If you’re looking for a snack or side that packs a real punch with crispy edges and a saucy, spicy kick, you have to try this Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe. The magic here is in perfectly air-fried Brussels sprouts coated in a creamy, tangy, and just-right spicy Bang Bang sauce that hits all the right flavor notes—sweet, savory, citrusy, and with a little heat that wakes up your taste buds. It’s a fun, easy way to transform humble Brussels sprouts into a dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that each play a star role in creating that balance of crispy texture and vibrant flavor. From the bright citrus to the creamy mayo and spicy chili, everything comes together seamlessly.
- Brussels sprouts (1 & ½ pounds): The base of the dish—look for firm, bright green sprouts with tight leaves for the best crunch.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps crisp up the Brussels sprouts beautifully in the air fryer.
- Sea salt or kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances natural flavors, but you can adjust based on preference.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and depth to the base seasoning.
- Sweet chili sauce (½ cup): Brings sweetness and a touch of gentle spice, perfect for the Bang Bang sauce base.
- Sriracha (1-2 teaspoons): Adds a spicy kick—use more or less depending on how fiery you like it.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens and balances the richness of the sauce with acidity.
- Mayonnaise (â…“ cup): Creates the creamy texture that makes the Bang Bang sauce so irresistible.
- Garlic salt (½ teaspoon): Adds savory, garlicky goodness with a pinch of saltiness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra layer of heat if you want to turn up the spice even more.
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming off the tough stems of each Brussels sprout, then cut them in half—or quarters if some are extra big. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispy, caramelized edges.
Step 2: Season and Oil
Pop the halved Brussels sprouts into a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. If you want, sprinkle salt and pepper now—but remember, you can also season later with the Bang Bang sauce, so adjust the amount to your taste.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Lay the Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them; cooking in batches might be necessary for that perfect crunch and even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook the sprouts for about 6 to 8 minutes. Give them a good toss, then air fry for another 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll notice the sprouts turning golden and crispy, which is exactly what you want.
Step 5: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce
While the Brussels sprouts are cooking, mix salt, pepper, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and garlic salt in a bowl. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re craving a bit of extra spice. This sauce is where all the magic happens—creamy, tangy, and spicy all in one.
Step 6: Coat the Sprouts
Spoon approximately half a cup of the Bang Bang sauce over the cooked sprouts and toss well to coat every bite with that luscious sauce.
Step 7: Final Air Fry for Caramelization
Put the coated Brussels sprouts back into the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step caramelizes the sauce and gives the sprouts an irresistible toasty finish while keeping them tender inside.
Step 8: Serve With Extra Sauce
Serve these beauties hot with the remaining Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. They’re ready to impress!
How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few finely sliced green onions adds a lovely crunch and fresh note that pairs wonderfully with the creamy, spicy sauce. Something as simple as a wedge of lemon can also give a last-minute brightness just before serving.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe shines as a snack but also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or a rice bowl. Their bold flavor complements milder mains perfectly, giving your meal a zesty finishing touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these sprouts as a party appetizer stacked on skewers or as part of a vibrant veggie platter. Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce artistically over a bed of mixed greens and toasted nuts for a colorful, flavorful salad twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll soften over time but still pack plenty of flavor, making for an easy next-day snack or side dish.
Freezing
Because of their delicate crispy texture and sauce, freezing these sprouts isn’t ideal. The sauce may separate, and the sprouts will lose their crunch, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the sprouts back into the air fryer or a hot oven at 375°F for a few minutes to revive their crispiness. Skip the microwave if you want to keep that delightful crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts work best for crispiness, you can use frozen—just be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before air frying to avoid sogginess.
How spicy is this Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
The heat level depends on how much Sriracha and red pepper flakes you add. The recipe balances spice with sweetness, so you can easily adjust to suit your palate.
Can I make a vegan version?
Absolutely! Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo alternative, and you’ll still get that creamy, tangy sauce with all the flavor intact.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can roast the Brussels sprouts in a hot oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through. Then toss with the Bang Bang sauce and broil briefly to caramelize.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients here are naturally gluten-free, but always check your chili sauce label to be sure if you’re sensitive.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about the crispiness of perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts combined with the creamy, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce. This Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that elevates a humble vegetable to star status on your table. I can’t recommend it highly enough—give it a try and watch these sprouts disappear in no time!
Print
Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts recipe delivers crispy, tender Brussels sprouts coated in a spicy, creamy Bang Bang sauce. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or side, this dish combines the ease of air frying with a tangy, sweet, and spicy glaze made from sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, lemon juice, and mayonnaise. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable with a bold kick.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 & ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved or quartered if large
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- â…“ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the stems from the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half, or into quarters if they are extra large to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil. Optionally season with salt and pepper here, but adjust the Bang Bang sauce seasonings accordingly if you add salt and pepper at this stage.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have more sprouts than fit in one layer, cook them in batches to ensure crispiness.
- Air Fry Initial Cook: Cook the Brussels sprouts at 400°F for 6-8 minutes. Then toss them around in the basket and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden texture.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: While the sprouts cook, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic salt, and black pepper. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.
- Coat Brussels Sprouts: Spoon about half a cup of the Bang Bang sauce over the cooked Brussels sprouts and toss thoroughly to evenly coat each piece.
- Final Air Fry: Return the coated Brussels sprouts to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce and ensure the sprouts are toasty and tender.
- Serve: Serve the Brussels sprouts hot with the remaining Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the Sriracha amount in the sauce to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Leftover Brussels sprouts can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to retain crispness.
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo.
