Air fryer broccoli is a quick, easy to make side dish that cooks in less than 10 minutes. Plus, you only need 7 ingredients to make this air fryer broccoli recipe. The air fryer broccoli is crisp but tender, and it does not have a mushy texture, so it’s the perfect tasty side dish. 

How Should I Cook Broccoli In The Air Fryer

Broccoli does not take long to cook in the air fryer. It only takes 5-6 minutes to cook broccoli in the air fryer.

Should I Steam Broccoli Before Air Frying

You don’t need to steam your broccoli before you make this air fryer broccoli recipe. The broccoli will cook in less than 10 minutes, so there is no need to steam it. If you steam the broccoli before air frying, it could end up overcooked. 

How Do I Keep Broccoli From Burning In My Air Fryer

Water helps prevent broccoli from burning in the air fryer. Place 1-2 tablespoons of water in the bottom of the air fryer basket before you add the broccoli. The water will evaporate, soften the broccoli, and prevent it from burning. 

Can I Cook Frozen Broccoli In Air Fryer

Ideally, you want to use fresh broccoli to make air fryer broccoli. However, if you don’t have fresh broccoli, you can air-fry frozen broccoli. 

*Note: if you use frozen broccoli, it will not be as crispy as fresh broccoli.*  

Nevertheless, the air-fried frozen broccoli will still be delicious. 

To air-fry frozen broccoli: 

1. Set the air fryer to 400°F. Let it preheat for 3 minutes.
2. Place the frozen broccoli florets into the air fryer basket and air fry the broccoli for 4 minutes. It will help the frozen broccoli thaw so the seasonings and oil can stick to them. 
3. Whisk the olive oil, garlic powder, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, and lemon pepper in a large bowl until combined. 
4. Take the broccoli florets out of the air fryer. Place them in the bowl with the seasonings and oil. Toss until they are coated in the olive oil and seasonings. 
5. Place the broccoli florets back into the air fryer and cook it for another 6-10 minutes, tossing it every 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. 

Tips For Making Air Fryer Broccoli

Cut your broccoli florets into pieces that are the same size. They will cook evenly, creating tender broccoli with crisp edges. If the broccoli florets are cut into uneven pieces, they will cook unevenly. 

Make sure your broccoli florets are dry. If there is any water on the broccoli it will steam instead of browning and developing a crispy texture. 

Season the broccoli in a bowl. It allows you to toss the broccoli in the bowl and ensure each broccoli floret is coated in the oil and seasonings. 

Cook the broccoli in batches if necessary. Place the broccoli in an air fryer basket in an even layer. This will allow the broccoli florets to cook evenly and develop crispy edges. Do not overcrowd the basket, or your broccoli will steam instead of air fry. 

If you prefer crispier broccoli florets, toss the florets once the timer is finished. Cook them for 1 minute at 390°F. 

Air fryer broccoli is meant to be served the minute it comes out of the air fryer. If you let the air fryer broccoli sit for too long, it will soften and lose its crisp texture. No one likes soggy air-fried broccoli, so make sure it’s the last thing you cook before serving dinner. 

Can I Make Air Fryer Broccoli Ahead Of Time

Again, air fryer broccoli is best served fresh. However, technically you can make it ahead of time. 

Alternatively, you can prep your broccoli by cutting it into small florets. You can store it in the fridge, pull it out and air fry it anytime you need a quick side dish. 

How To Store Air Fryer Broccoli

To store air fryer broccoli, let it cool completely. Place the broccoli florets into an airtight container, then place them in the fridge. The air fryer broccoli will last for 4-5 days in the fridge. 

Can I Freeze Air Fryer Broccoli 

I do not recommend freezing air fryer broccoli. When you reheat the broccoli, it will have a mushy texture.

More Side Dishes: