LongHorn Copycat Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Sweet, Smoky, and Crispy

There’s nothing quite like a fantastic restaurant side dish that completely steals the show. On a recent birthday celebration at LongHorn Steakhouse, I discovered just such a gem: their incredible Brussels sprouts! The moment I tasted them, I knew I had to recreate that magic at home. That irresistible blend of crispy caramelization, tender centers, and a perfectly balanced sweet-smoky-spicy glaze became my mission. After some delicious experimentation, I’m thrilled to share this copycat **LongHorn Brussels sprouts recipe**, specifically tailored for your air fryer, so you can enjoy this steakhouse favorite whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe

This air fryer copycat LongHorn Brussels Sprouts recipe is a game-changer for so many reasons. Imagine savoring that signature restaurant flavor without ever having to leave your kitchen! It truly brings the steakhouse experience right to your dining table, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.

One of the top reasons to adore this recipe is the incredible texture it delivers. Thanks to the air fryer, you achieve an irresistible caramelized crispiness on the outside of each sprout, while the insides remain wonderfully tender with a delightful, nutty sweetness. This contrast is exactly what makes LongHorn’s version so addictive, and our copycat nails it every time.

Beyond texture, the flavor balance is simply divine. Each Brussels sprout is coated in a honey glaze and a custom seasoning blend that hits all the right notes: smoky, sweet, savory, and with just the perfect touch of spice. This complex profile ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, leaving everyone at the table reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). It’s the kind of side dish that could easily become the star of your meal.

Another fantastic aspect is its versatility. Crispy Brussels sprouts, especially with such a vibrant flavor profile, make an impressive side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any main course. Think juicy steaks, succulent chicken, tender pork loin, or even a hearty plant-based entrée. It elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary, adding a gourmet touch without the fuss.

Despite feeling fancy and looking like it took hours to prepare, this recipe couldn’t be easier. With minimal ingredients and the magic of your air fryer, you can effortlessly recreate a steakhouse-worthy side dish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special, for holiday spreads when you need a reliable crowd-pleaser, or for simply impressing guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Plus, by making it at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing for customization to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s a truly rewarding recipe that delivers big on flavor and convenience.

Essential Ingredients for Your Copycat LongHorn Brussels Sprouts

Creating these delightful LongHorn copycat Brussels sprouts requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing that distinctive sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile that makes this dish so memorable. You’ll be amazed at how easily these come together to create a restaurant-quality experience at home.

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1/4 cup butter (4 Tbsp; ½ stick)
• 1 tablespoon smoky Calabrian chili rub
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/3 cup honey
• 3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar

Step-By-Step Instructions for Air Fryer LongHorn Brussels Sprouts

Making these copycat LongHorn Brussels sprouts in your air fryer is incredibly simple and efficient. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly crispy, glazed sprouts every time:

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts and First Seasoning Batch: Begin by melting half of the butter in a large mixing bowl. I find a quick 30-second burst in the microwave usually does the trick. Once melted, add your halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl. Sprinkle in half of your smoky Calabrian chili rub and half of the sea salt. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure each sprout is evenly coated with the seasoned butter. This initial coating is crucial for building flavor and ensuring proper caramelization.

2. Load the Air Fryer: Carefully transfer the seasoned Brussels sprouts into your air fryer basket or onto the rack. The key here is to arrange them in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent proper air circulation and result in steaming rather than crisping. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain that single layer for optimal results.

3. Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the Brussels sprouts on the air fry setting at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. After the initial cooking time, give the basket a good shake or stir the sprouts with a spatula to ensure even crisping. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sprouts are beautifully golden brown, crisp on the edges, and tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them during this second phase, as cooking times can vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model and the size of your Brussels sprouts.
4. Prepare the Signature Honey Butter Glaze: While the sprouts are air frying, you can prepare the irresistible glaze. In a small bowl, melt the remaining half of the butter. Once melted, stir in the honey, granulated sugar, and the remaining half of your smoky Calabrian chili rub and sea salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar completely dissolves and the sauce is smooth and well combined. This is where the magic happens, creating that characteristic sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy finish.

