This 10-minute air fryer broccoli recipe transforms ordinary florets into crispy, golden-brown delights with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, these low-calorie, nutrient-packed morsels deliver a satisfying crunch while keeping your health goals on track.

At just 54 calories per serving, you’ll get a generous dose of vitamins A and C, plus essential fiber – making this simple side dish both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

Fresh Broccoli: 3 cups of florets, washed and thoroughly dried for best results
Oil: 1 tablespoon, helps achieve perfect crispiness
Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste for basic yet delicious flavor

Instructions

Preparation: Combine broccoli florets and oil in a mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently until evenly coated
Air Fryer Setup: Transfer the seasoned broccoli into your air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer if possible
Initial Cooking: Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and start the cooking process
Mid-Cook Shake: At the 5-minute mark, pause and shake the basket to ensure even cooking
Final Cooking: Continue cooking for the remaining 5 minutes until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness
Serving: Remove from air fryer and serve immediately while hot and crispy

Cooking Techniques

The magic of air frying brings out the best in broccoli! A quick toss in oil helps create crispy edges while keeping the inside tender. The mid-cooking shake at 5 minutes is a simple but smart move – it helps your broccoli cook evenly and prevents any pieces from getting too dark. If you like extra crispy bits, you can bump up the temperature to 350°F, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Quick Variations

Want to jazz up your air fryer broccoli? Try these easy add-ons:
Sprinkle with garlic powder before cooking
Add a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Top with grated parmesan cheese right after cooking
Drizzle with sesame oil instead of regular oil for an Asian twist

Serving Ideas

This crispy broccoli makes a perfect side dish for almost any meal! Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, add it to your grain bowls, or enjoy it as a healthy snack. For extra fun, set out some dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or sweet chili sauce. Kids often love dunking their “little trees” in their favorite sauce!

Storage Tips

While this broccoli is best fresh from the air fryer, you can save leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 300°F. The broccoli might not be quite as crispy as when first made, but it’ll still taste great!