Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer. In fact, it is recommended to cook it from frozen to get the best texture and avoid sogginess. It's a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook broccoli, and you can have a delicious and crispy side dish ready in just a few minutes.

How long to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer. It's a quick and easy way to cook frozen vegetables without them turning soggy.

The cooking time will depend on the quantity of broccoli and the model of the air fryer. However, the general consensus is that frozen broccoli should be cooked for 10–20 minutes at 380–400°F (204°C).

It is recommended to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and browning.

• Preheat the air fryer to 380–400°F (204°C) for at least 5 minutes.
• In a bowl, add oil and seasonings to the frozen broccoli. Stir well to ensure an even coating.
• Spray the air fryer basket with oil.
• Place the broccoli in the air fryer in a single layer.
• Air fry for 6 minutes, then remove the basket and add in any smaller florets that might cook quicker.
• Shake the basket well, then put it back and continue to cook for 5–6 minutes, or until the broccoli is lightly browned with crispy edges.

Air fryer temperature for frozen broccoli

Yes, you can cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer. It's a quick and easy way to cook frozen vegetables, and they will come out crispy and tasty.

Step One:

Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F (204 °C) for at least 5 minutes.

Step Two:

In a bowl, add olive oil or avocado oil, and your chosen seasonings to the frozen broccoli. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or lemon pepper.

Step Three:

For the best results, separate any very small florets and set them aside to add halfway through cooking, as they can burn quickly.

Step Four:

Spray the air fryer basket with avocado or olive oil spray. Place the broccoli in the air fryer in a single layer, adding the small florets after 5-6 minutes. Shake the basket well and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, or until the broccoli is lightly browned with crispy edges.

Step Five:

Serve immediately. You can also store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, although it is best eaten fresh.

Some tips for cooking frozen broccoli in an air fryer:

• Don't overcrowd the basket, as this can result in soggy or unevenly cooked broccoli.
• Always shake the basket at least once during cooking to promote even cooking and browning.
• Don't thaw the broccoli before cooking, as this can make it soggy.
• You can line the basket with foil for easier cleanup, but this may affect how crispy the broccoli gets.
• If you like your broccoli with a bit of char, add about 2 tablespoons of water to the basket to prevent burning.

Can you put frozen broccoli straight into an air fryer?

Yes, you can put frozen broccoli straight into an air fryer! In fact, it's recommended to cook frozen broccoli this way, as it helps to achieve the best texture—no sogginess!

Here's a simple recipe for air-fried frozen broccoli:

Ingredients:

• Frozen broccoli florets
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to between 380 and 400°F.
• Place your frozen broccoli florets into a large bowl.
• Drizzle oil and any desired seasonings over the broccoli. Toss to coat evenly.
• Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches may be necessary, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Air fry for 10-20 minutes, shaking the basket at the halfway point, until the broccoli reaches your desired level of crispiness.

And that's it! A simple, tasty, and healthy side dish, ready in under 20 minutes.

Best oil for cooking frozen broccoli in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer! It's a great way to get a tasty, healthy side dish on the table in no time.

While you can use an air fryer without oil, adding a little oil to frozen broccoli will help it crisp up. Avocado oil is a great choice as it has a high smoke point, but olive oil also works well. You can also use an oil spray to minimise the amount of oil used.

How to Cook Frozen Broccoli in an Air Fryer

The key to getting crispy broccoli is to cook it from frozen. Do not thaw the broccoli before cooking, as this can make it soggy. Here are the steps to follow:

• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F (204 °C).
• In a bowl, toss the frozen broccoli florets with oil and your choice of seasonings. You can use a simple mix of salt and pepper, or try something more adventurous like lemon pepper, garlic Parmesan, or spicy buffalo sauce.
• Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the broccoli is not overcrowded, as this can cause it to steam instead of roast.
• Air fry for 10-20 minutes, stirring or shaking the basket at least once, until the desired level of crispiness is achieved. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
• Serve immediately. You can top with some grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Seasoning ideas for frozen broccoli in an air fryer

There are many ways to season frozen broccoli cooked in an air fryer. Here are some ideas:

Lemon Pepper Broccoli

Add some freshly minced garlic, lemon zest, and extra pepper to your broccoli before cooking for a bright and zesty kick.

Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

Use the same spices as in other recipes, but finish by tossing the cooked broccoli in a few tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Spicy Broccoli

Add extra red pepper flakes to the seasoning and lightly drizzle some buffalo wing hot sauce on top of the broccoli when it's finished cooking.

Everything but the Bagel Broccoli

When the broccoli is finished cooking, add 1 tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning and toss to combine.

Lemon Herb Broccoli

Add a sprinkle of thyme and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the broccoli before serving.

Southwestern Broccoli

Try a southwestern spice blend with your broccoli. This could include chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.

Italian Broccoli

Use an Italian seasoning blend, which often includes herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary.

Parmesan Broccoli

Top the cooked broccoli with some grated parmesan cheese.

Curry Broccoli

Add a dash of curry powder to the broccoli for an Indian-inspired flavour.

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