5. Glaze and Serve: Once your Brussels sprouts are perfectly crispy and cooked through, transfer them back to the large mixing bowl (or a clean serving bowl if you prefer). Pour the warm honey butter sauce over the sprouts and toss gently to ensure every single sprout is beautifully coated in the glossy, flavorful glaze. If you prefer, you can also warm the sauce slightly and serve it on the side for dipping. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade copycat LongHorn Brussels sprouts!

Perfect Pairing Suggestions for Your LongHorn Brussels Sprouts

These sweet, smoky, and crispy Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide array of dishes. Here are some suggestions to help you create a truly unforgettable meal, just like at your favorite steakhouse.

Main Dishes that Shine with Brussels Sprouts

• Grilled or Smoked Steak: This is a classic pairing for a reason! The rich, charred, and savory flavors of a perfectly cooked steak (whether grilled, seared, or reverse-seared) create an exquisite harmony with the sweet and spicy glaze of the Brussels sprouts. It’s the ultimate steakhouse experience at home.
• Roasted or Air-Fried Chicken: Whether it’s a whole roasted chicken, juicy chicken thighs, or crispy air-fried chicken breasts, the Brussels sprouts’ glaze adds a wonderful punch of flavor and a welcome moisture contrast to tender poultry. For an extra special treat, try my Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken for a truly complimentary main!
• Pork Tenderloin or Chops: The natural sweetness of pork is a magnificent match for the honey-chili glaze. Grilled or pan-seared pork tenderloin or thick-cut pork chops will absorb the flavors beautifully, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
• Salmon or Trout: Don’t shy away from pairing these sprouts with fish! The mild richness of salmon or trout provides a lovely balance to the boldness and spice of the Brussels sprouts, creating a sophisticated and flavorful combination. Try it with a simple pan-seared or baked fish for a lighter, yet incredibly satisfying, dinner.

Complementary Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy and mild nature of mashed potatoes offers a soothing counterpoint to the chili spice, acting as a perfect canvas to absorb all the wonderful flavors.
• Parmesan Risotto or Mac and Cheese: The rich, cheesy goodness of risotto or a decadent mac and cheese contrasts beautifully with the caramelized glaze and slight bitterness of the sprouts, making for a truly indulgent meal.
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: For another layer of sweetness and crispiness, sweet potato fries tie in perfectly with the honey glaze of the Brussels sprouts, creating a cohesive and satisfying side dish duo.

Beverage Pairings

• Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel: These full-bodied red wines, with their dark fruit notes and often spicy undertones, beautifully complement the sweet heat and umami flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Amber Ale or Brown Ale: For beer lovers, malt-forward beers like an amber or brown ale can mellow the spice without overpowering the delicate flavors, creating a harmonious drinking experience.
• Smoky Old Fashioned or Bourbon Mule: Cocktails with bourbon’s characteristic caramel and oak notes mirror the glaze’s flavor profile, making for a fantastic and sophisticated adult beverage pairing.

Desserts to Finish Your Meal

• Maple Pecan Pie or Brown Butter Blondies: Choose desserts that echo the caramelized and nutty flavors of the Brussels sprouts. The warm, comforting notes of maple and pecan will extend the culinary experience. For an easy make-ahead option, try my Pecan Pie Bark!
• Chocolate Whiskey Mousse: A rich and slightly bitter chocolate dessert, perhaps infused with a hint of whiskey, provides a wonderful contrast and a balanced finish to the meal. Alternatively, for a boozy treat, consider one of my Chocolate Crown Royal Cocktails!

