Name: Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional); 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s impossibly easy yet bursting with bold flavor and addictive crunch, let me introduce you to Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli. This recipe transforms humble broccoli florets into little emerald bites with golden edges and plenty of garlicky goodness. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even as a healthy snack that will have everyone sneaking seconds. Let me show you why this will soon be your go-to way to cook broccoli!

Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli is the short and sweet ingredient list. Each component is chosen for maximum flavor, crispiness, and that little “wow” factor that makes people linger over the veggie platter.

Broccoli: The fresher the better! Florets roast up fast and get those perfectly crisp edges.
Olive oil: Just enough to coat the broccoli and help everything crisp up beautifully.
Garlic: Minced fresh for bold, aromatic flavor in every bite.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and makes the broccoli truly addictive.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the garlic.
Red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat for those who like a little spice on their veggies.
Parmesan cheese (optional): For a savory finish, freshly grated parmesan melts just right over hot broccoli.
Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze right at the end brightens up every bite.

How to Make Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by firing up your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3 to 5 minutes. This little step gives you a head start on instant crispiness, so your broccoli doesn’t steam but sizzles right from the first moment.

Step 2: Toss the Broccoli with Seasonings

In a large bowl, combine your broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for some heat. Toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated and ready for the magic to happen.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t crowd them—space ensures each floret gets golden and crunchy, not soggy.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Air fry the broccoli for 10 to 12 minutes, stopping halfway through to shake the basket. This gives you that perfect even crispness on all sides, with edges turning irresistibly golden while the inside stays tender.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once your Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli is crackling and golden, transfer it to a serving bowl. Sprinkle over grated parmesan and finish with a bright squeeze of lemon juice if you’re feeling fancy—these extra touches take the broccoli to another level.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Don’t wait! Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli is at its very best hot and fresh out of the fryer, so dish it up and let everyone dive in.

How to Serve Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli

Garnishes

When it comes to serving, a final flourish of parmesan or a dusting of additional chili flakes never goes amiss. You could also sprinkle on fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil to add color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor.

Side Dishes

Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli plays well with almost any main course. It’s wonderful alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, steak, or even spooned over a grain bowl. For a vegetarian feast, try pairing it with creamy risotto or a hearty chickpea stew.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, pile the broccoli onto a rustic wooden board with toothpicks as a finger-food appetizer, or tuck it into wraps, pita pockets, or atop a flatbread pizza for a crispy, flavorful topping. It even makes a vibrant addition to your favorite pasta dishes or grain salads.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, though it’s most irresistible on day one.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but keep in mind the broccoli may lose a bit of its signature crispiness. To freeze, let the broccoli cool completely, then spread it on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. It’s perfect to have on hand for quick lunches or soups.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch, the best way to reheat Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli is to pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes. This crisps the edges right back up, so every bite is as good as the first serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli florets for this recipe?

You can! Just thaw and dry them thoroughly first to keep your Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli from turning out soggy. Frozen broccoli might not get quite as crisp as fresh, but it’s still delicious.

What’s the best way to cut broccoli for air frying?

Cutting the broccoli into even, bite-sized florets ensures quick, even cooking and the crispiest texture. Keep the florets on the smaller side for more surface area and crunch!

Do I need to flip or stir the broccoli halfway?

Absolutely. Shaking or flipping halfway through is the secret to making sure all the broccoli gets exposed to the hot air. This makes your Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli perfectly golden on all sides.

Is this recipe vegan or gluten-free?

Yes, the base recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free! Just skip the parmesan or use your favorite dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

Why isn’t my broccoli getting crispy?

If your broccoli comes out less than crisp, it’s usually because of overcrowding or too much moisture. Try cooking in batches and make sure the florets are totally dry before seasoning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about taking plain broccoli and turning it into a seriously crave-worthy side in just minutes. If you love an easy, healthy dish with loads of flavor and crunch, Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli is truly impossible to resist. Give it a try and watch how fast your plate disappears—it just might become your newest obsession!

Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy crispy and flavorful broccoli with this easy recipe for Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli.

Ingredients

Scale

Broccoli:

1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Toss Broccoli: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Air Fry: Place seasoned broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Finish: Once crispy, remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with parmesan and lemon juice.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: International