Name: air fryer broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, add during last minute of cooking)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a deliciously simple way to enjoy your greens, this air fryer broccoli recipe will quickly become a favorite. Using just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can transform crisp-tender broccoli into a flavorful, crispy-touched delight that’s perfect as a snack or side dish. The magic of the air fryer brings out the vegetable’s natural sweetness while adding that irresistible crunch, making air fryer broccoli a brilliant addition to any meal.

air fryer broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing out the vibrant flavors, crisp texture, and beautiful color that make this dish so irresistible and easy to prep.

Broccoli florets (1 pound): Fresh broccoli is the star of the show, providing a bright, healthy base with a perfect texture for air frying.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps achieve that beautifully crisp exterior.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a savory depth without overpowering the broccoli’s natural flavor.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the taste.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers just the right hint of heat and complexity.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a subtle kick, adjustable to your preferred spice level.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon, optional): Provides a nutty, savory finish when added during the last minute of cooking.

How to Make air fryer broccoli

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your broccoli starts cooking the moment it hits the basket, helping it crisp up nicely while remaining tender inside.

Step 2: Season the Broccoli

In a mixing bowl, toss the fresh broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Make sure every floret is coated evenly—this seasoning combo is what really wakes up the flavors.

Step 3: Arrange the Broccoli

Place the broccoli in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Spreading them out like this is important because it allows the hot air to circulate around each piece, promoting even cooking and that signature crispness we’re aiming for with air fryer broccoli.

Step 4: Air Fry the Broccoli

Cook the broccoli for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This simple shake helps keep the florets from sticking and encourages them to brown evenly, developing a wonderful crunch on the edges.

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

If you’re including Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the broccoli during the last minute of cooking. The warm air fryer will melt it slightly, creating a delightful cheesy layer that makes this dish feel extra special.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once done, carefully remove the broccoli from the air fryer. For an extra splash of brightness, try adding a little lemon juice or zest right before serving—it really amplifies the fresh flavors and complements the crispy texture perfectly.

How to Serve air fryer broccoli

Garnishes

To elevate your air fryer broccoli, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of lemon zest can also add a vibrant finishing touch that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

Air fryer broccoli pairs beautifully with a wide variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, seared steak, or your favorite pasta dish. It’s also a tasty way to add greens to a cozy grain bowl or shake up your usual weeknight dinner lineup.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider tossing your air fryer broccoli into a warm quinoa salad, mixing it into a cheesy frittata, or layering it atop a vibrant homemade pizza for a surprising pop of texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless with this versatile dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The broccoli will soften over time but still taste delightful when reheated.

Freezing

Freezing air fryer broccoli isn’t recommended because the texture tends to become mushy after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerate for short-term storage instead.

Reheating

To bring back the crispiness, reheat your broccoli in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This method helps restore that freshly cooked texture much better than a microwave.

FAQs

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can roast broccoli in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. While it won’t be exactly the same, it still results in a tasty, slightly crispy side.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Fresh broccoli works best for air frying; frozen broccoli tends to release too much moisture, resulting in a soggier texture.

How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely.

Is Parmesan cheese necessary?

Parmesan is optional but highly recommended if you love a savory, cheesy boost. It melts quickly during the last minute, adding an irresistible flavor layer.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, which can prevent the broccoli from crisping properly. Cook in batches if needed.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with air fryer broccoli—it’s quick, easy, and packed with vibrant flavors and textures that make eating your veggies a pure joy. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it’ll become your go-to side dish in no time.

air fryer broccoli Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 26 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This air fryer broccoli recipe delivers perfectly tender and slightly crispy broccoli florets seasoned with garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this easy, healthy side dish is ready in under 20 minutes and makes a delicious addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Broccoli and Seasoning

1 pound fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Topping

1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, add during last minute of cooking)

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Prepare the Broccoli: In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything until the broccoli is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and cooking.
Cook the Broccoli: Air fry the broccoli for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all pieces cook evenly and get crispy edges while remaining tender inside.
Add Parmesan (Optional): During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli to let it melt slightly and add a savory finish.
Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the broccoli from the air fryer and serve it hot for best taste and texture.
Optional Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest just before serving to brighten the dish.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Notes

Make sure the broccoli pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air flow and crispiness.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit for a milder taste.
If you don’t want to use Parmesan, nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative for a cheesy flavor.
Use fresh broccoli florets rather than frozen for best texture and flavor.
This recipe can easily be doubled but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Adding lemon juice after cooking enhances the flavors without making the broccoli soggy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American