Air-Fryer Broccoli: Frozen To Crispy In Minutes

Air fryers are a great way to cook frozen broccoli. The process is simple, quick, and easy. It is also a healthy way to cook broccoli, as it requires minimal oil. The result is a crispy, tasty side dish that goes with any meal.

How to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Frozen broccoli florets
• Oil (olive, avocado, or another oil with a high smoke point)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Other seasonings of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes)

Utensils

• Air fryer
• Bowl
• Spray bottle (optional)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F for about 5 minutes.
• In a bowl, add oil and seasonings to the frozen broccoli. Stir or toss the mixture until the oil and seasoning are evenly distributed.
• Spray the air fryer basket with oil or line it with foil (optional).
• Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket 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 in and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, or until the broccoli is lightly browned with crispy edges.
• Serve immediately.

Tips

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket—this can result in soggy or unevenly cooked broccoli.
• 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.
• For extra crispy broccoli, lightly spray or coat the florets with oil before adding them to the air fryer.

The best oil to use for frozen broccoli in an air fryer

Air-fried frozen broccoli is a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that can be made in a matter of minutes. It is healthy, low-carb, and nutrient-dense, and can be paired with a variety of proteins. The key to getting crispy broccoli is to ensure that the hot air circulates freely around the florets.

Oils to use

Avocado oil and olive oil are the two most commonly recommended oils for cooking frozen broccoli in an air fryer. Avocado oil has a high smoke point, which means it won't create a residue that is difficult to clean. Olive oil is also a good option, but it may not be suitable for oils sprays.

How to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F (204 °C) for at least 5 minutes.
• In a bowl, toss the frozen broccoli florets with oil and seasonings. You can use a variety of seasonings like smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Place the broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket as this can cause the broccoli to steam instead of roast.
• Air fry for a total of 10-20 minutes, stirring and shaking the basket at least once, until the desired level of crispiness is achieved.
• Serve immediately. You can top with Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast, or a sauce of your choice.

How to prevent frozen broccoli from becoming soggy in an air fryer

Preheating the Air Fryer

Before cooking, it is important to preheat the air fryer. This is a crucial step, as it ensures that the food cooks evenly and gets crispy. Set the temperature to 380-400°F and preheat for about 5 minutes.

Using the Right Oil

Avocado oil spray is recommended for cooking frozen broccoli in an air fryer. It has a higher smoke point than regular cooking spray, so it won't create a difficult-to-clean residue. Avocado oil is also a great option due to its high smoke point, but olive oil can be used as well.

Avoiding Overcrowding

Overcrowding the air fryer basket is a common mistake that can lead to soggy broccoli. It is important to allow enough space for air to circulate. Arrange the broccoli in a single layer, ensuring that the pieces are not overlapping too much. This promotes even cooking and browning.

Shaking the Basket

Shaking the air fryer basket at least once during cooking is essential. This step ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly and helps to prevent sogginess. It is recommended to shake the basket at the halfway point of the cooking process.

Adding Seasonings

Adding seasonings to the frozen broccoli can enhance its flavor. A simple blend of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can be used. Alternatively, you can get creative and experiment with chili powder, curry powder, cumin, or onion powder.

Cooking Time and Temperature

The cooking time and temperature will depend on the model of your air fryer and the size of the broccoli florets. As a general guideline, cook frozen broccoli at 400°F for 10-20 minutes, stirring or shaking the basket at least once. For smaller florets, keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking, and consider reducing the cooking time.

Additional Tips

• Pick out and set aside any super small florets to add halfway through cooking, as they can burn quickly.
• Line the air fryer basket with foil for easier cleanup, but be aware that this may affect the crispiness of the broccoli.
• If you prefer your broccoli with a slight crisp, add a minute or two to the cooking time.
• For a sauce, try garlic chilli sauce, ranch dressing, or buffalo wing hot sauce.

How long to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer

Frozen broccoli is a great option for an easy and delicious side dish. Cooking it in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to get crispy, tasty broccoli without the sogginess that comes from microwaving or steaming. Here's a step-by-step guide to cooking frozen broccoli in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Frozen broccoli florets (a 16oz bag is perfect for a 6-quart air fryer)
• Oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Other seasonings of your choice (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, etc.)

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204 °C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important to ensure your broccoli gets crispy and doesn't turn soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Place the frozen broccoli florets in a large bowl. Drizzle or spray oil over the broccoli and add your desired seasonings. Toss everything together to ensure the oil and seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Place the seasoned broccoli in the air fryer basket or tray, spreading it out in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 10 minutes, then remove the basket, shake it well, and add any smaller florets that might cook faster.

Step 4: Finish Cooking and Serve

Place the basket back in the air fryer and cook for another 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispness. The total cook time will be around 15-20 minutes. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips:

• Don't thaw the broccoli before cooking. Cooking it frozen helps achieve the desired crispness.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow for proper air circulation.
• Line the basket with foil for easier cleanup, but be aware that this may affect crisping.
• Get creative with your seasonings! Try a blend of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

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 the previous recipe, but finish by tossing the cooked broccoli in a few tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Spicy Broccoli

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning and lightly drizzle some buffalo wing hot sauce on top of the broccoli once 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 Garlic Butter Broccoli

Pair your air fryer frozen broccoli with frozen salmon and Brussels sprouts for an easy and delicious companion dish. Alternatively, use it as the base of a lemon garlic butter broccoli recipe.

Parmesan Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Top your air fryer frozen broccoli with parmesan cheese before serving. If you're dairy-free, try using Paleo parmesan cheese instead.

Breaded Broccoli

Sprinkle Italian-style or gluten-free Japanese panko breadcrumbs on your frozen broccoli to make a breaded, crispy dish.

Southwestern, Cajun, or Italian Broccoli

Customise your spice blend to suit your taste preferences. Try a Southwestern, Cajun, or Italian spice mix to change things up.

Frequently asked questions