Air Fryer Parmesan Broccoli
Charred, crispy broccoli with a savoury parmesan crust.
Before You Start
Roasting broccoli in the air fryer gives crispy, charred florets in a fraction of the oven time, and a shower of parmesan crisps into a golden, savoury crust. It converts even the broccoli-averse.
Instructions
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1
Toss the florets with the oil, garlic powder and salt until glossy.
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2
Preheat the air fryer to 190°C / 375°F. Add the broccoli in a single layer, cut side down where you can.
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3
Air fry for 8 minutes, shaking once.
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4
Scatter over the parmesan and air fry for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the broccoli is charred and the cheese is crisp.
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5
Squeeze over the lemon and serve straight away.
Kit that makes this foolproof
A few inexpensive bits that get you crispier results with less mess.
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♨️ Air fryer notes
- Cook at 190°C / 375°F and preheat for 2 to 3 minutes for the crispiest result.
- Keep everything in a single layer with space around each piece. Overcrowding steams food instead of crisping it, so cook in batches if your basket is small.
- Shake or turn halfway, and check a few minutes early, since air fryers cook faster than ovens and every model runs slightly differently.
💡 Cook's tips
- Do not wash and leave the broccoli wet. Dry florets char instead of steaming.
- Add the parmesan for only the last few minutes so it crisps without burning.
🔀 Make it your own
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes with the salt.
- Works the same way with cauliflower or romanesco.
📦 Storing & reheating
Best fresh. Reheat leftovers at 180°C for a few minutes. Good chopped into pasta or grain bowls.
❓ Frequently asked
Fresh or frozen broccoli?
Fresh chars best. Frozen releases a lot of water and turns soft, so if you must use it, thaw and pat very dry first.
How much is a cup of grated parmesan?
About 100 g finely grated per US cup, so ½ cup is roughly 50 g. The parmesan converter helps if you weigh.
Adapting your own recipe? Use the oven to air fryer converter for temp and time, or the recipe scaler to halve or double this.
