Make broccoli that will make your mouth water! This quick and easy recipe turns fresh broccoli into a tender-crisp, cheesy delight in just 10 minutes. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to serve to guests.
Make it a meal and serve this alongside an air fryer pork chop or crispy air fryer chicken tenders.
Why Our Recipe
- Tender-crisp broccoli with perfectly melted cheddar cheese in just 10 minutes.
- A simple, kid-approved way to make broccoli a little more exciting. And adults like it too!
The air fryer works its magic to lightly crisp the edges while keeping the broccoli perfectly tender. Then, we add a gooey layer of cheddar cheese on top to make it a dish even picky eaters will devour. It’s a side dish win!
Ingredient Notes
- Broccoli: Choose heads with tightly packed, vibrant green florets. Cut into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic always has the best flavor. You can use jarred, but it tends to be a little more bitter.
- Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil or another neutral-flavored cooking oil.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded melts better, but pre-shredded is always an option.
Other Cheese Options
While sharp cheddar is a classic choice to go with broccoli, you can easily switch it up with other cheeses that melt well. Try shredded mozzarella, gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. Just substitute the same amount of cheese listed in the recipe for an equally delicious cheesy result!
How to Cut Broccoli
Cutting broccoli into florets is straightforward, but it sure doesn’t feel that way sometimes when you are staring at it. Rinse the broccoli under cold water to remove dirt or debris. Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Remove the Stem: Place the broccoli on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to trim off the thick stem just below the base of the florets. Save the stem for soups or stir-fries—it’s just as tasty!
Separate Florets: Hold the broccoli upside down, stem side up. Cut along the natural branches to separate the florets.
Even Sizes: Cut larger florets into smaller pieces so they’re roughly the same size. Aim for bite-sized pieces.
Adapting for Different Styles of Air Fryers
Basket Air Fryers: Cook in a single layer at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through and add cheese in the last minute.
Toaster-Oven Style Air Fryers: Arrange broccoli on the tray with space between pieces. Rotate the tray halfway through cooking. Check for doneness at 10 minutes, as cooking may take slightly longer.
Ovens with Air Fryer Settings: Use a wire rack or air fryer tray. Check for doneness at 10 minutes, as cooking may take slightly longer.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the broccoli in the air fryer at 350°F. Cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again.
