Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} are a delightful addition to any meal, making vegetables exciting and tasty! Perfect for parties or family dinners, this recipe showcases how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The air fryer crisps the sprouts just right, while the sweet soy glaze and crispy onions offer a burst of flavor that elevates your dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfect crunch without excess oil, making these brussel sprouts a healthier option.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and savory in the soy glaze adds an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: These brussel sprouts pair wonderfully with various main dishes, from grilled meats to pasta.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their appealing look and delicious taste, they are sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks food quickly while ensuring a crispy texture without deep frying.
• Saucepan: Ideal for preparing sauces, allowing even heating and consistent results.
• Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking in the air fryer, ensuring your brussel sprouts come out perfectly cooked.

Ingredients

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are a delicious, flavourful way to include vegetables as a side dish! The air fryer crisps up these brussel sprouts perfectly. Topped with a sweet and sticky soy glaze, and savoury crispy fried onions, these sprouts are packed with flavour and crunch!

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 into an air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10-12 minutes until they are crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

While the brussel sprouts are cooking, prepare the soy glaze. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all glaze ingredients:
1. Pour in soy sauce
2. Add water
3. Mix in sesame oil, brown sugar, and ginger & garlic paste

Step 3: Thicken the Glaze

Continue to cook the glaze until most of the water evaporates and it thickens. You should be able to coat a spoon with it, leaving a clear line when drawn through.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once your brussel sprouts are done cooking, transfer them to a serving dish. Spoon the thickened glaze over them and top with crispy fried onions. Alternatively, you can toss everything together in a bowl before serving for an even coating of flavors.

Enjoy your flavorful Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts as an enticing side dish that brings joy to your table!

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

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts make a fantastic side dish that pairs well with many meals. Their sweet and savory flavor profile, combined with a crispy texture, enhances any dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Chicken: The rich flavors of grilled chicken complement the sweetness of the soy glaze.
• Steak: A juicy steak pairs well, adding a hearty touch to your plate.
• Pork Chops: The savory notes of pork work beautifully with the brussel sprouts.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: This classic dip adds creaminess that balances the crispy sprouts.
• Chili Sauce: For a kick, serve with chili sauce for those who love heat.
• Soy Sauce: A drizzle of extra soy sauce enhances the umami flavor.

Make it a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss the brussel sprouts into a salad for added crunch and nutrition.
• Quinoa Salad: Combine them with quinoa for a protein-packed meal.

Add Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the glaze.

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

Perfecting your Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh vegetables yield better texture and taste than frozen ones.
• Cut Evenly: Halve each sprout evenly for consistent cooking and crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air circulation is key; cook in batches if necessary to avoid sogginess.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Size: Larger sprouts may need more time in the air fryer, so keep an eye on them.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices or herbs to personalize your flavor profile.
• Let Them Rest After Cooking: Allowing them to sit for a few minutes helps retain crispiness.

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

These brussel sprouts make an excellent addition to various dishes. Here are some side dishes that pair perfectly with them.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic enhance any meal’s comfort level.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of brussel sprouts beautifully.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy classic provides richness that balances the sprouts’ crunch.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs excellently with soy-glazed flavors.
6. Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add color and additional sweetness to your plate.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs offers a gentle backdrop for the flavorful brussels sprouts.
8. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw brings freshness and acidity that brightens up your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts in an air fryer, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Halving: Not halving your brussel sprouts can lead to uneven cooking. Always cut them in half for a uniform texture.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Filling the air fryer basket too full prevents proper airflow. Cook in batches if necessary for crispiness.
• Neglecting the Glaze Timing: Waiting too long to prepare the glaze can result in overcooked sprouts. Make it while the sprouts are air frying for best results.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: A good soy sauce enhances flavor. Opt for high-quality brands to elevate your dish.
• Not Adjusting Cooking Time: Each air fryer varies, so adjust cooking times based on your specific model for perfectly cooked sprouts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These brussel sprouts last up to 3 days in the fridge.

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 to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To achieve crispy brussel sprouts, ensure they are well spaced in the air fryer and consider lightly spraying them with oil before cooking.

Can I use frozen brussel sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and pat them dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture.

How long do Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} take to cook?

They typically take about 10-12 minutes at 375°F in an air fryer, but check them regularly as cooking times may vary by model.

What can I serve with these brussel sprouts?

These flavorful sprouts pair well with grilled meats or fish, and can also complement rice dishes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are not only packed with flavor but also provide a versatile side dish that complements many meals. Feel free to customize the glaze by adding spices or using different toppings like nuts or herbs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful twist on your vegetable side!