After 8 minutes, move Brussels sprouts to the basket edges to free space in the center for the venison medallions.
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Add the herb-crusted venison medallions to the basket center. Air fry everything together at 400ºF for 7 to 9 minutes, flipping the venison halfway, until cooked to medium-rare (internal temperature ~135ºF) or your desired doneness.
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Remove venison and Brussels sprouts. Let venison rest 5 minutes to retain juices.
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Optionally, garnish Brussels sprouts with lemon zest and sprinkle chopped parsley over venison for a fresh finish.
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Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy herb-crusted venison with savory garlic roasted Brussels sprouts.
Tips
Air Fryer Model Notes
Cook Air Fryer Paleo Herb-Crusted Venison Medallions with Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts 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 venison medallions 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. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a thermometer instead of relying only on color.
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 Paleo Herb-Crusted Venison Medallions with Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts 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 venison medallions (about 4 pieces 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 the Air Fryer Paleo Herb-Crusted Venison Medallions with Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts to suit your dietary needs or ingredient availability with these paleo-friendly substitutions:
- Venison: Swap with lean alternatives like bison, beef tenderloin, or lamb medallions for similar flavor and protein.
- Almond flour: Use coconut flour (reduce quantity) or ground flaxseed for nut-free paleo options; gluten-free breadcrumbs work for a non-paleo alternative.
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme): Use dried herbs (reduce amount) or herbes de Provence and Italian seasoning blends for comparable flavors.
- Garlic powder: Substitute with fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor or garlic-infused olive oil.
- Smoked paprika: Replace with regular paprika for milder taste or add cayenne pepper for spice.
- Olive oil: Avocado or macadamia nut oils are paleo-friendly alternatives with high smoke points.
- Brussels sprouts: Try halved asparagus, broccoli florets, or green beans tossed with garlic and oil if preferred.
- Garnishes: Substitute lemon zest and parsley with chopped cilantro, chives, or nutritional yeast for savory umami flavors.
These swaps keep the recipe paleo, gluten-free, healthy, and family-friendly while allowing for flexibility based on pantry or taste.
Storage
Store leftover Air Fryer Paleo Herb-Crusted Venison Medallions with Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts 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.
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