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My air fryer broccoli is crisp and tender and cooks in just 6 minutes. It’s perfectly seasoned and perfect as a healthy and fast veggie side dish.
If you’ve ever been a broccoli hater, you need to give air frying broccoli a go.
The broccoli florets turn out perfectly crispy, while the stem remains tender. I use a simple yet flavor-packed seasoning combination to make this the ultimate side.
Why I love this recipe
- It’s quick. This ticks both boxes when you need a healthy side dish in minutes.
- Healthy. Broccoli is packed with antioxidants and fiber while being low in calories and fat. With a touch of salt and sugar, you get a sinfully good dish!
- Minimal mess. There’s no messy oil or multiple pots and pans to clean up after.
If you need more air fryer sides, try my air fryer baked potato, air fryer corn on the cob, air fryer baby potatoes, and air fryer asparagus next.
Key Ingredients
- Broccoli. Use fresh broccoli florets cut into equal-sized pieces. Also, be sure to pat dry the vegetable completely.
- Olive oil. Just a touch to guarantee crispy florets. I either use standard olive oil or an olive oil spray.
- Sugar. Yes, you are reading this correctly. I like adding a pinch of sugar (it’s half a teaspoon) to caramelize the florets and balance out the naturally salty flavors.
- Salt and black pepper. To taste.
- Red pepper flakes. Optional, but I like to add a little for a touch of heat.
- Lemon slices and fresh parmesan. To serve.
How to make air fryer broccoli
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Step 1- Season. In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with the oil and spices.
Step 2- Air fry. Add the broccoli to the air fryer basket and cook for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3- Remove from the air fryer and serve with fresh lemon.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Adjust the cook time. Depending on the size of your air fryer (and your florets), your broccoli may take more or less time to cook. I suggest checking it after 5 minutes, then every 2 minutes until it’s done.
- Avoid overlapping the broccoli in the basket. You want each piece to get equal access to the heat. If needed, work in batches.
- Shake the basket periodically. To ensure each side cooks evenly.
Storage instructions
To store: Put leftover cooked broccoli in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for 5-7 days.
To freeze: Place the cooked and cooled broccoli in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to six months.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer until warm.
Frequently asked questions
If you prefer softer, steamed broccoli, add one tablespoon of water to the basket before cooking.
If you overcrowd the air fryer basket, it will likely steam the broccoli versus air frying them (aka crisping them up).
More healthy air fryer recipes
- Air fryer cauliflower
- Air fryer salmon
- Air fryer chickpeas
- Air fryer red potatoes
- Air fryer Brussels sprouts
- Air fryer chicken drumsticks
- Air fryer steak
6-Minute Air Fryer Broccoli
Video
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200C/400F.
- Add the chopped broccoli into a mixing bowl. Toss through the olive oil, then add the sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Add the broccoli to the air fryer basket and cook for 6 minutes, shaking several times throughout.
- Remove the broccoli from the air fryer basket and serve immediately.
Notes
- Spices. Add a sprinkling of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- Use different oils. Sesame oil gives it a nutty flavor, and truffle oil makes it much more decadent.
- Add some sauce. Drizzle some balsamic vinegar or hot honey sauce over the top.
Nutrition
Originally updated January 2023, updated and republished February 2025.
Just yesterday I bought brocolli on discount so I could prepare it this way! It seems nice.
This looks delicious. I don’t see you ever mentioning in any of your recipes what air fryer you use.
I’ll be sure to update that now 🙂
Wow only 6 minutes to make this. Air fryer s everything!