Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} are an exciting addition to any meal. They bring a burst of flavor and crunch that fits perfectly as a side dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. The air fryer ensures they come out crispy, while the sweet soy glaze adds a delightful richness. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these brussel sprouts are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Glaze: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a deliciously sticky glaze that elevates the sprouts.
• Versatile Side Dish: These brussel sprouts pair well with various main courses, from grilled chicken to seafood.
• Healthier Cooking Method: Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed while still achieving that crispy texture.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these brussel sprouts are sure to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, you’ll need some essential tools to make your Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool ensures your brussel sprouts get crispy without excessive oil, making them healthier and faster to cook.
• Saucepan: Used for preparing the glaze, it allows for even heating and easy stirring.
• Cooking spray: Helps evenly coat the brussel sprouts, ensuring they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

Ingredients

For the Brussel Sprouts

• 2 cups Brussel sprouts (halved)

For the Soy Glaze

• 1/2 cup Soy sauce
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 tsp Sesame oil
• 1/2 cup Brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Ginger & garlic paste

For Topping

• 1/4 cup French fried onions

How to Make Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

Step 1: Air Fry the Brussel Sprouts

Add the halved brussel sprouts to an air fryer basket.
* Spray them lightly with cooking spray.
* Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

While the brussel sprouts are cooking, prepare your glaze.
* Combine soy sauce, water, sesame oil, brown sugar, and ginger & garlic paste in a saucepan.
* Place over medium-low heat.

Step 3: Thicken the Glaze

Cook the mixture until it thickens.
* Stir occasionally until most of the water evaporates.
* The glaze should coat a spoon well; you should be able to draw a line through it with ease.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the brussel sprouts to a serving dish.
* Spoon the thickened glaze over them generously.
* Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch before serving. Alternatively, toss everything together in a bowl before serving for an even coating.

How to Serve Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. With their crispy texture and sweet soy glaze, they pair wonderfully with various main courses.

As a Standalone Appetizer

• Serve them warm as a tasty finger food at your next gathering.
• Pair with toothpicks for easy serving and eating.

With Grilled Meats

• The sweet glaze complements grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops perfectly.
• Serve alongside for a colorful plate that impresses guests.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Place the glazed sprouts over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty dish.
• This adds fiber and makes for a filling meal option.

In a Salad

• Toss the brussel sprouts into a fresh salad for added crunch.
• They pair well with greens like spinach or arugula, topped with nuts and cheese.

With Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of soy sauce or spicy mayo for dipping.
• This adds an interactive element to the dish, making it even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in these brussel sprouts is essential. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success.

• Choose fresh sprouts: Look for firm, bright green brussel sprouts without blemishes to enhance flavor.
• Cut evenly: Halve the sprouts so they cook uniformly in the air fryer, ensuring even crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd: Air fry in batches if needed; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.
• Adjust cooking time: Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to tweak the cooking time for desired crispiness.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding other garnishes like sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy them right after cooking for optimal crunchiness!

Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These brussel sprouts make an excellent addition to your meal. Here are some great side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes seasoned with garlic enhance your meal’s comfort factor.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots balance the savory notes of the brussel sprouts while adding vibrant color to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings freshness and crunch that pairs well with the crispy texture of the sprouts.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the salty glaze on the sprouts, creating a well-rounded meal.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus offers a lovely earthy flavor that complements the richness of the brussels.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: This indulgent side adds creaminess, creating a delightful contrast with your air-fried veggies.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture while enhancing the dish’s overall healthfulness.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a comforting touch, making every bite satisfying!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the quality of their Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid to ensure a delicious dish!

• Using whole brussel sprouts: Cutting the brussel sprouts in half allows them to cook evenly and gets crispy edges. Always halve them for best results.
• Skipping the cooking spray: Not spraying the sprouts can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Use non-stick spray or oil for a perfect crisp.
• Ignoring the glaze thickness: If you don’t wait until the glaze thickens, it may not coat the sprouts well. Cook until it can coat a spoon and draw a line through it.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Filling the basket too full prevents proper air circulation, leading to soggy sprouts. Cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
• Not seasoning enough: The flavor can be dull without enough seasoning. Always taste and adjust your glaze before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover brussel sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

• Place cooled brussel sprouts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 1-2 minutes on high, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts in the air fryer.

How do I make Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} healthier?

You can reduce sugar in the glaze or use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier version without losing flavor.

Can I use fresh brussel sprouts instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh brussel sprouts provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.

What can I serve with Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}?

These delicious sprouts pair well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish as a side dish.

How long does it take to cook brussel sprouts in an air fryer?

Cooking time is typically between 10-12 minutes at 375°F, but this may vary based on your air fryer model.

Final Thoughts

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are not only flavorful but also easy to prepare! Their crispy texture combined with a sweet soy glaze makes them an appealing side dish for any meal. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or toppings!