Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} are a delightful way to enjoy a vegetable side dish that stands out at any meal! With their crispy texture and sweet soy glaze, these sprouts bring a burst of flavor that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even as a snack. The air fryer not only makes the cooking process quicker but also delivers that irresistible crunch we all love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a deliciously sweet and savory glaze.
• Versatile Side Dish: These brussel sprouts can complement any main course, from grilled chicken to hearty vegetarian dishes.
• Healthier Alternative: Air frying reduces oil usage while still achieving that crispy texture we crave.
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for an even quicker dinner prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential tools needed for making these crispy brussel sprouts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool allows you to achieve that perfect crisp without deep frying, keeping your dish lighter and healthier.
• Saucepan: Essential for preparing the soy glaze; it evenly heats the ingredients to create the perfect consistency.
• Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking in the air fryer, ensuring your brussel sprouts come out perfectly cooked.

Ingredients

To make these flavorful Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts, you’ll need:

For the Brussel Sprouts:

• 2 cups Brussel sprouts (halved)

For the 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

1. Add the halved brussel sprouts to an air fryer basket.
2. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for even cooking.
3. Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

1. While the brussel sprouts are cooking, place all glaze ingredients into a saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Stir frequently to combine everything well.

Step 3: Thicken the Glaze

1. Continue cooking until most of the water evaporates and the mixture thickens significantly.
2. Check consistency by coating a spoon; you should be able to draw a line through it.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Once cooked, transfer your brussel sprouts to a serving dish.
2. Spoon the thickened glaze generously over them.
3. Top with crispy fried onions before serving. Alternatively, toss everything together in a bowl before plating for an even distribution of flavors.

Enjoy this delicious side dish that brings a taste of Red Lobster right into your kitchen with ease!

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

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are not just a side dish; they can be the star of your meal! The sweet and sticky glaze combined with crispy fried onions adds an irresistible crunch. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

At a Family Dinner

• Elevate Your Table: Serve these brussel sprouts alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a delightful family meal.
• Colorful Platter: Arrange the sprouts in a vibrant bowl or platter to brighten up your dinner table.

As Part of a Buffet

• Finger Food Option: Use toothpicks to make them easy to grab and enjoy as part of a buffet spread.
• Dipping Sauce: Offer extra glaze on the side for dipping, making it a fun interactive dish.

With Grilled Meats

• Complementary Pairing: These sprouts go perfectly with grilled chicken or beef, enhancing the flavors of the meats.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an added layer of flavor.

For Meal Prep

• Quick Lunch Option: Pack these sprouts in meal prep containers with rice or quinoa for an easy lunch during the week.
• Reheat Easily: They reheat well in the air fryer, keeping their crispiness intact.

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

Perfecting your brussel sprouts takes just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve the best results.

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm, bright green brussel sprouts for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fry in batches if necessary; this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the sprouts as cooking times may vary based on size; smaller ones may cook faster.
• Experiment with Glaze Consistency: Adjust sugar and soy sauce levels in your glaze for desired sweetness and saltiness.

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

Pairing your brussel sprouts with complementary side dishes can create a delicious meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to crispy brussel sprouts.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light salad with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers can balance out the flavors nicely.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus grilled with olive oil adds freshness and color to your plate.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes bring sweetness that complements the savory brussel sprouts’ glaze.
5. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy option that is quick to prepare; steamed broccoli offers vibrant color and crunch.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry – Tossed veggies in soy sauce add a flavorful Asian twist that pairs well with your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making these tasty Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts in an air fryer is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Incorrectly sized sprouts: Using unevenly sized Brussel sprouts can lead to inconsistent cooking. Try to select sprouts that are similar in size for even frying.
• Skipping the glaze: The sweet and sticky glaze is what makes these sprouts delicious. Don’t skip this step; it adds flavor and depth.
• Overcrowding the basket: Air fryers need space for air circulation. Avoid overcrowding by frying in batches if necessary, ensuring each sprout gets crispy.
• Ignoring cooking times: Different air fryers may have varying temperatures. Keep an eye on your sprouts and adjust the cooking time as needed to avoid burning.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispness. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brussel sprouts in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated 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 will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}.

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute with vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

To thicken the glaze, allow it to simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

What can I serve with these Brussel sprouts?

These sprouts pair well with grilled chicken or beef dishes and can also complement rice or quinoa sides.

Are there any variations I can try?

Feel free to add spices like red pepper flakes for heat or use different oils like olive oil instead of sesame oil for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} are a delightful, crunchy side dish that everyone will love. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors, making them perfect for any meal. Give them a try and enjoy experimenting with different toppings!