Air fryer roasted broccoli is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that delivers crispy edges and tender florets with minimal oil. Perfectly seasoned and ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a simple way to elevate broccoli into a flavorful favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it transforms everyday broccoli into a crispy, savory dish with almost no effort. The air fryer gives the broccoli a roasted texture without heating up the oven, making it perfect for weeknight meals. It’s versatile, customizable with your favorite seasonings, and pairs well with just about any main course.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 medium broccoli head, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoning (such as Vegeta all-purpose seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Toss broccoli florets with oil, salt, pepper, and seasonings until evenly coated. Use your hands, a zip-top bag, or a container with a lid to shake for even coverage.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Place broccoli in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until broccoli is tender with crispy, slightly charred edges.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or extra seasonings if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2–3 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice.
- Toss with lemon juice and zest after cooking for a fresh flavor.
- Use everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist.
- Make it dairy-free by skipping the Parmesan or using nutritional yeast.
- Add sesame oil and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the broccoli soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, just increase cooking time by a few minutes and shake the basket often to avoid sogginess.
Do I need to boil broccoli before air frying?
No, raw broccoli works best for a crispy texture.
What other seasonings go well with air fryer broccoli?
Try Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, curry powder, or Cajun spices.
Can I make this recipe without oil?
Yes, but the broccoli won’t crisp as well. A light mist of cooking spray is a good compromise.
How do I keep the broccoli from burning?
Check on it halfway through and shake the basket to prevent uneven cooking.
Can I cook broccoli and other vegetables together?
Yes, just choose vegetables with similar cooking times like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts.
Why is my broccoli soggy in the air fryer?
Overcrowding the basket traps steam—cook in batches for best results.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast instead.
How do I get extra crispy broccoli?
Cut florets small and dry them well before seasoning. Cooking a few extra minutes also helps.
Is air fryer broccoli healthy?
Yes, it uses less oil than traditional roasting and retains nutrients while getting deliciously crispy.
Conclusion
Air fryer roasted broccoli is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy this nutrient-packed vegetable. With crispy edges, tender centers, and endless seasoning possibilities, it’s a side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat for easy weeknight meals.
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Air Fryer Roasted Broccoli
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Air fryer roasted broccoli is a quick and healthy side dish that delivers crispy edges and tender florets with minimal oil. Ready in under 15 minutes, this easy recipe transforms broccoli into a flavorful favorite that pairs perfectly with any meal. With customizable seasonings and a light, roasted texture, it’s the ultimate simple, nutritious, and delicious veggie side.
Ingredients
1 medium broccoli head, cut into florets
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1/2 tsp salt and pepper, or to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp all-purpose seasoning (such as Vegeta)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Toss broccoli florets with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoning until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Place broccoli in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until broccoli is tender with crispy, slightly charred edges.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or extra seasonings if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to avoid soggy broccoli.
- Omit Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
- Add lemon juice and zest after cooking for brightness.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes for best texture.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
