Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe
When you’re looking for a quick and easy vegetable side dish, look no further than this crispy air fryer broccoli recipe. This method creates perfectly crispy florets with minimal effort, all while retaining that delicious, fresh flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need something simple for dinner, this air fryer broccoli recipe is a great choice!
Why Use the Air Fryer for Broccoli?
The air fryer is the secret to getting that perfect crispy texture without deep frying. Instead of drenching the broccoli in oil, the air fryer uses circulating hot air to cook the broccoli to golden perfection. It’s quick, healthy, and incredibly easy to clean up afterward. You can enjoy crispy, roasted broccoli in less than 15 minutes, making it the ideal choice for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccoli
You’ll need just a few basic ingredients to make this delicious side dish:
- 1 head of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
These simple ingredients will allow the natural flavor of the broccoli to shine, while the seasonings give it a savory, crispy edge.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. Try to make the florets uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Season the Broccoli
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you want a little extra flavor, you can also add garlic powder and onion powder at this stage.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step helps the broccoli cook evenly and get that crispy texture you’re craving.
Step 4: Air Fry the Broccoli
Place the seasoned broccoli into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crisping. If you like your broccoli extra crispy, you can add a few more minutes to the cooking time.
Step 5: Serve
Once the broccoli is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve it immediately for the best crispy texture.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Broccoli
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: It’s important to spread the broccoli out in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Add flavor variations: Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even lemon zest for a unique twist.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets hold up better and provide the best texture when cooked in the air fryer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This broccoli air fryer recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the seasoning to fit your tastes, and it’s a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even pasta, this simple dish will add flavor and crunch to your plate. Plus, the air fryer makes it a hassle-free experience, and the clean-up is a breeze!
