Description
Learn how to make perfectly crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli with this easy recipe. Fresh broccoli florets are tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, and seasonings, then air fried to golden perfection in just 10-12 minutes. This healthy, family-friendly side dish is crispy on the edges, tender inside, and packed with savory garlic flavor.
Ingredients
For the Broccoli:
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into bite-size florets (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (just enough to help the seasonings stick and create those crispy edges)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (the star of the show—gives that warm, savory depth)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (adds a subtle sweetness that balances the garlic)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked if you have it)
Optional Finishing Touches:
- Fresh lemon zest (for brightness)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for a salty, nutty finish)
- Fresh lemon juice (a quick squeeze right before serving)
Instructions
Start by washing your broccoli florets under cool water, then here’s the important part—dry them really, really well. Use a kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them completely dry.
Any moisture left on the florets will steam them instead of crisping them, and we definitely don’t want that. Cut the florets into similar-sized pieces, about 1 to 1½ inches each, so they cook evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, add your dried broccoli florets. Drizzle the olive oil over them, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Now comes the fun part—use your hands to toss everything together, making sure each floret gets coated with that garlicky goodness. Don’t be shy here; really work the oil and seasonings into all those nooks and crannies.
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Once it’s ready, arrange the seasoned broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Don’t overcrowd them—the florets need space for the hot air to circulate and create those crispy edges. If your basket is on the smaller side, you might need to cook in two batches, and that’s perfectly fine.
Cook the broccoli for 10 to 12 minutes, but here’s the key: at the 5 or 6-minute mark, pause and give the basket a good shake. This ensures all sides get that beautiful golden color.
You’ll know they’re done when the edges are crispy and slightly charred, and the stems are fork-tender. If you like them extra crispy, add another minute or two, but keep a close eye so they don’t burn.
Transfer your perfectly crispy broccoli to a serving dish. This is when you can get creative—add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for brightness, or shower it with grated Parmesan for a salty, nutty finish.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a lovely pop of acidity that cuts through the richness. Serve immediately while they’re at their crispiest and most delicious.
Notes
- Don’t skip preheating – A preheated air fryer gives you that immediate sizzle and helps create crispier edges from the start.
- Shake, don’t skip – That halfway shake isn’t optional; it’s what prevents one side from burning while the other stays pale.
- Save the stems – Don’t throw away those broccoli stems! Peel the tough outer layer, slice them into rounds, and air fry them right alongside the florets.
- Oil measurement matters – Too much oil makes them greasy; too little and they won’t crisp up. Two tablespoons is the sweet spot for about 4 cups of florets.
- Fresh garlic option – If you want to use fresh minced garlic instead of powder, add it during the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American