Air Fryer Broccoli

Learn how to make quick and easy air fryer broccoli that tastes incredibly delicious. Ready in less than 8 minutes, you’ll never make broccoli any other way again!

We’re here to show you that air fryers aren’t just for protein. We love to use it for all the vegetables! This includes Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and, of course, broccoli.

Time to say goodbye to soggy, overcooked broccoli!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Quick and easy. From start to finish, it takes less than 10 minutes.
• Budget-friendly. It’s made using simple everyday use spices and ingredients that are affordable.
• Healthy. Broccoli is naturally low in calories and fat, and when seasoned properly, it tastes so darn sinful!

Without the hassle of messy oil and complicated cleanup, this recipe is perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer, and honestly, it goes well with anything. I mean, cook up your dinner in the air fryer too to pair with this, like chicken breast, steak, salmon, or pork chops!

Ingredients needed 

This recipe calls for very simple ingredients that you’ll likely already have on hand. Here is what you’ll need:

• Broccoli. Use fresh broccoli florets and cut them to the same size. 
• Olive oil. 
• Sugar. Gives the broccoli a lovely crispy texture. 
• Salt and pepper. To taste.
• Red pepper flakes. Gives a spicy flavor to the broccoli. 
• Lemon slices and fresh parmesan. To serve.

How to air fry broccoli? 

The beauty of using the air fryer for cooking broccoli is that it takes care of all the hard work! With just a few minutes of prep, this dish is done!

Step 1- Prepare the broccoli for air frying 

Start by adding broccoli, olive oil, sugar, salt, red pepper flakes and pepper to a mixing bowl. Rub broccoli with the spices well before cooking. 

Step 2- Cook in the air fryer 

Next, to preheat the air fryer to 200 degrees Celsius or 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.

Now, add broccoli to the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, drizzle some lemon juice, add some fresh parmesan, and serve immediately.

Tips to make the best recipe

• Cut the broccoli florets to the same size to ensure all the florets cook evenly without burning.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer so that all the broccoli gets cooked quickly. It’ll allow the hot air to cook your recipe better and faster. 
• Adding the sugar caramelizes the edges to make them extra crispy- you won’t taste the sweetness.

Flavor variations 

Like any good vegetable, you can jazz up its flavor with just a few tweaks. Here is what we’ve tried:

• Add some spice. Cayenne, red pepper flakes, and black pepper are all fantastic options.
• Use different oils. Sesame oil gives it a nutty flavor, and truffle oil makes it much more decadent.
• Add some sauce. Toss through balsamic vinegar, katsu sauce, bulgogi sauce, or Worcestershire sauce.
• Sprinkle some cheese. Freshly grated parmesan or sharp cheddar takes this humble vegetable to the next level.

Storage instructions 

To store: Put the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. 

To freeze: Place the cooked and cooled broccoli in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. 

Reheating: Reheat in the oven, skillet, or air fryer.

More air fryer vegetables to try

• Zucchini
• Baked potatoes
• Sweet potato fries
• Buffalo cauliflower
• Green beans
• Carrots

Frequently Asked Questions