Updated
This Air Fryer Broccoli recipe makes the best, crispiest broccoli ever. It’s quick and simple to make, taking only minutes to cook with just a handful of ingredients. Plus, it’s healthy and delicious, and goes with all of your favorite meals!
Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make broccoli in the air fryer. In fact, all you really need is broccoli and oil, but I’ve added a couple of things into the mix for even more flavor.
This is such a simple recipe that’s easy to make with different flavor combinations. Try making Ranch Broccoli, by simply adding ranch seasoning, or you throw in bacon crumbles for a more savory dish. I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice and/or toasted breadcrumbs, or toss the cooked broccoli in Ranch or Caesar dressing. You could also mix the broccoli with sesame oil and soy sauce, cook, and top with toasted sesame seeds. Or, omit the Parmesan and toss with curry or za’atar seasoning. The options are endless!
Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe
Equipment
- Air Fryer (click for my favorite)
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil depending on size of head of broccoli
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1-2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- red pepper flakes optional, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the broccoli into even-sized florets. It will cook more evenly this way. then transfer to a large bowl.1 head broccoli
- Add the oil and coat the florets evenly. Add the salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Toss until evenly coated.1-2 tablespoons olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 2 cloves garlic
- Transfer to an air fryer basket and be careful not to overcrowd. Work in batches if necessary. Otherwise, you'll end up with steamed broccoli. Cook for 5 minutes at 360°F, then flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until desired doneness.
- Remove from the air fryer basket and top with Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes and enjoy.1-2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes
Becky’s Tips
- If adding seasonings, toss the broccoli with the seasonings before adding it to the air fryer, not after.
- For more tender, less crisp broccoli, add 1 tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this? Leave a comment!
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Step by Step
Chop the broccoli: Cut one head of broccoli into even-sized florets. It will cook more evenly this way, then transfer to a large bowl.
Add the seasoning: Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and coat evenly. Then, add the 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Toss until evenly coated.
Transfer and cook: Transfer the broccoli to an air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed. Otherwise, you’ll end up with steamed broccoli. Cook for 5 minutes at 360°F, then flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until desired doneness.
Remove, garnish, and serve: Remove from the air fryer basket and top with 1-2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes.
How to Store
This is best eaten fresh. If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350-400°F air fryer for 4-5 minutes.
Freeze in a single layer on a lined baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag to store for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results. If reheating straight from frozen, increase the time in the air fryer (as instructed above), and expect a more steamed texture.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy broccoli goes so well with any of your favorite meals, like Parmesan Crusted Tilapia and Parmesan Crusted Chicken. It actually makes a great add-in for pasta dishes too, so try tossing it in with your Chicken Alfredo or Garlic Butter Noodles for more veggies.
No matter how you season it, you can serve up Air Fryer Broccoli with anything from Grilled Chicken Breast to Seared Ahi Tuna.
