Crispy, savory, and bursting with flavor, this garlic-Parmesan air fryer broccoli makes a fantastic side dish or nutritious snack. The air fryer’s hot circulation seals in both freshness and taste, helping you whip up a delightful plate of greens with minimal oil and maximum crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Begin by washing and thoroughly drying your broccoli florets. Preheating the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) helps you achieve a crisp crust on the florets right from the start. Meanwhile, toss the broccoli in a mixing bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until each piece is evenly coated.
Carefully arrange the seasoned florets in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly, giving you that delicious, golden finish. Cook for about 8 minutes, then pause to shake the basket or flip the florets for even browning. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until they reach your desired crispiness.
Right before serving, sprinkle your broccoli with Parmesan cheese and a light dusting of red chili flakes if you crave a spicy kick. A quick additional burst of heat in the air fryer—about 1–2 minutes—will melt the cheese and seal in the flavors.
Finally, transfer your crunchy, garlicky, and cheesy broccoli florets onto a serving plate. They’re best enjoyed right away while still piping hot and aromatic.
This air fryer broccoli recipe is both nutritious and quick, appealing to busy folks looking for a convenient way to get more vegetables on the table. The Parmesan adds a savory dimension, while garlic infuses a fragrant depth. If you’d like a dairy-free option, skip the cheese and use a favorite spice blend instead. Need a milder flavor? Reduce the garlic or eliminate the chili flakes. Whichever variation you choose, this dish shows how a simple ingredient can transform into a mouthwatering highlight of any meal.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