Expert Tips for the Best Copycat LongHorn Brussels Sprouts

Achieving perfectly crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts in your air fryer is simple with a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your copycat LongHorn Brussels sprouts are absolutely irresistible every time:

• Avoid Overcrowding Your Air Fryer: This is perhaps the most critical tip for crispy Brussels sprouts. If your air fryer basket is too full, the sprouts will steam instead of crisping. This happens because the hot air can’t circulate properly around each piece. Always arrange them in a single layer, even if it means cooking in multiple batches. Giving them space allows the heat to hit all surfaces, leading to that desirable golden-brown and crispy texture.
• Ensure Brussels Sprouts Are Dry: Whether you’re using fresh or thawed frozen sprouts, make sure they are completely dry before you toss them with butter and seasoning. Any excess moisture will turn to steam in the air fryer, making your sprouts soggy rather than crisp. A quick pat-down with paper towels after washing (or thawing) is essential for maximizing crispiness. If you find your sprouts aren’t crisping up, it’s usually due to overcrowding or insufficient drying. A little spritz of olive oil before air frying can also help promote browning and crispiness.
• No Need to Blanch First (Usually): When air frying Brussels sprouts, there’s typically no need to blanch or pre-cook them. The air fryer is efficient enough to cook them through while simultaneously crisping up the outer leaves beautifully. However, if you have very large sprouts or prefer an exceptionally tender interior, a quick 2-minute blanch in boiling water followed by immediate drying can be beneficial. Just ensure they are completely dry before proceeding with air frying.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Your Air Fryer: Air fryers can vary significantly in power and efficiency. This recipe was tested in a Ninja air fryer and took approximately 15 minutes total. Your specific model (and even the size of your Brussels sprouts) might require slight adjustments. Always keep an eye on your sprouts, especially towards the end of the cooking time. Look for golden-brown edges and a tender interior as indicators of doneness. Don’t be afraid to add or subtract a few minutes based on your setup and how crispy you like them.
• Consider Preheating Your Air Fryer: While not always strictly necessary, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes at the cooking temperature can help ensure more consistent cooking and faster crisping, mimicking the effect of dropping food into a hot oven.

Storage and Reheating LongHorn Brussels Sprouts

Having leftovers of these delicious Brussels sprouts is a rare occurrence, but if you do, here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain their deliciousness.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: To keep leftover Brussels sprouts fresh, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. It’s important to let them cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation from forming, which can make the sprouts soggy.
• Sauce Storage: If you prepared extra honey-chili butter sauce or decided to serve it on the side, store any unused portion in a small, sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to a week.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Crispness

• Air Fryer (Recommended Method): For the best results and to restore that desirable signature crunch, the air fryer is your go-to method for reheating. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the sprouts for 3–5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. This method will bring back much of their original texture.
• Oven: If you have a larger batch of leftovers or don’t have an air fryer, reheating in the oven is a great alternative. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 8–10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave (Last Resort): While convenient, microwaving will inevitably soften the sprouts and won’t bring back their crispiness. If you’re in a pinch, use 30-second bursts until they are warmed through. This method is best if texture isn’t your primary concern.

• Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts
• Balsamic Honey Glazed Brussel Sprouts

Final Thoughts on These Delicious Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

These copycat LongHorn Brussels sprouts are an absolutely delicious and impressive side dish, perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday meals, or truly any occasion where you want to add a touch of gourmet flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease, thanks to the air fryer. In minutes, you can transform humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping dish with perfectly roasted, crispy edges and a deeply flavorful, sweet, smoky, and lightly spicy sauce – an amazing combination that’s hard to resist.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is the convenience of enjoying such a tasty veggie without ever having to leave the comfort of your home. Not only is it budget-friendly compared to dining out, but it’s also infinitely more customizable than the restaurant version. You have complete control over the level of sweetness, smokiness, and spice, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your family’s preferences.

Whether you’re planning a romantic date night in, entertaining guests for a special dinner, or simply looking for a cozy evening with great food, these LongHorn copycat Brussels sprouts fit the bill. Pair them with your other steakhouse favorites for a complete and satisfying meal that will impress everyone. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-executed vegetable side dish to elevate your entire dining experience!

If you’re looking for more great ways to incorporate delicious and healthy veggies into your diet, especially with the magic of the air fryer, be sure to check out all my tasty Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipes. You’ll find a variety of flavors and styles to keep your meals exciting and nutritious!