Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, this Air Fryer Broccoli is the easiest way to enjoy your greens. With just a few simple ingredients and under 15 minutes of cook time, you’ll have perfectly roasted broccoli that’s tender on the inside and crisp on the edges—just like oven-roasted, but faster and even more delicious. Serve it as a healthy snack, side dish, or veggie boost for any meal.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes.
Perfect Texture – Crispy tips, tender stems, and full of flavor.
Healthy Side Dish – Low in calories, high in fiber and vitamins.
Minimal Ingredients – Just pantry staples and fresh broccoli.
Kid-Approved – Great way to get the whole family to eat their veggies!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Broccoli:
- 1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups florets)
- 1½ tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
- Wash and dry the broccoli thoroughly.
- Cut into uniform bite-sized florets. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat dry again if needed—dry florets get crispier.
Step 2: Season the Broccoli
- In a mixing bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Parmesan cheese if using and toss again to coat.
Step 3: Air Fry the Broccoli
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli to the basket in a single layer—don’t overcrowd.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- For extra crispiness, cook 1–2 more minutes at the end.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Transfer to a serving bowl.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Broccoli
Dry Well – Moisture prevents browning, so make sure your broccoli is dry.
Even Cuts – Similar-sized florets cook at the same rate.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed for max crispiness.
Customize Flavors – Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or nutritional yeast.
Use Fresh Broccoli – Frozen can work, but fresh yields the crispiest result.
Serving Suggestions
As a Side Dish – Pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, salmon, or steak.
With Pasta – Toss into a bowl of lemon garlic pasta or creamy Alfredo.
On a Salad – Adds crunch and nutrition to any leafy mix.
With Dips – Serve with ranch, hummus, or garlic aioli as a healthy snack.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze – The texture changes significantly when frozen and thawed.
Reheating:
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until crisp.
Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
Microwave: Softens the texture, but works in a pinch—heat for 30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and pat it dry before cooking for better texture. - Can I make it without oil?
You can, but it won’t be as crispy. Try a light spray of oil for better results. - Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
Absolutely—this is a great low-carb veggie side. - Can I add cheese after air frying?
Yes! Sprinkle freshly grated cheese over hot broccoli just before serving. - Can I use other seasonings?
Definitely—try taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or lemon pepper for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Broccoli is a game-changer—quick, healthy, and full of flavor with a perfectly crisp bite. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight side dish or a healthy snack alternative, this easy recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Customize it to suit your taste and enjoy a new favorite way to eat your greens.
Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your crispy creations.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 180mg

Air Fryer Broccoli
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, this Air Fryer Broccoli is the easiest way to enjoy your greens. With just a few simple ingredients and under 15 minutes of cook time, you’ll have perfectly roasted broccoli that’s tender on the inside and crisp on the edges—just like oven-roasted, but faster and even more delicious. Serve it as a healthy snack, side dish, or veggie boost for any meal.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Broccoli:
-
1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups florets)
-
1½ tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
¼ tsp onion powder
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
-
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
-
Wash and dry the broccoli thoroughly.
-
Cut into uniform bite-sized florets. This helps them cook evenly.
-
Pat dry again if needed—dry florets get crispier.
Step 2: Season the Broccoli
-
In a mixing bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Add Parmesan cheese if using and toss again to coat.
Step 3: Air Fry the Broccoli
-
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes.
-
Add the broccoli to the basket in a single layer—don’t overcrowd.
-
Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
-
For extra crispiness, cook 1–2 more minutes at the end.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
-
Transfer to a serving bowl.
-
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired.
-
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Dry Well – Moisture prevents browning, so make sure your broccoli is dry.
Even Cuts – Similar-sized florets cook at the same rate.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed for max crispiness.
Customize Flavors – Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or nutritional yeast.
Use Fresh Broccoli – Frozen can work, but fresh yields the crispiest result.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American