Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Parmesan
Crispy air fryer broccoli parmesan with golden roasted edges, cheesy flavor, and a simple 10-minute method—an easy vegetable side dish for weeknight dinners.
Quick Facts
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 13–15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 large head broccoli, cut into medium florets
1 ½ tbsp olive oil
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice, optional
1 tbsp chopped parsley, optional
Directions
1. Pat the broccoli very dry with paper towels so the edges can crisp instead of steam.
2. Add the broccoli to a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle in half of the parmesan and toss again so it sticks lightly to the florets.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F / 200°C for 2–3 minutes.
5. Place the broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking once halfway through.
6. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan over the hot broccoli during the last 1–2 minutes or right after cooking.
7. Finish with lemon juice and parsley if desired. Serve immediately while the edges are crispy.
Notes / Tips
Dry broccoli is the secret to crispy edges. Wet florets will steam and turn soft.
Do not overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed.
Add part of the parmesan near the end so it turns golden instead of burning.
For extra crispy edges, cut the florets with one flat side so they brown better in the basket.
Variations
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy parmesan broccoli version.
Add a little lemon zest after cooking for a brighter flavor.
Use Italian seasoning instead of smoked paprika for a more classic side dish.
Add a light drizzle of garlic butter after cooking for a richer finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 118
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 6 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 310 mg
Looking for even more air fryer ideas?
Browse my Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners on Amazon for more easy meals, practical tips, and everyday air fryer recipes.
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