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Broccoli in the Air Fryer

Learning how to make broccoli in the air fryer will rock your low-carb vegetable world. It is fast and easy and roasts the florets in a way the traditional oven never could without burning them. Once you cook it this way, you’ll never steam broccoli on the stovetop or in the microwave again.

Cooked broccoli florets in an air fryer basket, lightly charred with visible seasoning specks.
Broccoli in the Air Fryer. Photo credit: On and Off Keto.

Making broccoli in the air fryer

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We know that broccoli is one of the best low carb vegetables. I have it as a side with practically all of my meals. Also, if I have leftovers from this recipe, I’ll use some in my Breakfast Casserole with Bacon and Cheese.

The beauty of cooking with an air fryer is that you can achieve a crispy, almost fried taste without the need for deep frying. This method can transform previously unappetizing vegetables — at least in the eyes of your children, if you have any still living at home — into something that’s nearly as enjoyable as eating French fries. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy those cravings for crunch!

Ingredients

There are only four ingredients for making broccoli in the air fryer. They are:

  • 1 broccoli bunch
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preheating your air fryer to 350 F for about 3 minutes. While it’s heating up, cut the broccoli into florets, ensuring they are similar in size for even cooking.

In a mixing bowl, combine avocado oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss the broccoli florets in the mixture until they are well coated with the seasonings.

Next, arrange the seasoned broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Place the basket into the air fryer and cook the broccoli for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the broccoli is tender. Remember to shake the basket or use tongs to toss the broccoli halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Enjoy your deliciously crispy air-fried broccoli!

Broccoli florets cooked in an air fryer, placed in a black basket on a white surface.
Broccoli in the Air Fryer. Photo credit: On and Off Keto.

Notes

Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of your broccoli florets. Thicker or larger florets may require additional cooking time. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can add other spices like garlic powder or chili flakes for an extra kick of flavor.

I usually use fresh broccoli, but during the colder months when fresh, local broccoli isn’t available, I opt for frozen broccoli. This saves me time since the florets come pre-cut in the bag. You can use frozen broccoli year-round if that’s what you prefer; it’s a convenient option that can make meal prep easier!

I use avocado oil to coat my broccoli. However, you’re free to use any high smoke point oil when cooking in your air fryer.

A white plate showcases roasted broccoli florets, perfectly crisped in the air fryer, with a fork resting beside them.
Photo credit: On and Off Keto.
Cooked broccoli florets in an air fryer basket, lightly charred with visible seasoning specks.

Broccoli in the Air Fryer

Learning how to make broccoli in the air fryer will rock your low-carb vegetable world. It is fast and easy and roasts the florets in a way the traditional oven never could without burning them. Once you cook it this way, you'll never steam broccoli on the stovetop or in the microwave again.
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Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Side Dishes, Vegetables side
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 114kcal
Author: Leah Ingram

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 broccoli bunch
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer to 350 F (175 C) for about 3 minutes.
  • Cut the broccoli into florets, making sure they are similar in size for even cooking.
  • In a mixing bowl, add avocado oil, salt and black pepper.
  • Mix until the broccoli florets are well coated.
  • Arrange the seasoned broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
  • Place the basket into the air fryer and cook the broccoli for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the broccoli is tender.
  • Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or use tongs to toss the broccoli for even browning.
  • Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the air fryer and transfer to a serving dish. Serve hot as a side dish or a healthy snack.

Notes

Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the broccoli florets. Thicker florets may require additional cooking time.
Feel free to customize the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add other spices like garlic powder or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Be mindful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as it may lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if needed.
I use avocado oil. However, you’re free to use any high smoke point oil when cooking in your air fryer.

Nutrition

Calories: 114kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 341mg | Potassium: 482mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 948IU | Vitamin C: 136mg | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 1mg