If you’re looking for a snack or side dish that’s bursting with flavor and has a delightful balance of crispy, spicy, and creamy, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly crisped Brussels sprouts coated in a luscious, tangy, and spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s both addictive and comforting. It’s easy to make, takes little time, and the air fryer does all the magic to give the sprouts a terrific crunch without drowning them in oil. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple whenever you want a warm, flavorful dish that excites your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful mix of ingredients that come together for a flavor explosion. Each component plays a distinct role, from the fresh brightness of lemon juice to the creamy tang of mayonnaise, ensuring every bite delights with texture and taste.
- Brussels sprouts (1 & ½ pounds): The star of the show, providing a hearty, slightly nutty base with loads of crunch when air fried.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the sprouts crisp up beautifully and carry flavor without excess greasiness.
- Sea salt or kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for enhancing the natural earthiness of the Brussels sprouts.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
- Sweet chili sauce (½ cup): Brings a sweet and mildly spicy kick that makes the Bang Bang sauce irresistibly good.
- Sriracha (1-2 teaspoons): For that extra punch of heat—adjust to suit your love for spice.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Lends a bright, zesty lift, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Mayonnaise (â…“ cup): Creates a luscious, creamy texture that ties all the flavors together elegantly.
- Garlic salt (½ teaspoon): Adds savory depth and a hint of garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who appreciate an extra sprinkle of heat and texture.
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Brussels Sprouts
The first step is trimming the stems off your Brussels sprouts and cutting them in half—quarters if they happen to be extra large. This ensures even cooking and helps each piece become perfectly crisp in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season and Toss with Olive Oil
Next, place the trimmed sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. At this point, you can season them lightly with salt and pepper if you like, but remember to adjust the seasoning in your Bang Bang sauce accordingly later. The olive oil is key for crispiness, so don’t skip this step.
Step 3: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. If you have more than fits comfortably, it’s better to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to soggy spots. Cook them at 400°F for 6 to 8 minutes. Then give everything a good toss to help with even browning and cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes until they’re gorgeously golden and tender.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce
While the sprouts are cooking, whip together that famous Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, fresh lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic salt, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For those who love it spicy, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This creamy, tangy, and spicy concoction is what makes this Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe a real crowd-pleaser.
Step 5: Coat and Air Fry One Last Time
Spoon half a cup of the Bang Bang sauce over the crispy Brussels sprouts and toss them until every piece gets coated in that luscious sauce. Then, pop them back in the air fryer for 2 to 3 more minutes. This last step caramelizes the sauce beautifully onto the sprouts, creating an irresistible toasty finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your crispy, saucy Brussels sprouts warm with the remaining Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping or extra drizzling. Get ready for compliments with every bite!
How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can elevate this dish even further. I love sprinkling a few toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh cilantro on top for extra texture and freshness. A light scatter of chopped green onions also adds a pop of color and subtle oniony brightness that pairs wonderfully here.
Side Dishes
The versatility of the Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe means it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Think grilled chicken, seared salmon, or even alongside a hearty grain bowl featuring quinoa or brown rice. Its bold flavors can stand up to rich mains while adding a bright pop of excitement to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts with toasted chopped peanuts or crushed cashews for crunch. Serving them in small individual bowls or on a large communal platter with extra Bang Bang sauce drizzled artfully on top can turn this humble dish into the star of your dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sprouts will keep their flavor, though the texture might soften a bit, so reheat carefully.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to keep the Brussels sprouts and Bang Bang sauce separate. Freeze the cooked sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Keep the sauce in a sealed jar or container. This way, both maintain their quality better.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer or oven at a moderate temperature to help them regain some crispness. Warm the Bang Bang sauce separately, then toss just before serving for that fresh, vibrant flavor you love.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely! While the air fryer gives a fantastic crisp texture, you can roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through for even crisping.
How spicy is the Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
The heat level depends on how much Sriracha and red pepper flakes you add. The recipe is adaptable—start with less if you prefer mild and increase according to your spice tolerance.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts work best because they crisp up nicely, but you can try using thawed frozen sprouts. Pat them dry first to remove excess moisture, then air fry as usual. The texture may be slightly different though.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free sweet chili sauce. Always check the labels to be sure.
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free mayo or even a creamy avocado base for an equally delicious sauce without dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a game changer for those who love bold flavors and crave crispy, comforting veggies with a spicy kick. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights or special occasions, and promises to become a favorite everyone asks for again and again. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s truly packed with personality and flavor!
