Crunchy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Spicy Mayo Recipe

If you adore a crispy, flavor-packed vegetable side dish, you’re going to fall in love with Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo. This addictive recipe transforms humble brussel sprouts into golden, crunchy bites, crowned with a creamy spicy mayo and irresistible garnishes. Trust me—it’s a veggie dish you’ll crave again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create bold flavor and texture. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s the brussel sprouts getting perfectly crisp or the spicy mayo delivering that irresistible kick and creamy finish.

• Brussel Sprouts (about 1 pound): The star of the show! Look for small, vibrant sprouts for sweeter, more tender results.
• Olive Oil: Helps the brussel sprouts achieve their signature crispiness and deep golden edges in the air fryer.
• Salt & Pepper: Just the right amount wakes up the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the spicy mayo, making everything luscious and rich.
• Sriracha: Gives the mayo its addictive heat and tang—add more or less to suit your spice level!
• Honey: A touch of sweetness in the sauce balances out the spice beautifully.
• Sesame Oil: Adds depth and a subtle toasted nuttiness to the spicy mayo.
• Chopped Pistachios or Cashews: Sprinkle these on top for crunch, color, and a little luxury.
• Minced Cilantro: Fresh and bright, it brings everything together and adds a pop of color.

Variations

The beauty of Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo is how flexible it is! You can easily make swaps, dial the spice up or down, or keep things allergy-friendly. Go ahead and make it your own—no two batches need to be exactly alike.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use your favorite vegan or egg-free mayo to keep the spicy sauce completely dairy-free.
• Nut-Free Garnish: Skip the nuts or swap in toasted pumpkin seeds for the same crunch if you have an allergy.
• Add Parmesan: Shower freshly grated parmesan over the hot sprouts for a savory, cheesy twist.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced red onions or bell peppers with the sprouts for added color and flavor.

How to Make Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo

Step 1: Prep the Brussel Sprouts

Give your brussel sprouts a good rinse, then trim the stem ends and cut each one in half lengthwise. This helps them cook evenly and exposes more surface area for ultimate crispiness!

Step 2: Season & Toss

Add the halved brussel sprouts to a large mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle on the salt and pepper. Toss everything together with your hands (the best tools!) until every sprout is coated and glistening.

Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Transfer the seasoned sprouts to your air fryer basket, giving it a little shake so the sprouts spread out in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 10–15 minutes, giving the basket a good shake every 5 minutes to make sure each piece crisps up and browns beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo

While your brussel sprouts are sizzling away, whisk together the mayo, sriracha, honey, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Each ingredient has a job: spicy, creamy, sweet, and rich—so don’t skip any!

Step 5: Plate & Garnish

Once your Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo are golden and crisp, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the spicy mayo, then finish with a sprinkle of nuts and fresh cilantro. Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping (or for those who love the heat!).

How to Serve Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo

Garnishes

The final touch makes all the difference—scatter chopped pistachios or cashews for nutty crunch, and tuck in a handful of minced cilantro for color and bright, fresh flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a final sprinkle of flaky sea salt is pure magic!

Side Dishes

These brussel sprouts steal the show alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked tofu. Want a cozy meal? Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes or a grain bowl for a hearty, well-rounded dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo piled high on a platter for a buffet, or in small, elegant bowls for a fun appetizer. For parties, slide them onto toothpicks or skewers—instant veggie “lollipops” to dip in the spicy mayo!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover brussel sprouts can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy mayo separately to preserve that lovely crisp texture for as long as possible.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze air fried brussel sprouts, they tend to lose some of their signature crunch after thawing. For best taste and texture, I recommend enjoying them fresh or refrigerated within a few days.

Reheating

For the crunchiest results, reheat leftover sprouts in the air fryer or oven at 375°F for a few minutes. They’ll perk right back up! Avoid microwaving, which can make them a bit soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Spicy Mayo—they truly make vegetables irresistible! Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight treat or as a party starter, I promise every crunchy, saucy bite will leave you reaching for more. Enjoy!

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