Keto Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli
Perfectly crispy-tender broccoli florets cooked in the air fryer with olive oil, garlic salt, and finished with Parmesan cheese. This quick side dish delivers restaurant-quality results in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or when you need a healthy vegetable that actually tastes amazing. The key is adding water to the air fryer bottom to prevent overcooking while still achieving that coveted crispy exterior.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Lawry's Garlic Salt
- 3 tablespoons Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons water
Instructions
- 1
Preheat air fryer
- 2
Place broccoli florets in large mixing bowl and cut large pieces to uniform size
- 3
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt, stirring to combine
- 4
Add water to bottom of air fryer
- 5
Place broccoli in air fryer basket in single layer
- 6
Cook until crisp yet tender
- 7
Top with Parmesan cheese
Tips
Cut large florets to uniform size for even cooking and better results.
Adding water to the air fryer bottom prevents overcooking while maintaining crispiness.
Keep broccoli in a single layer for optimal air circulation and browning.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked broccoli up to 3 days in airtight container
Season broccoli up to 2 hours ahead but cook just before serving
Serve immediately while hot and crispy for best texture
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the water to avoid burnt, overcooked broccoli
Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and pat completely dry first. Cooking time may need to be reduced by 1-2 minutes to prevent overcooking.
What if I don't have garlic salt?
Substitute with 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder plus extra pinch of regular salt for similar flavor profile.
How long will leftovers keep?
Cooked broccoli stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though it's best reheated in the air fryer to restore crispiness.