Easy Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Frozen broccoli cooked in an air fryer is the best way to cook this nutrient-packed vegetable and avoid turning it mushy.

Using your air fryer in combination with some added seasoning, you can achieve flavorsome and perfectly cooked broccoli in 9 minutes (380 F/190 c). A great option for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious side dish.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the best way to air-fry frozen broccoli and share some of my favorite ways to enjoy it as a perfect side dish. This easy recipe will have you enjoying crispy and flavorful broccoli in no time. There is a recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Why cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer?

Quick and Easy – Air fryers are great at cooking all frozen foods, broccoli is no exception. Simply add the frozen broccoli florets to your air fryer basket and air-fry for 9 minutes. You can cook them frozen, no need to defrost them.

Crispy – As the broccoli florets are frozen, they will not char like fresh broccoli florets. Your air fryer will produce crispy broccoli full of flavor.

Not soggy – By setting the air fryer timer you can avoid them becoming soggy or charred.

How long does it take to cook frozen broccoli in the air fryer?

It takes 9 minutes in an air fryer set at 380 F (190 c) to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer.

Ideas for taking frozen broccoli to the next level?

If you want to add some flavor to your frozen broccoli you could add some of these simple ingredients.

• Oil – Olive or avocado oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Parmesan cheese
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Chili flakes

What equipment do I need to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer?

To cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer, all you need is…

• Kitchen tongs – To turn and remove the broccoli once cooked.
• Large bowl – To mix any herbs and spices with the frozen broccoli.
• Air fryer liner (optional) – Parchment paper, aluminum foil, or silicone to reduce clean-up time.

How to cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer

To serve up broccoli with a crispy texture follow these simple steps.

Step 1 – Preheat the air fryer.

Preheat the air fryer to 380 F (190 c).

Step 2 – Prepare the broccoli

Mix the frozen broccoli in a mixing bowl with any extra ingredients you are using.

Step 3 – Prepare the basket

Once the air fryer has pre-heated, add an air fryer basket liner if using. Parchment paper or silicone are all great options. 

Step 4 – Add the broccoli

Pour the seasoned frozen broccoli into the air fryer basket. Ensure there is space between the florets.

Step 5 – Cook

Air fry the frozen broccoli for 9 minutes.

Step 6 – Shake

After 5 minutes shake the air fryer basket to move the broccoli around. Return to the air fryer to cook for a further 4 minutes.

Step 7 – Check

After the full 9 minutes check that the frozen broccoli is cooked to your preference.

Step 8 – Extra Time (optional)

If you would like the broccoli extra crispy or cooking larger broccoli florets, air fry it for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 9 – Serve

Once the broccoli is cooked to your preference. Use the tongs to remove them from the air fryer and enjoy.

Top tips

Preheat – For best results preheat the air fryer.

Single layer – Organize the broccoli florets in a single layer. This provides space for the hot air to cook all the broccoli.

Shake – To crisp the broccoli all over shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time.

Experiment – Play around with adding your favorite seasonings to the frozen broccoli.

Serving with

Air-fried frozen broccoli is a healthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving your crispy broccoli with grilled meat or fish.

For example, pairing your air-fried broccoli with juicy pork chops or a steak.

A great way to avoid serving a boring side of broccoli is to experiment with different seasonings. Try adding garlic powder, parmesan cheese, or chili flakes. You could even add a creamy cheese sauce.

Whatever your main dish. Air-fried frozen broccoli is a nutritious and delicious side that you should consider.

Common questions

How do I store leftover cooked broccoli?

If you have some leftover broccoli, wait for the broccoli to cool to room temperature. Put the broccoli in an airtight container. Store the broccoli in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat broccoli?

To reheat the broccoli, air fry the florets for 2 minutes at 340 F (170 c). Or microwave for 1 minute.

Related articles

Best Air Fryer Frozen Food Recipes – All the best frozen food recipes in one place to help you make the most of your air fryer.

Recipe card