Sometimes a side dish surprises you—the kind that sneaks onto your plate and suddenly you’re reaching for more, forgetting it’s just broccoli. This version, cooked in the air fryer, nails that balance between tender and crispy with a bit of garlic and Parmesan magic. It’s one of those small kitchen victories that feels like cheating the system, especially when dinner needs a quick, healthy boost.
The last time I made these, I was juggling dinner and a phone call, so I didn’t time things exactly right. I ended up shaking the basket a little too late, but honestly, it still came out golden and flavorful—maybe even better because of the uneven crisp. The scent of garlic wafting through the kitchen had me hovering nearby, trying not to burn my fingers grabbing a floret before plating. There’s something about that first bite—the crunch giving way to the tender green—that makes you want to cook broccoli this way every time.
- The air fryer does most of the work, so you get crispy edges without standing over the stove.
- Seasoned simply but well, it’s a side that complements everything from roasted chicken to pasta.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just straightforward deliciousness.
- Because it’s quick, it’s easy to whip up on a weeknight when time’s tight but you still want something fresh.
If you’re worried about the air fryer basket crowding or uneven cooking, just remember it’s okay to work in batches. It might slow you down a bit, but the results are worth it.
PrintAir Fryer Broccoli Florets
Crispy and tender air fryer broccoli florets seasoned with garlic and Parmesan cheese, perfect as a healthy side dish or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
1 pound broccoli florets, washed and dried
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Place the seasoned broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches for even cooking.
Air fry the broccoli florets at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
After 10 minutes, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli florets and air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove the broccoli from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Using the air fryer means you don’t need fancy equipment—just a reliable basket that lets hot air circulate around the broccoli. I usually serve these florets alongside a juicy grilled chicken or toss them into a grain bowl with a drizzle of lemon. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top after cooking, though I haven’t tested if that changes the texture much—worth trying if you love extra cheesiness. For a little twist, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes before air frying gives a subtle kick. If you’re in a hurry, you could skip the Parmesan and still get nicely crisped broccoli, although you’d miss that nutty finish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli? I haven’t tested this exact method with frozen, but it might work if you dry it well first—just expect a bit more moisture and possibly less crisp.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the air fryer to regain some crispiness.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe uses simple seasonings and Parmesan, which is naturally gluten-free.
Give these air fryer broccoli florets a try next time you want a quick, tasty side that feels a little special. I hope you enjoy the crunch and flavor as much as I do.