As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of caramelization filled the air, transporting me straight to my favorite steakhouse. These Air Fryer Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts are here to elevate your dinner game, turning a once-ignored veggie into a crispy sensation with a sweet and spicy glaze. In just 20 minutes, you can whisk away any lingering doubts about Brussels sprouts being bland and boring! This easy side dish is not only perfect for steak nights but also a delightful complement to any protein on your table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak some greens in your meal without the mushiness that usually comes to mind. Ready to transform your next dinner into a tasty adventure? Let’s dive into this crispy creation!
Why are these Brussels Sprouts so special?
Flavor-packed glaze: The sweet and spicy glaze takes these Brussels sprouts to the next level, imparting a deliciously unique taste that rivals your favorite steakhouse.
Quick & easy: Whip them up in just 20 minutes with minimal effort, making it an ideal option for a weeknight family dinner or an elegant gathering.
Perfectly crispy: Thanks to the air fryer, each sprout emerges golden-brown and irresistibly crispy, ensuring that even veggie skeptics will love every bite!
Versatile serving: They pair wonderfully with steak, chicken, or even tossed in a salad, enhancing any meal while adding a splash of vibrant color.
Make-ahead option: Prep your sprouts and glaze in advance to save time, making these a convenient go-to for any occasion!
Discover how these crispy delights can transform your plate and please every palate by adding them as a side dish to your next dinner!
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – These tender vegetables caramelize beautifully, balancing out their slight bitterness when cooked perfectly.
For the Glaze
• Brown Sugar – Adds a rich sweetness and helps create that irresistible sticky glaze. Coconut sugar can be a great low-GI alternative!
• Water – Used to help blend and dissolve all your glaze ingredients seamlessly.
• Honey – Infuses natural sweetness and depth to the glaze, making those Brussels sprouts sing.
• Calabrian Chilli Paste – Provides a lovely spicy kick; adjust to your spice preference or swap in red pepper flakes for less heat.
• Smoked Paprika – Imparts a subtle smokiness that elevates the flavor profile; you can use sweet paprika in a pinch if needed.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances the overall flavor, though garlic powder can be a quick substitute in smaller amounts.
• Salt – Crucial for enhancing all the flavors; adjust this to suit your taste.
Elevate your dinners with this delicious side dish that brings the restaurant experience right to your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step sets the stage for perfectly crispy Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts. Allow the air fryer to heat for about 5 minutes, which ensures that the Brussels sprouts will achieve that golden-brown exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the air fryer heats up, wash and trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the stem ends and removing any outer leaves that look wilted. Next, slice them in half and place them in a mixing bowl. Lightly spray the halved sprouts with cooking spray, and season them with a sprinkle of salt, tossing to ensure even coverage.
Step 3: Cook the Brussels Sprouts
Once preheated, carefully transfer the seasoned Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even crispness. Look for a golden-brown color and fork tenderness to signal they’re ready to embrace that delicious glaze.
Step 4: Create the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
As the Brussels sprouts cook, it’s time to make the glaze! In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, honey, Calabrian chili paste, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir constantly to dissolve the ingredients. Continue cooking until the glaze thickens and can coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Glaze the Brussels Sprouts
Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly crisp, remove them from the air fryer and place them in a serving dish. Now drizzle the hot sweet and spicy glaze over the sprouts while they are still warm. If desired, give them a gentle toss to ensure every bite is coated with that delicious glaze, familiar to Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Air Fryer Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts are now ready to shine! Serve them warm as a vibrant side dish alongside steak, chicken, or even tossed in salads. The perfect balance of sweetness and spice will elevate any meal while showcasing just how delightful Brussels sprouts can truly be!
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to tailor these Brussels sprouts to your palate and culinary desires with these delightful twists!
- Spicy Alternative: Replace Calabrian chili paste with Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to customize the heat level. This swap brings a fun zing!
- Vegan-Friendly: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan glaze that still delivers sweetness. It’s an excellent way to keep everyone at the table happy!
- Savory Addition: Add chopped crispy bacon to the Brussels sprouts after drizzling with glaze. This extra step adds a smoky richness that’s simply irresistible.
- Nutty Twist: Toss in some roasted almonds or pecans before serving for added crunch and nuttiness. This textural contrast makes each bite even more delightful.
