This Air Fryer Broccoli is a flavorful yet versatile side dish. Broccoli florets are tossed with parmesan, olive oil, and seasonings then air fried until crisp-tender.
If you’re like me and struggle with interesting, yet healthy side dishes, then look no further than this air fryer broccoli! This is a fun twist on a classic veggie side dish that’s healthy, delicious, and EASY!
Ingredients
This simple ingredient list creates a surprisingly flavorful, yet healthy side dish to be served next to any main.
- Broccoli Florets – fresh, not frozen. Make sure the florets you use are uniformly cut so they cook evenly.
- Olive Oil – adds healthy fats, flavor, and helps the broccoli get crispy without burning.
- Parmesan Cheese – adds a delicious salty flavor. Use a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to make this plant based.
- Garlic – adds a subtle kick of nutty flavor.
- Salt, Pepper, and Onion Powder – a simple trio of seasonings that keeps the broccoli versatile, but flavorful.
How to make
This healthy vegetable side dish couldn’t be any easier!
- Place broccoli florets into a large bowl, drizzle with oil, then sprinkle with parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir until evenly coated.
- Pour the broccoli into the air fryer preheated to 350ºF.
- Cook for 5-15 minutes, depending how crispy you like your broccoli, then serve and enjoy!
How long to cook broccoli in the air fryer
Broccoli will cook in a pre-heated 350 degree air fryer for 5-15 minutes. Cook time varies based on how big or small the broccoli florets are cut and how crispy you like the broccoli.
I like mine extra crispy so I usually cook it for the full 15 minutes!
Can you use frozen broccoli?
Yes! To cook frozen broccoli in the air fryer:
- Preheat air fryer to 350 degrees F.
- Toss frozen broccoli (don’t thaw) with the oil, cheese, and spices until evenly coated.
- Air fry for 15-25 minutes or until broccoli is cooked to your liking.
Tips
- Cut evenly. Make sure the broccoli florets are uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- Toss thoroughly. Mix the seasonings, oil, and broccoli to evenly distribute the flavor.
- Add water. Try adding a tablespoon of water into the air fryer to prevent burning and help achieve a tender crisp texture.
- Cook to your liking. Your cook time can range anywhere from 5-15 minutes. If you prefer softer broccoli, keep the cook time low. If you like yours extra crispy, cook for the full 15!
What to serve with air fryer broccoli
This air fryer broccoli recipe is ultra flavorful but versatile enough that it can be served as a side dish next to a number of different entrees! Here are some ideas:
How to store
Leftover air fryer broccoli will last in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
To reheat, air fry to warm and re-crisp.
– Jennifer

Air Fryer Broccoli
Equipment for this recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350 degrees F.
- Place broccoli florets into a large bowl, drizzle with oil, then sprinkle with parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder, then stir until evenly coated.
- Pour coated broccoli into the preheated air fryer basket and cook for 5-15 minutes*, or until the broccoli is cooked to your liking.
- Taste and re-season, if necessary, then serve immediately and enjoy!
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Notes
Nutrition Information
*Note: Nutrition information is estimated and varies based on products used.