Hey y'all! If you love sticky-sweet heat, shatteringly crisp edges, and big umami, these Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts are your new go-to side for weeknights, game days, and holiday spreads alike. They roast up golden and crunchy, then get tossed in a glossy Asian BBQ glaze that clings to every craggy leaf. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
- Serious crunch: cornstarch and high heat deliver irresistibly crispy edges.
- Sweet-heat glaze: hoisin, soy, and gochujang create a sticky, savory BBQ vibe.
- Fast and easy: 10 minutes of prep, about 22 minutes in the oven, done.
- Weeknight-friendly: pantry ingredients and a single sheet pan minimize cleanup.
- Flexible: mild or spicy, oven or air fryer, gluten-free swaps included.
Ingredients for Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
Serves 4 as a side
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or canola)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Asian BBQ glaze (about ½ cup):
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey (or packed light brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons gochujang or sriracha (to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
To finish:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice for brightness
Crispy Brussels Sprouts Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 to 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 side servings
- Oven Temperature: 425°F (220°C), broil to finish (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions: Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat for crispy Brussels sprouts
Set a rack in the upper-third of the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, rimmed sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Asian BBQ glaze
In a small saucepan, whisk hoisin, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, gochujang, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy. Turn off heat; the glaze will thicken a touch as it cools.
Step 3: Toss sprouts for maximum crisp
Pat Brussels sprouts very dry. In a large bowl, toss sprouts with neutral oil, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated and no dry starch remains.
Step 4: Roast until deeply browned
Spread sprouts cut-side down on the sheet pan, leaving space between pieces. Roast 14 minutes, rotate the pan, then roast 4 to 8 minutes more (total 18 to 22 minutes) until cut sides are deeply browned and edges are frilly and crisp.
Step 5: Glaze the Brussels sprouts
Transfer hot sprouts to a bowl and toss with ¼ to ⅓ cup glaze (to taste). For tackier edges, return glazed sprouts to the oven for 2 minutes or broil for 1 minute to set the glaze.
Step 6: Finish and serve
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and scallions, add a squeeze of lime if you like, and serve immediately while ultra-crispy.
Notes for Extra-Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
- Dry is key: water is the enemy of crisp. After washing, spin or towel-dry thoroughly before tossing with oil and cornstarch.
- Don’t crowd the pan: space between sprouts helps steam escape and edges brown. Use two pans if needed.
- New to roasting technique? This guide from The Kitchn on how to roast vegetables is a great refresher: How to Roast Any Vegetable.
Variations: Spin Your Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
- Air Fryer Crispy Sprouts: 390°F (200°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, shaking halfway; toss with glaze and air-fry 1 more minute.
- Maple-Miso BBQ: Swap honey for pure maple syrup and add 1 teaspoon white miso to the glaze for savory-sweet depth.
- Smoky Bacon BBQ: Roast 4 ounces diced bacon on the pan for 5 minutes, add sprouts, then proceed; toss everything in glaze.
Required Equipment for Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Large rimmed sheet pan (13x18-inch)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan
- Whisk and tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
Storage for Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. For general guidance, see USDA refrigeration tips: Refrigeration and Food Safety.
- Reheat: Oven or air fryer at 400°F (205°C) for 5 to 8 minutes until hot and re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunch.
- Freeze: Not ideal for peak crispness, but you can freeze up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 400°F (205°C) for 10 to 12 minutes.
Serving & Pairings for Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
- Serve over jasmine rice or garlic noodles to catch extra glaze.
- Pair with teriyaki salmon, grilled chicken thighs, or crispy tofu bowls.
- Sip with a crisp lager, sparkling water with lime, or iced green tea.
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
- Cut-side down = maximum browning. The flat surface caramelizes best and gives that coveted crackly texture.
- Use a light hand with glaze. Too much can soften edges; start with ¼ cup and add more at the table.
- High heat plus airflow wins. For more on sheet-pan spacing and browning science, check out Serious Eats: How to Roast Vegetables.
FAQ: Crispy Asian BBQ Brussels Sprouts
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, shaking halfway. Toss with glaze, then air-fry 1 minute more to set.
Are these gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check your hoisin brand. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.
How do I make them less spicy?
Start with 1 teaspoon gochujang (or sriracha) and add more to taste, or skip it and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to finish instead.
P.S. Curious about the health perks? Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense little powerhouses—learn more here: Brussels Sprouts Nutrition.