Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Essential
I still remember the first time I tried making Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts on a busy fall evening. I had just returned home exhausted, craving something warm and comforting but not heavy or complicated. Opening the fridge, I found a couple of sweet potatoes and a bag of Brussels sprouts that I had almost forgotten about. Normally, I’d roast them in the oven, but that day I had no patience for a 40-minute wait.
So I tossed everything into the air fryer, hoping for the best. What came out was the crispiest, most caramelized vegetable side I had ever made. The sweet potatoes became tender with golden edges, while the sprouts turned crackly and flavorful. That accidental experiment became a weekly ritual, and over time, I perfected the method you’re about to read.
This guide will show you how to make Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts that’s crisp on the outside, soft inside, and full of rich, balanced flavor. Whether you want a quick dinner side or a healthy meal-prep dish, this recipe delivers every time.
To explore more vegetable-based air fryer ideas, you can also check out recipes like crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts from my collection at crispy air fryer brussels sprouts.
Table of Contents
Why Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts Works So Well
Air fryers excel at high-heat, rapid convection cooking. Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes respond beautifully to this environment, becoming crisp without needing much oil.
The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the earthy bite of Brussels sprouts. When seasoned and air-fried together, the contrast becomes irresistible. This combination also happens to be nutritious, fiber-rich, and incredibly adaptable to different flavor profiles.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for balanced dinners, take a look at healthy air fryer dinners,
which features several vegetable-forward ideas that pair well with chicken, salmon, or even plant-based proteins.
Ingredients for the Perfect Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts
To create the best crispy texture and flavor, start with simple, fresh ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes, diced into small cubes
- Brussels sprouts, halved
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Sea salt
- Ground black pepper
This recipe relies on straightforward pantry spices because the vegetables have bold natural flavors. When cooked at high temperature, the edges caramelize, bringing out incredible depth.
For variations or alternative cuts of sweet potatoes, you may enjoy exploring Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes, especially if you prefer a uniform texture: air fryer sweet potato cubes.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating helps ensure the vegetables crisp up immediately.
Step 2: Season Generously
Place your sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Coat them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly covered.
Step 3: Spread Evenly in the Basket
Arrange the vegetables in a single layer for maximum exposure to heat circulation. Crowding the basket prevents crisping, so cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Air Fry Until Golden
Cook for 14–16 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The sprouts should develop deep, crispy edges, while the sweet potatoes turn tender inside with a toasted exterior.
If you enjoy experimenting with different vegetable combinations, air fryer green beans make an excellent pairing:
air fryer green beans.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 14–16 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the vegetables are crisp on the outside and tender inside.
- Serve hot as a side dish or incorporate into bowls, wraps, or salads.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Flavor Variations You Can Try
The beauty of Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts is how versatile it is. Here are some seasoning ideas to keep things exciting:
Maple Garlic
A small drizzle of maple syrup adds a caramelized sweetness that balances the earthy sprouts.
Chili-Lime
Smoked paprika, chili flakes, and lime zest create a bright, spicy twist.
Parmesan Herb
A dusting of grated Parmesan with Italian herb blend makes this combo even richer.
Honey Mustard
Whisk honey, mustard, and olive oil, then toss before serving for a tangy glaze.
No matter how you season it, this classic mix always offers a great base for dishes with Brussel Sprouts that fit into family dinners or solo meals.
How This Air Fryer Dish Fits Into Dinner
This recipe stands out as a side dish, but it’s also hearty enough to serve as the foundation for a full meal. The balance of complex carbs, fiber, and vitamins makes it nutritious and satisfying.
Protein Pairings
- Air fryer chicken tenders
- Salmon bites
- Turkey burgers
- Grilled tofu
- Roasted chickpeas
Sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness enhances the savoriness of these proteins, while the sprouts provide a welcome crunch and depth.
If you’re in the mood for more crisp vegetable textures, similar ideas can be found in crispy air fryer sweet potato wedges: crispy air fryer sweet potato wedges.
Meal Prep Tips for Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts
This dish is ideal for meal prep because it reheats beautifully. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 370°F for 4–5 minutes, and the vegetables will return to their original crispness.
For pre-portioning meals, divide the vegetables into containers alongside chicken, fish, or plant proteins. Add sauces only when ready to serve to maintain crispness.
This combination also works well in lunch bowls, wraps, or even breakfast skillets. Its versatility makes it perfect for creating varied weekly menus without spending hours cooking.
Troubleshooting for Perfect Crispiness
The Brussels sprouts feel soggy
This usually happens when the basket is overcrowded. Cook in smaller batches for better airflow.
Sweet potatoes burned at the edges
They may have been cut too small or cooked too close to the heating element. Aim for evenly sized cubes.
The texture is soft, not crispy
Increase heat to 400°F and ensure the vegetables are completely dry before seasoning.
The seasoning tastes uneven
Always toss the vegetables in a bowl instead of seasoning them directly in the air fryer basket.
These simple adjustments help you consistently achieve restaurant-quality crispness.
Serving Ideas to Level Up Your Dish
Power Bowls
Add quinoa, avocado, chickpeas, and a creamy tahini dressing.
Savory Breakfast
Top with a fried egg and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Holiday Side
Add dried cranberries and toasted pecans for a festive feel.
Low-Carb Plate
Pair with salmon or grilled chicken and skip starches.
Whether you use it as a quick weeknight side or a special holiday dish, Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts always brings satisfying color, texture, and flavor to the table.
FAQ About Air Fryer Sweet Potato With Brussel Sprouts
Can I cook sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts together in the air fryer?
Yes, they cook evenly as long as the sweet potatoes are cut into smaller cubes.
How long should they cook?
Typically 14–16 minutes at 400°F, shaking halfway.
Are air fryer Brussels sprouts healthier than oven-roasted?
Yes. They use less oil and retain more nutrients while getting crisp faster.
Can I meal-prep this dish?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully in the air fryer.
What flavors pair best?
Garlic, smoked paprika, maple syrup, honey mustard, and Parmesan all work exceptionally well.
I’m obsessed with turning everyday ingredients into crispy, golden perfection one air fryer recipe at a time! From healthy weeknight dinners to indulgent snacks, my kitchen experiments are all about flavor and simplicity. Follow me on Pinterest and Facebook for more easy air fryer meals, quick desserts, and crowd-pleasing snacks that make cooking fun again. Learn more about me here.
