Air Fryer Broccoli (Ninja Foodi)

This air fryer broccoli has tender centers, browned edges, and plenty of savory flavor from herbs, butter, and Parmesan. I love making broccoli this way when I want that roasted flavor without turning on the oven.

I make this air fryer roasted broccoli in my Ninja Foodi, but you can use your favorite air fryer. It’s an easy vegetable side for chicken, steak, salmon, or shrimp. If you’re starting with frozen florets, use my Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli recipe instead since frozen broccoli cooks differently.

Why Make Air Fryer Roasted Broccoli

• Roasted flavor without the oven: The broccoli gets browned around the edges while staying tender inside.
• Simple ingredients: Fresh broccoli only needs oil and seasoning before air frying, then butter and Parmesan to finish.
• Easy to customize: Keep my herb-Parmesan version or change the seasoning to match the rest of your meal.
• Works with almost any dinner: It’s an easy way to add a vegetable side without using another pan or turning on the oven.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need. Check the recipe card below for the exact amounts.

• Broccoli florets: I use fresh broccoli. Pre-cut florets save time, or you can cut a head of broccoli into similarly sized pieces.
• Avocado oil: Helps the broccoli brown in the air fryer. Olive oil also works.
• 24 Herb Sprinkle Seasoning: I like this salt-free blend because it already includes herbs, garlic, onion, and pepper. Italian seasoning is an easy substitute.
• Sea salt: Add this to taste.
• Butter: I toss the hot broccoli with melted butter after air frying.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory finish and melts slightly onto the warm broccoli.
• Lemon: Optional, but a squeeze at the end adds a fresh, bright flavor.

How to Cook Broccoli in an Air Fryer

Season the broccoli

Toss the broccoli florets with avocado oil, herb seasoning, and salt until everything is evenly coated.

Add it to the air fryer

Spread the broccoli in an even layer in the air fryer basket or cooking pot. Giving the florets some room helps more of the edges brown.

Air fry until roasted

Cook until the stems are tender and the edges are browned, turning or tossing the broccoli partway through so it cooks more evenly.

Finish with butter and Parmesan

Add the hot broccoli back to the bowl and toss it with melted butter and freshly grated Parmesan. Finish with a squeeze of lemon if you’d like.

How Long to Cook Broccoli in the Air Fryer

I usually air fry my broccoli for about 12 to 14 minutes total because I like the edges well browned.

The exact time depends on the size of the florets, how much broccoli is in the basket, and how roasted you like it. Smaller florets can finish sooner, while larger pieces can take a little longer.

If you prefer softer broccoli with less browning, take it out earlier. For darker roasted edges, give it a few more minutes.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Broccoli

• Keep the florets close in size: This helps them cook at the same rate.
• Give the broccoli some room: An even layer helps it roast instead of steam.
• Use the broccoli as your guide: Air fryers cook a little differently, so look for tender stems and browned edges instead of relying only on the clock.
• Add the butter and Parmesan at the end: I like letting the broccoli brown first, then adding the finishing ingredients while it’s still hot.

Fresh or Frozen Broccoli

I make this recipe with fresh broccoli. If you have frozen broccoli, use my Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli recipe instead. Frozen florets have more moisture and cook differently, so that recipe will give you better results.

Can I Make Broccoli in a Ninja Foodi?

Yes. I make this Ninja Foodi broccoli using the air fryer function. You can use another air fryer too. Just keep an eye on the broccoli toward the end since cooking times can vary a little from one air fryer to another.

Seasoning Variations

The herb and Parmesan version is my usual way to make this, but broccoli is easy to change up.

• Keep it simple with salt and pepper.
• Use my Cajun Seasoning for a smoky, slightly spicy version.
• Try Ranch Seasoning for a savory herb flavor.
• Use my Old Bay Seasoning for a different savory-spiced finish.
• Skip the Parmesan if you prefer the broccoli without cheese.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Broccoli

This is one of those sides that works with almost anything. For an easy dinner, serve it with Air Fryer Salmon, Pan Seared Steak, or Air Fryer Shrimp. It also works well alongside Air Fryer Buffalo Wings when you want to add a simple vegetable to the meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

I use the microwave when I just want to warm it quickly. If you want to bring back more of the roasted texture, reheat the broccoli in the air fryer for a few minutes instead.

More Air Fryer Broccoli Recipes

• Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli
• Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli
• Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp & Broccoli