Whip up this easy air fryer broccoli side dish in 10 minutes or less! Crisp and fresh, without burning or undercooking. Make this easy side with one of our 30+ Best Low Carb Recipes tonight!
![broccoli in a bowl with shaved parmesan cheese and pepper on top](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-20.jpg)
After making my air fryer zucchini chips the other day, I started thinking about making broccoli in the air fryer. This is a veggie we commonly make in our household and my air fryer is always saving me time.
![adding toppings to broccoli](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-11.jpg)
Table of Contents
Recommended Ingredients
This recipe only requires two ingredients. I recommend adding a bit of oil to your air fryer, although it’s not necessary.
Baby broccoli or broccoli florets will work for this recipe.
![broccoli in a bowl with a fork](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-31.jpg)
Is broccoli keto?
While there are no “keto” foods, broccoli is definitely on the keto-friendly list of veggies, as it only has 3 g. net carbs per serving, fresh.
![close up view of a broccoli floret in a bowl fresh from the air fryer](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-14.jpg)
What are other veggies I can use?
Some other low carb veggies to fry include:
- peppers
- cauliflower
- asparagus
- green beans
- squash (zucchini, summer, spaghetti)
- mushrooms
![broccoli in the air fryer basket](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-3-1024x683.jpg)
Can I air fry frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli or other frozen veggies cook well in the air fryer.
How to make air fried broccoli
Broccoli is air fried in 3 simple steps.
- wash
- chop
- air fry (time is dependent upon frozen vs fresh)
![broccoli with a napkin, salt, pepper, and cheese grinder](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-15.jpg)
What to serve with broccoli
I like to serve shredded parmesan cheese atop my broccoli or add it as a side with a healthy protein, like chicken, pork, or beef.
For stir-fry: If you’re cooking a protein, add in the broccoli for the last 10 minutes and you’ve got the easiest stir fry out there!
As a side: To liven up my veggies, I add shaved parmesan cheese or bacon bits/ cheese to them.
![parmesan cheese with napkin and grater](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-9.jpg)
FAQ
How to store broccoli prior to air frying
I store my broccoli wrapped in a moist paper towel overnight or submerged in a ice water bath prior to cooking. I find this helps the broccoli keep it’s crisp flavor and helps to prevent burns while cooking.
![close up of air fried broccoli with cheese](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-30.jpg)
Why does my broccoli burn in the air fryer?
If your broccoli is prone to burning when cooked in the AF, try cooking for a shorter period of time or cooking inside a tin foil pack. Air fryer cooking times are variable depending on the brand/ type you use.
![a fork lifting broccoli from a bowl](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-22.jpg)
Tips for the best broccoli using an air fryer
- do a test run to determine your air fryer settings if you’re afraid of overcooking
- store in a cold, ice water bath for at least a few hours before air frying – this helps broccoli hold on to moisture
- if cooking from frozen, extend time to approximately 13 minutes, making sure to check right before time is up
![broccoli florets in a bowl with shaved parmesan cheese topping and pepper](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/air-fryer-broccoli-with-herbs-and-cheese-300x300.jpg)
Air Fryer Broccoli {Fresh/Frozen/under 10 minutes}
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ lb broccoli florets
- 1 tsp salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil spray optional
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes or garlic powder optional
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
Fresh Broccoli
- Wash broccoli and chop. Toss in olive oil. Add salt and pepper, garlic powder to taste (optional).
- Add broccoli to air fryer and cook at 350°F for 10 minutes, tossing at 5 minutes.
- If more time is required, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Top with parmesan cheese (optional).
From Frozen
- Follow same instructions, except cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Notes
- do a test run with 1 floret to determine your air fryer settings and prevent overcooking
- From frozen: extend time to approximately 13 minutes, making sure to check right before time is up
- Want charred broccoli? I recommend cooking for additional 3-5 minutes.
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