There’s something spectacular about the way Brussels sprouts transform in the kitchen, especially when you get the crisp and tender balance just right. Picture this: I opened my air fryer and was welcomed by the irresistible aroma of roasted garlic mingling with the earthy scent of Brussels sprouts. Driven by a craving for something healthier than takeout, I came up with this mouthwatering copycat recipe of Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts. With a unique spicy maple sauce that adds an unexpected kick, you’ll find yourself reaching for more.
This quick, 20-minute air fryer dish is perfect for those evenings when you want a gourmet side without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply elevating a weeknight dinner, these Brussels sprouts shine bright. Get ready to impress your taste buds and unleash your inner chef with a dish that’s bound to be a hit at the table!
Why You’ll Love These Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Perfection: The air fryer effortlessly delivers that satisfying crunch we all crave, ensuring every bite is a delight.
Deliciously Unique Sauce: The spicy maple sauce elevates the dish, combining sweetness and heat for a flavor explosion unlike any other.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when gourmet is the last thing on your mind.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether paired with grilled steak or served at a holiday feast, these Brussels sprouts complement any meal beautifully.
Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with fiber and healthy fats, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence that tastes as good as it looks.
Dive into the world of flavors with this fantastic recipe and discover how easy it is to prepare a copycat version of your favorite restaurant dish!
Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
Get ready for crispy goodness!
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Clean and trim them to achieve the best flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect crispy texture; any neutral oil works as a substitute.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Sea Salt – Elevates the dish’s flavor; adjust the amount to your personal taste preference.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Forms the base of the sauce while adding a creamy richness; for dairy-free, swap in vegan butter.
• Chipotle Chili Powder – Offers a wonderful smokiness with a hint of heat; feel free to use regular chili powder if preferred.
• Smoked Paprika – This adds depth and a slight sweetness; it can be omitted if you don’t have any on hand.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Provides an extra kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Maple Syrup – Balances the spice for a more complex flavor; honey can also be used as a substitute.
• Honey – Further enhances the sweetness of the sauce; optional based on your taste.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
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Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the ends and halving or quartering any larger ones. This helps ensure they cook evenly and allows for better sauce coverage.
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Toss the trimmed Brussels sprouts in a mixing bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, and sea salt. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor and crunch.
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Once heated, place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the fryer basket in a single layer to promote even crisping.
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Air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Keep an eye on them, and check for that perfect golden-brown color around the 10-minute mark.
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Combine in a separate bowl the melted butter, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, red pepper flakes, honey, and maple syrup. Whisk until fully blended for your zesty sauce.
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Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts in the spicy maple sauce immediately after removing them from the air fryer. This ensures every sprout is perfectly coated in that delightful glaze.
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Serve the Brussels sprouts hot for the best texture and flavor. You’ll want to savor that crunchy exterior paired with the spicy, sweet sauce right away!
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts?
These crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts will elevate any dinner table, creating a symphony of taste that lingers on your palate.
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Grilled Steak: A juicy, grilled steak offers richness that balances the sweet and spicy notes of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious contrast you’ll crave.
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Roasted Chicken: The tender and succulent flavors of roasted chicken harmonize beautifully with the Brussels sprouts, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds a light and nutty element to the plate, complementing the savory Brussels sprouts and enhancing the meal with healthy grains.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy sprouts, ensuring every bite is a warm delight.
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Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The added crunch and smoky flavor of bacon-wrapped asparagus will create an exciting taste experience alongside the vibrant Brussels sprouts.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay will elevate the meal, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the maple sauce and enhancing the flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a decadent chocolate mousse; its rich texture will contrast playfully with the crispy greens, leaving everyone satisfied.
Storage Tips for Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store your Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking too many layers to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze any leftovers by first allowing them to cool completely. Place in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible; they can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes. This will help restore their crispy texture while ensuring they remain flavorful.
Serving Suggestions: If you plan to serve these Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels sprouts at a later date, consider preparing the sauce separately and tossing them together before serving to maintain that delightful glaze.
