Air Fryer Broccoli is the easiest way to make crispy, flavorful broccoli in less time than the oven. With simple seasonings and perfectly tender florets, this easy side dish is ready in minutes and pairs well with almost any meal.
We make this family-tested recipe on busy weeknights because it is quick, affordable, and even picky eaters enjoy the crispy texture. If you’re looking for an easy way to add more vegetables to dinner, this recipe is a must-try.
This is a guaranteed way to get even the pickiest eaters to eat broccoli! The air fryer gives the broccoli such a crispy texture, amazing taste and it is the best side dish.
If you enjoyed our recipe for Air Fryer Cauliflower, Air Fryer Potatoes, Air Fryer Gnocchi and Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe, this new recipe is a must try. My family loves vegetables in the air fryer and it is super easy. You may even like this Air Fryer Beef Jerky.
For another easy recipe, try our Smashed Broccoli.
Why This Recipe Works
Using the air fryer has been a game changer for my family. I still love to roast broccoli in the oven, but making it in the air fryer is perfect for the summer time.
The tender broccoli has the perfect amount of crunch while being tender on the inside. The garlic salt gives it the perfect amount of flavor. It isn’t overpowering but just enough to really give the broccoli the best flavor.
You can enjoy a delicious air fryer broccoli recipe while eating keto or low carb. In fact, the entire family will love this!
Ingredients
- Broccoli Florets – Fresh broccoli florets cook up crisp and tender in the air fryer. For even cooking, cut the florets into similar-sized pieces. You can also use frozen broccoli, but it may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
- Olive Oil – Helps the broccoli develop crispy edges while preventing it from drying out. Avocado oil is a great substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a mild garlic flavor that pairs perfectly with broccoli. Feel free to increase the amount if your family loves garlic.
- Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the broccoli. Kosher salt or sea salt both work well.
- Black Pepper – Adds simple seasoning and a touch of spice. Freshly ground black pepper provides the best flavor.
Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli
Step 1 – Toss all the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl to thoroughly coat the fresh broccoli with the olive oil and seasonings.
Step 2 – Place the seasoned broccoli in an air fryer and cook at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes. Toss the broccoli halfway through until the broccoli is the crispiness that you prefer. Serve cooked broccoli and Enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Cutting Broccoli – We recommend cutting the broccoli in about the same size pieces. This helps to cook them evenly.
- Coat Broccoli – Make sure to coat broccoli in the oil and seasoning for the best results.
- Air Fryer – If your air fryer has the pre heat option, we recommend using it before air-frying broccoli. If not, I like to turn my on for a few minutes before placing the broccoli in.
Seasoning Ideas
Feel free to add your favorite seasoning to this delicious side dish. These are some ideas to try.
- Parmesan Cheese – Try this Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
- Onion Powder
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Season Salt
Serving Suggestions
So many options but here are a few favorites around here.
- The Best Blackened Chicken Recipe
- Easy Grilled Chicken Kabob Recipe
- Cube Steak and Gravy
- Grilled Steak
- Grilled Mahi Mahi Recipe
- The Best Blackened Tilapia Recipe
- Baked Pineapple BBQ chicken recipe
- Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp Recipe
- Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
- Griddle Steak
- Beef Tips and Noodles
- Crock Pot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes
- Hamburger Hash
Frequently Asked Questions
Fresh or frozen, this broccoli is a great side dish either way.
To prevent your broccoli from burning, make sure to coat in oil before placing in the air fryer basket.
Yes, you can prepare and make broccoli ahead of time in the air fryer. Once it has cooled, store in the fridge. This makes it nice to meal prep your lunches for the week. The broccoli may not have the crispy texture after reheating the microwave.
Overcrowding the basket can cause steaming instead of crisping. Cook in a single layer whenever possible.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
- Storing – Store the leftover broccoli after it has cooled in airtight container in the refrigerator. The leftovers will last about 3-4 days.
- Reheating – Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or place back in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes.
More Easy Air Fryer Side Dishes
If you are looking to make an easy side dish, try Air Fryer Broccoli. Make sure to come back and leave a comment or a star review.
Air Fryer Broccoli
Ingredients
- 3 Cups Broccoli Florets
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Pepper
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Instructions
- Place 3 cups broccoli florets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper in a large mixing bowl. Toss until the broccoli is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Place the seasoned broccoli in an air fryer in a single layer with some space between the florets (you may have to work in batches.
- Cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit in the air fryer for 10-15 minutes (toss the broccoli halfway through) until the broccoli is the crispiness that you prefer.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Don’t forget to chop up the rest of the broccoli and not just use florets
Great tip! Thanks for sharing Janis!