If you’re hunting for the best air fryer for Brussels sprouts, trust me I’ve been down that road more times than I can count. I’ve tested everything from budget models to top-tier brands, all in the name of getting that perfect balance of tender insides and crispy, golden edges.
After countless batches (and a few burnt ones), I’ve figured out which air fryers really deliver. Stick around, because I’m sharing my go-to picks and the little tricks that make Brussels sprouts taste like a five-star side.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall for Brussels Sprouts – COSORI TurboBlaze 6 Qt Air Fryer
- Best for Cooking Two Foods at Once – Ninja Foodi DZ550 Air Fryer
- Best for Everyday Use – Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer
3 Best air fryer for brussel sprouts
1. COSORI TurboBlaze 6 Qt Air Fryer Review
When it comes to air fryers, COSORI has earned a solid reputation for blending style, smart features, and dependable performance. The TurboBlaze 6 Qt feels like the brand’s way of saying, “We’ve listened, and we’ve leveled up.” From the moment you unbox it, you can see the attention to detail—the sleek design, intuitive controls, and a size that fits neatly on most countertops without hogging space.
It’s the kind of appliance you don’t mind leaving out because it doesn’t just cook it looks good doing it.
Cooking with the TurboBlaze is a lot like having a helpful sous-chef who never complains. The powerful 3600 rpm fan makes quick work of crisping veggies, meats, and snacks while keeping the insides juicy.
I’ve turned out perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, tender salmon, and even reheated pizza that tasted better than when it was fresh. It’s quieter than many air fryers, which means you can hold a conversation in the kitchen without raising your voice. And cleanup? A breeze—the basket and crisper tray are nonstick and dishwasher-safe, so you spend more time eating and less time scrubbing.
That said, no appliance is perfect. The TurboBlaze skips a “shake reminder,” which some people like for even cooking, and it doesn’t have a viewing window—so you can’t watch your food crisp up like a reality cooking show. There’s also a learning curve with its higher heat capacity; if you’re not paying attention, you might overdo certain foods until you get the timing right. Still, these feel more like quirks than deal-breakers.
Pros
- Sleek, compact design with a roomy 6-quart basket
- Powerful fan and high heat range for faster, crispier results
- Quieter operation compared to many air fryers
- Easy-to-use controls with adjustable presets
- Dishwasher-safe basket and crisper tray for quick cleanup
Cons
- No “shake reminder” or built-in stirring feature
- No viewing window to watch food cook
- Higher heat can overcook food if timing isn’t adjusted
Final Thoughts
COSORI as a brand has built its reputation on making kitchen gear that’s reliable, good-looking, and user-friendly, and the TurboBlaze is a solid example of that philosophy. It’s not trying to replace your oven—it’s aiming to make everyday cooking faster, tastier, and a little more fun.
If you’re after an air fryer that can handle everything from weeknight dinners to weekend snacks without becoming a countertop eyesore, the TurboBlaze is a smart pick.
2. Ninja Foodi DZ550 Air Fryer Review
The Ninja Foodi DZ550 feels like the air fryer equivalent of having two skillets going on the stove at once—except without the juggling act. With its two independent 5-quart baskets, you can cook chicken on one side and veggies on the other, and both will finish at the same time thanks to the Smart Finish feature. It’s a real lifesaver when you want dinner ready without the “eat one thing while the other is still cooking” problem.
I’ve used it for weeknight meals where speed is everything, and it’s handled crispy fries, juicy salmon, and even reheated pizza without breaking a sweat. The Smart Cook thermometer is a nice touch if you’re the type who worries about overcooking meat—it takes the guesswork out. Build quality feels sturdy, and the controls are clear enough that even a kitchen newbie can figure them out.
That said, the ninja DZ550 isn’t flawless. It’s a big appliance, so it demands counter space, and it’s heavier than you might expect. Some users find that when both baskets are full, cooking can be a bit uneven, so a mid-cook shake or stir is still a good idea. And while the manual’s suggested times are a decent guide, I found myself adjusting them to get my preferred crisp.
Pros
- Two independent baskets for cooking different foods at once
- Smart Finish feature syncs both sides to finish together
- Smart Cook thermometer for perfect doneness
- Large 10-quart capacity—great for families
- Easy-to-use controls with clear presets
Cons
- Large footprint takes up counter space
- Can cook unevenly when both baskets are full
- No built-in shake reminder
Final Thoughts
If you often cook for more than one person—or just like variety in your meals—the Ninja Foodi DZ550 can make your life a lot easier. It’s a solid choice for families, meal preppers, and anyone tired of cooking in shifts. Just make sure you’ve got the counter space and are willing to tweak cooking times to get that perfect crunch.
Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer Review
The Ninja AF161 Max XL feels like that friend who always shows up on time and makes life easier. It’s quick to preheat, simple to use, and turns out crispy fries, golden chicken, and roasted veggies without much fuss. Ninja, as a brand, has built a reputation for making kitchen gear that balances performance with user-friendliness, and this model fits that mold.
The 5.5-quart basket is roomy enough for small families, and the Max Crisp setting delivers that extra crunch you’d normally expect from deep-frying—just without the oil bath.
Using it day-to-day feels effortless. The controls are straightforward, the cooking times are reliable, and cleanup is as simple as tossing the nonstick basket in the dishwasher. It’s the kind of appliance you actually keep on the counter instead of tucking away in a cupboard. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, baking cookies, or trying homemade sweet potato fries, it gets the job done fast.
Of course, no air fryer is perfect. Some users report a faint plastic smell during the first few uses, which usually fades after a couple of cycles. The glossy finish looks sharp but can smudge, and like most nonstick surfaces, you’ll need to be gentle to keep it in good shape. It’s also a single-basket design, so if you’re cooking multiple dishes, you may need to run them in batches.
Pros
- Max Crisp technology for hotter, crispier results
- Large 5.5-quart capacity ideal for 2–4 people
- Easy-to-use digital controls
- Dishwasher-safe, nonstick basket and crisper plate
Cons
- Single basket limits multi-dish cooking
- Exterior can smudge easily
Final Thoughts
The Ninja AF161 Max XL is a dependable, well-rounded air fryer that delivers on its promise of speed and crispiness. It’s great for everyday use, especially if you want an appliance that can replace or at least reduce your oven use. While it’s not without minor quirks, its ease of use, consistent results, and solid brand track record make it a strong choice for anyone wanting to make quick, tasty meals with less oil and less hassle.
Final Verdict
If Brussels sprouts are your go-to side, the COSORI TurboBlaze 6 Qt is hard to beat. It nails that perfect mix of tender centers and crispy edges while being compact, quiet, and easy to clean.
For families or anyone who loves variety in one meal, the Ninja Foodi DZ550 is the ultimate multitasker. Its dual baskets and Smart Finish feature make cooking two different foods at once a breeze.
If you just want a fast, reliable, everyday air fryer, the Ninja AF161 Max XL is a safe bet. It’s simple to use, consistent, and gives you that deep-fried crunch without the mess or extra oil.
All three of our top picks handle Brussels sprouts beautifully, but each has its own strengths depending on your needs.
Best Air Fryer for Brussels Sprouts Buying Guide
When it comes to Brussels sprouts, the right air fryer can mean the difference between soggy and sensational. Here’s what to look for before you buy.
1. Cooking Performance
For Brussels sprouts, you need consistent heat and strong airflow to get that crisp outside and tender inside. Look for models with:
- High max temperature (at least 400°F, ideally up to 450°F)
- Even heat distribution to avoid burnt edges and raw centers
- Adjustable fan speeds for different textures
2. Basket Size & Shape
Crowded baskets steam your sprouts instead of crisping them.
- 4–6 quarts: Good for singles, couples, or small batches
- 6–10 quarts: Best for families or larger servings
- A square basket often gives more usable space than round ones
3. Ease of Cleaning
Brussels sprouts shed leaves that can stick and burn, so quick cleanup is key.
- Nonstick coating for easy wipe-down
- Dishwasher-safe parts to save time
- Removable crisper plates for cleaning out small bits
4. Extra Features
While not essential, these can make cooking sprouts even easier:
- Shake reminder to turn sprouts mid-cook for even browning
- Multiple cooking functions like roast, bake, or dehydrate for versatility
- Dual baskets if you want to cook sprouts and a protein at the same time
5. Brand Reliability & Warranty
Air fryers get frequent use, so choose a brand known for durability and good customer service. Check for:
- At least 1-year warranty
- Read reviews for real-world reliability and support experiences
6. Counter Space & Design
If you plan to keep it on your counter, consider:
- Compact footprint for smaller kitchens
- Attractive finish (matte, stainless, or glossy) if you care about aesthetics
- Weight if you’ll be moving it in and out of storage
Pro Tip: For the crispiest Brussels sprouts, don’t overcrowd the basket, preheat your air fryer, and give them a quick shake halfway through cooking.