Make Ahead Options
These Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can trim and season the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you’d like to prepare the spicy maple sauce ahead as well, combine all the sauce ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, just air fry the sprouts as directed, toss them with the sauce, and serve. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious, crispy Brussels sprouts with minimal fuss during the week!
Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own; there are so many delicious directions you can take!
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Bacon Boost:
Add crispy bacon bits for bursts of smoky flavor. The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts and savory bacon takes this dish from great to unforgettable. -
Cheesy Twist:
Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the sprouts right after cooking. The melted cheese adds a rich creaminess that perfectly complements the spices. -
Nutty Crunch:
Incorporate chopped almonds or pecans for a touch of extra crunch and nutrition. Nuts will not only enhance the flavor but also give a delightful texture contrast. -
Vegan Delight:
Substitute the butter with a plant-based vegan butter for an entirely vegan version. You won’t lose any of that creamy richness while keeping it plant-based! -
Asian Flair:
Drizzle with some soy sauce or a splash of sesame oil for a unique Asian-inspired flavor twist. The umami notes will beautifully marry with sweetness from the sauce. -
Sweet & Tangy:
Add a splash of balsamic glaze for a tangy contrast to the spicy maple sauce. This will elevate the flavor profile to new heights! -
Herb Infusion:
Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, either before cooking or as a garnish afterwards. This fresh touch adds vibrant flavor and aroma. -
Heat It Up:
For those who love a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add slices of fresh jalapeño. Transform the heat level to suit your taste and ignite your palate!
Helpful Tricks for Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts
• Soak for Crispiness: Soaking Brussels sprouts in cold water for 15 minutes can help improve texture and remove dirt for a fresher taste.
• Space Them Out: Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer to ensure each sprout crisps up beautifully; too close together can cause steaming instead of frying.
• Check Frequently: Shake the basket at least twice while cooking; this promotes even cooking and the perfect golden-brown finish.
• Extra Sauce Tips: Make a bit more sauce than you think you’ll need; drizzling extra spicy maple sauce over leftovers can enhance flavor when reheating.
• Substitutions Matter: If you’re out of an ingredient, don’t worry! For instance, regular chili powder works just as well as chipotle powder in this Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels sprouts recipe.
Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact sprouts that are a vibrant green color. Avoid any with dark spots or wilted leaves, as these might be overripe. Smaller sprouts are generally sweeter and more tender than larger ones, so keep that in mind when you’re shopping.
How should I store leftover Brussels sprouts?
For sure! Store your Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep them separated if you plan on storing them with sauce to maintain their crispy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4-5 minutes until crispy.
Can I freeze cooked Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Brussels sprouts, allow them to cool completely after cooking. Then, place them in freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them directly from the freezer in the air fryer for a crispy result.
What if my Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy enough?
Very relatable! If your Brussels sprouts aren’t crisping up, ensure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Proper spacing is crucial for air circulation. Additionally, shaking the basket halfway through cooking can promote even crisping. If you find them soggy after cooking, try air frying them longer at 400°F in increments of 2-3 minutes until perfect.
Are these Brussels sprouts suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! The Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels sprouts recipe is naturally gluten-free since none of the ingredients contain gluten. Always double-check your butter and any seasonings you use to ensure they are certified gluten-free, especially if you’re accommodating someone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
Can I make variations to the sauce based on my preferences?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can experiment by adding different spices to the sauce or reducing the amount of chipotle chili powder if you prefer a milder flavor. Feel free to incorporate other sweeteners, like agave nectar, if maple syrup or honey isn’t handy! The more, the merrier when it comes to making it your own!
Irresistible Longhorn Steakhouse Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the ends and halving or quartering any larger ones.
- Toss the trimmed Brussels sprouts in a mixing bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, and sea salt.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Combine melted butter, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, red pepper flakes, honey, and maple syrup in a bowl. Whisk until blended.
- Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts in the spicy maple sauce immediately after removing them from the air fryer.
- Serve the Brussels sprouts hot for the best texture and flavor.