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Crispy spicy air fryer Brussels sprouts tossed in gochujang butter, served in a white bowl and ready to eat.

Spicy Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer

These Spicy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Gochujang are a quick, flavorful, and vegetarian side dish that brings a perfect mix of heat, crispiness, and savory depth. Fresh Brussels sprouts are halved, tossed in a simple gochujang butter and garlic mixture, then air-fried until golden and caramelized. The result is a bold, slightly spicy veggie that’s tender inside and crispy on the edges — all made healthier thanks to the air fryer. It’s an easy, 25-minute recipe that pairs perfectly with rice bowls, grilled meats, or as a stand-alone snack for anyone who loves big flavor and simple prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, korean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bag Brussels sprouts from the produce aisle
  • ¼ Stick unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon Korean Gochujang paste Buy on Amazon
  • 1 clove garlic minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Sea salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray Light amount

Equipment

  • Air Fryer: Bella Air Fryer https://amzn.to/4hhf6xq
  • Kitchen knives: Henckels Knife Set https://amzn.to/3TFsEYT
  • Strainer

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
  1. Start by removing any wilted or damaged outer leaves from the sprouts.
  2. Next, trim off the ends of each sprout and slice them in half. This step not only helps them cook faster but also allows the flavors to soak in evenly.
  3. Once trimmed and halved, rinse your Brussels sprouts under cold water using a strainer. Shake off the excess water — you don’t want them wet when they go in the air fryer.
Step 2: Make the Gochujang Butter Coating
  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
  2. Melted butter
  3. One teaspoon of gochujang paste
  4. Garlic (fresh or powdered)
  5. A pinch of sea salt and black pepper
  6. Whisk everything together until smooth and evenly blended. The result should be a spicy, glossy coating that smells incredible — rich butter meets the slightly sweet, spicy umami of gochujang.
Step 3: Coat the Brussels Sprouts
  1. Add your rinsed and halved Brussels sprouts into the mixing bowl. Toss thoroughly to make sure each sprout is coated evenly in the gochujang butter mixture. The coating should cling to the sprouts without being overly wet.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
  1. Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Add the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer — avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
  3. Set temperature: 325°F
  4. Cook time: 10 minutes
  5. After the first 10 minutes, shake the basket or stir the sprouts to flip them around for even browning.
  6. Increase temperature: 375°F
  7. Cook an additional: 5 minutes
  8. Check for doneness — they should be lightly crisp on the outside with golden edges and tender centers.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Transfer the sprouts to a bowl and serve immediately.
  2. They’re excellent on their own, but you can also top them with a drizzle of honey, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of chopped green onion for an extra layer of flavor.

Video

Notes

Recipe Tips & Variations
Don’t skip halving the sprouts: Cutting them in half ensures even cooking and gives you those crisp caramelized edges.
Dry before coating: Excess water can make them soggy. Pat them dry after rinsing.
Adjust the heat: Want it spicier? Add another half-teaspoon of gochujang. For milder flavor, reduce it slightly or mix with a little honey.
Add crunch: Toss with toasted sesame seeds, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed peanuts before serving.
Make it vegan: Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of dairy butter.