- Creamy Element: Drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction just before serving for a creamy touch that enhances the flavor profile. The tangy sweetness complements the glaze beautifully!
- Garlic Lovers: If you adore garlic, roast whole cloves then toss them with the Brussels sprouts after cooking. This transforms the dish into a garlic extravaganza.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top just before serving for a touch of freshness that brightens the dish. These fragrant notes are like a breath of fresh air!
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze a bit of lemon or lime juice over the glazed sprouts before serving for a refreshing zing that cuts through the sweetness.
Feel free to explore these variations or try combining them for an even more personal touch! For more delicious ideas, check out how to add a crunchy salad topping for extra flair at your next dinner gathering.
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the slightly crispy texture intact while retaining that sweet and spicy glaze.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. This can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispness, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes. This will bring back that delicious crunch, enhancing your Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts experience!
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen sprouts, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
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Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the air fryer basket isn’t packed too tightly; this allows for optimal air circulation, giving your sprouts that crispy texture you crave!
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Thickening the Glaze: Stir the glaze constantly as it heats to avoid burning due to the sugar content. This technique ensures a smooth, luscious coating.
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Batch Cooking: If making larger quantities, cook the sprouts in batches. It takes a little longer, but it guarantees crispy perfection.
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Prepping Ahead: You can prepare Brussels sprouts and glaze a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them before serving for easy meal prep!
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Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to tweak the amount of Calabrian chili paste to suit your palate or substitute with red pepper flakes for a milder kick. Enjoy the versatility!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your dinner experience with a delightful medley of flavors that perfectly complements this crispy side dish.
- Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and savory, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the sweet and spicy glaze of the Brussels sprouts.
- Grilled Ribeye Steak: The richness of a perfectly grilled ribeye enhances the dish, creating a mouthwatering pairing that steak lovers will crave.
- Honey Mustard Chicken: The tangy sweetness of honey mustard chicken works harmoniously with the Brussels sprouts, making every bite a flavor celebration.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, a quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a delightful crunch and freshness that balances out the richness of the glaze.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy glaze of the Brussels sprouts, creating a harmonious blend of flavors on your plate.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing sparkling water adds a fizzy touch, cleansing the palate between bites while elevating the dining experience.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note! The rich, molten center of a chocolate lava cake provides an indulgent contrast to the savory flavors of your dinner.
A lovely combo of textures and flavors awaits, making every meal a memorable one!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance by washing, trimming, and halving them, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sweet and spicy glaze can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply reheat it gently on the stovetop before drizzling over the sprouts. When you’re ready to serve, air fry the prepped Brussels sprouts for 10-12 minutes until crispy, then coat them with the warm glaze. This planning ensures your sprouts remain just as delicious, allowing for a stress-free meal that’s sure to impress!
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What size Brussels sprouts should I choose for the best flavor?
Choose small to medium-sized Brussels sprouts, as these tend to have a better flavor and texture. Look for ones that are firm and compact, avoiding those with dark spots or blemishes, as these could indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftovers of Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts?
Store your leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help preserve their slightly crispy texture while keeping that scrumptious sweet and spicy glaze intact.
Can I freeze Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! For freezing, spread the cooked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the air fryer to maintain that delightful crunch.
What can I do if my glaze isn’t thickening properly?
If your glaze isn’t thickening, try increasing the heat slightly and stir continuously to promote evaporation. If it’s still too runny after about 5-7 minutes, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch in with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Add this to the glaze, stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for making these Brussels sprouts?
Yes, if you’re concerned about heat levels, feel free to adjust the amount of Calabrian chili paste to suit your spice tolerance. Additionally, you can substitute the honey in the glaze with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option. Also, since Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, they might cause gas for some individuals; if you are sensitive, try enjoying them in moderation.
Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and even make the glaze a day in advance. Just store the unglazed sprouts in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook them in the air fryer and glaze them right before mealtime. It’s an excellent way to save time without sacrificing quality!
Crispy Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, slicing them in half.
- Lightly spray halved sprouts with cooking spray and toss with salt.
- Transfer Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the glaze ingredients and cook over medium-low heat until thickened.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooked Brussels sprouts and serve warm.
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