Easy Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli Recipe
Are you on the hunt for an easy, delicious, and nutritious side dish? This Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli recipe is a lifesaver, especially when you're out of fresh veggies.
Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also packs a punch in terms of flavor and texture. In this post, I'll walk you through the steps to make this crispy, seasoned broccoli that's perfect for any meal. Let's dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
First off, let's talk about why this air fryer broccoli recipe has become one of my go-to dishes. One of the best parts about using frozen broccoli florets is that you can always keep a bag on hand. No need to worry about running out of fresh produce or having to make an extra trip to the grocery store. Plus, the result is a beautifully crispy and flavorful broccoli that can complement a variety of main dishes.
My husband and I love pairing this with rice and salmon. In fact, it's our staple meal at least once a week because it's just so easy and quick to prepare. And if you're wondering, this dish is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly. So, it's suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli
Do Not Defrost
One key tip for achieving that perfect crispy texture is to air fry the broccoli straight from the freezer. Thawing it first can result in soggy vegetables, which no one wants.
Spice it Up
Don't be afraid to add extra seasoning to your broccoli. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper are great ways to enhance the flavor. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes once the broccoli is done cooking.
Check Early
Each air fryer model can vary slightly in terms of cooking time. I recommend checking your broccoli after about 8 minutes to ensure it isn’t burning. This can help you adjust the cook time if needed.
Finish with Lemon Juice
A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and adds a lovely tang that complements the crispy broccoli.
Enjoy Immediately
For the best results, enjoy your air-fried broccoli right away. The crispy texture is best when hot and fresh from the air fryer.
Pair This Recipe With…
If you’re looking for a perfect main dish to go with your air fryer frozen broccoli, I highly recommend checking out my air fryer salmon cookbook. It features 20 salmon recipes that take less than 20 minutes to make. You can find it HERE!
Other Flavors to Try
This air fryer broccoli recipe is versatile and can be adapted with various flavors to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
Parmesan Cheese: Add ⅓ cup of parmesan cheese before cooking for a beautiful, golden brown crust.
Cheddar Cheese: Add ⅓ to ½ cup of cheddar cheese halfway through cooking for a cheesy broccoli dish that's perfect as a side for pasta.
Soy Sauce: Finish with a drizzle of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian twist.
Lemon or Lime Juice: Besides lemon juice, try lime juice for a different citrusy kick.
Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle on some red pepper flakes when the broccoli comes out of the air fryer for an extra spicy touch.
Product Recommendations
To achieve the best results, using a good air fryer is crucial. Here’s one I recommend: The Ninja Air Fryer XL.
Ingredients and Preparation
Prep time: 3 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes
Ingredients:
1 lb frozen broccoli florets
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Avocado oil spray or 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
Juice of ⅓ lemon
Directions:
Preheat the air fryer to 390F for 4 minutes.
Place your frozen broccoli (not thawed) in a big bowl.
Add oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shake to coat all broccoli florets.
Place in the air fryer at 390F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through the cooking process.
FAQ
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Yes, you can use fresh broccoli florets, but keep in mind that the cooking time might be slightly shorter. The nice thing about using frozen broccoli is that it’s already cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces, saving you prep time.
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The air fryer is a great way to cook a variety of vegetables. Besides broccoli, try air frying green beans, carrots, or even frozen veggie mixes. The high temperature and hot air circulation ensure they come out crispy and delicious.
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If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
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Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for air frying at high temperatures. It also has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower your seasonings. Olive oil or olive oil spray works well too.
This air fryer frozen broccoli recipe is one of my favorite easy air fryer recipes. It’s a nutritious side dish that takes just a matter of minutes to prepare and cook. The cooking process is straightforward, and the results are consistently excellent. Whether you're serving it alongside a main dish or enjoying it as a snack, this crispy broccoli is sure to become one of your favorite recipes.
So next time you’re in need of an easy side dish, give this air fryer broccoli recipe a try. It’s a great way to enjoy your frozen vegetables with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 lb frozen broccoli florets
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Avocado oil spray or 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- Juice of ⅓ lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 4 minutes.
- Place your frozen broccoli (not thawed) in a big bowl.
- Add oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. Shake the air fryer to coat all broccoli florets.
- Place in the air fryer at 390°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Hey, I’m Jazz
I’m a nutritional therapist practitioner and spent 3 years as a personal chef to NBA athletes. Follow along for easy, attainable and healthy recipes in under 30 minutes!
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