This air fryer broccoli is crispy, cheesy, and refreshing. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-calorie.
Not eating broccoli as a side because it’s too bland? Well, not with this recipe! These lovely broccoli florets are crispy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious!
They are also crunchy and charred around the edges. But it is the Parmesan topping that makes them so addicting. Who knew that broccoli could taste so irresistible, right?
These air-fried broccoli have that roasted-like flavor and taste like they came straight from the oven. Only they’re cooked in 8 minutes. And require just a touch of oil.
This cooking method also retains all of the broccoli’s nutrients. And it is the perfect combo of crispy, crunchy, and tender. That you simply cannot nail in the oven.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Substitutes
Broccoli head (12oz) – It’s best to use fresh broccoli with a firm stalk. If using frozen, make sure not to thaw them before cooking. You’ll also need 2-3 minutes of longer cooking time.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp) – You can also use granulated garlic. Or even minced garlic if you like a more pungent flavor.
Onion powder (1/2 tsp) – Try not to substitute this because it gives the dish a nice umami flavor.
Salt (1/4 tsp)
Black pepper (a pinch) – Sea salt and freshly ground pepper are best
Parmesan (2 tbsp) – You can also use other sharp cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a vegan version, you can use nutritional yeast flakes.
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli
Step 1. Prepare your broccoli head by breaking it into florets and thoroughly washing them.
Step 2. Grab a large bowl and add the oil, garlic, onions, salt, and pepper to it. Mix until the spices are incorporated well.
Step 3. Add the broccoli florets to the bowl. Toss well until they’re coated with the seasoned oil.
Step 4. Arrange the coated broccoli in your Air Fryer, making sure they’re all in a single layer.
Step 5. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the broccoli.
Step 6. Air-fry at 370 degrees F for 5 minutes. Then, take the basket out and give it a nice shake.
Return it to the Air Fryer, and bake for an additional 3 minutes. If you want to, you can serve it with another dust of Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Broccoli
The most important thing is to arrange in a single layer. Otherwise, the cooking will not be even, and some florets will be under or overcooked.
Also, shaking the basket is an important step that will prevent the florets from scorching.
This method allows for a mega-crispy bite. If you want your broccoli more on the steamed side, you can add a tablespoon of water to the Air Fryer basket.
Watch: How to Make It
More Delicious Side Dish Recipes To Try:
Cheesy Garlic Broccoli (3-Ingredients)
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Dates
Air Fryer Broccoli
Ingredients
- Broccoli head around 12 oz (cut into small florets)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- a pinch of black pepper
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
Instructions
- Mix olive oil, garlic, onion, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Add in the broccoli and cover it with oil.
- Add broccoli to the air fryer basket in one layer. Sprinkle over the parmesan.
- Air fry for 5 minutes at 370F, then take it out and shake it. Return it and air fry for another 3 minutes.
- Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.