Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

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5 from 16 votes
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My air fryer frozen broccoli is crisp and tender and cooks in under 10 minutes. It’s perfectly seasoned and tastes like fresh broccoli- no soggy florets here.

air fryer frozen broccoli in the air fryer.

Skip the microwave for your frozen broccoli and cook it in the air fryer instead. I’ve been known to “roast” frozen broccoli, but this way, I get the same results in a fraction of the time.

The broccoli florets turn out perfectly crispy, while the stem remains tender (yes, no soggy broccoli). I use a simple yet flavor-packed seasoning combination to make this the ultimate frozen veggie glow up. And let’s be real… we all have a packet or three of frozen broccoli for quick veggie sides, and cooking them in the air fryer makes them taste actually delicious.

If you need more air fryer vegetables, try my air fryer baked potato, air fryer corn on the cob, air fryer baby potatoes, and air fryer asparagus next. 

Key Ingredients

  • Frozen broccoli. The best part of using frozen broccoli is that you don’t need to do any chopping or dicing. I’d be wary about which brand you use, as some cheaper ones tend to have broccoli of all shapes and sizes. If possible, aim for ones with equal-ish sized flotets.
  • 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 frozen broccoli

This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.

frozen broccoli florets in a bowl.

Step 1- Season. In a large mixing bowl, toss the frozen broccoli with the oil and spices. 

frozen seasoned broccoli in the air fryer.

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.

air fryer frozen broccoli on a serving dish with garlic yogurt sauce.

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. 
  • Don’t skip the oil. Please, please, please do not skip this. Because of the excess moisture from the ice, the oil is essential to crisp up the florets, not make them soggy and limp.
  • 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. 

air fried frozen broccoli on a plate.

Frequently asked questions

Should I thaw the broccoli?

I tested this recipe with thawed frozen broccoli, and honestly, it tastes much better when it’s still frozen. You also save time by having to thaw it anyway.

More healthy air fryer recipes


If you tried this Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli or any other recipe on my website, please rate the recipe and let me know how it went in the comments below. It really helps others thinking of making the recipe. 

air fryer frozen broccoli recipe.

Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

5 from 16 votes
Learn how to make my foolproof air fryer frozen broccoli recipe that is crispy, tender, and ready in minutes!
Servings: 8 servings
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 10 minutes

Ingredients  

  • 1/2 pound frozen broccoli
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Instructions 

  • Preheat the air fryer to 200C/400F.
  • Add the frozen 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 10 minutes, shaking several times throughout.
  • Remove the broccoli from the air fryer basket and serve immediately.

Notes

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. 
TO REHEAT: Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer until warm.
Recipe variations
  • 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. 
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Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 89kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSodium: 197mgPotassium: 483mgFiber: 4gVitamin A: 966IUVitamin C: 136mgCalcium: 72mgIron: 1mgNET CARBS: 8g
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Author: Arman Liew
Tried this recipe?Give us a shout at @thebigmansworld or tag #thebigmansworld!

Arman Liew

I’m a two time cookbook author, photographer, and writer, and passionate about creating easy and healthier recipes. I believe you don’t need to be experienced in the kitchen to make good food using simple ingredients that most importantly, taste delicious.

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