Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites In Air Fryer Recipe

I whipped up a batch of garlic parmesan broccoli bites using fresh 1 lb broccoli florets tossed in olive oil and minced garlic then coated with grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. They are my go-to for easy air fried snacks, proving that healthy, vibrant ingredients can create a delightful, nutritious bite.

I’ve been experimenting with quick, healthy snacks and this Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites in Air Fryer recipe quickly became one of my favorites. I start off with 1 lb broccoli florets, tossing them lightly in 1-2 tbsp olive oil along with 2 garlic cloves, minced for that extra punch of flavor.

Then, I coat them generously in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and about 1/2 cup breadcrumbs. This easy air fried snack not only comes together fast in about 10 minutes but it also fits right into my healthy eating plans when I’m craving an appetizer or a dinner side.

The crunch, the subtle garlic flavor and the savory Parmesan blend so nicely that every bite feels satisfying. I know it might sound simple but sometimes the simplest recipes turn into our most reliable go-to options for quick, delicious meals.

Enjoy trying this out for a fun twist on your dinner appetizers!

Why I Like this Recipe

I’ve gotta say, I really love this Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites recipe because it’s so simple and tasty. Looking for a healthy snack or appetizer that only takes about 10 minutes to whip up? Then you need to try these bites out. First you toss a pound of broccoli florets in some olive oil along with minced garlic, salt and pepper. Then you mix together grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs and coat the broccoli until it’s evenly covered. Next you spread it out in your air fryer basket so that every piece gets nice and crispy. After around ten minutes, just give it a shake halfway through the cooking time, check to see if it’s tender and crunchy, and you’re done.

I love this recipe because:
1. It comes together super quickly so I can make a snack in no time.
2. I really enjoy the crispy texture from the air fryer.
3. The mix of garlic, Parmesan and breadcrumbs gives it an amazing flavor.
4. Plus, it’s a healthy alternative to more greasy snacks.

Ingredients

• Broccoli: A great source of fibre, vitamins and antioxidants that naturally boost health.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fats add flavor and help crisp up the broccoli in air fryer.
• Garlic: Infuses a strong, pungent, savory kick and supports immune health naturally.
• Parmesan: Adds rich, salty flavor along with protein, perfect for delicious creamy tastes.
• Breadcrumbs: Offers a crunchy texture, helps bind flavors and gives a crispy finish.
• Salt: Enhances taste and balances all flavors without overpowering the overall dish.
• Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and a mild spice to elevate overall flavor profile.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb broccoli florets
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best if you have it)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make this

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F so it’s ready to go.

2. In a bowl, toss the 1 lb of broccoli florets with 1-2 tbsp olive oil, the minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

3. In another bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best if you have it).

4. Coat the broccoli evenly with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix by gently stirring them together.

5. Spread the broccoli out in a single layer in the air fryer basket so they crisp up nice and even.

6. Air fry the broccoli for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to help them cook evenly.

7. Check to see if the broccoli is tender and the coating is nice and crispy before taking them out.

8. If needed, add a little extra salt or pepper after cooking to adjust the seasoning.

9. Let the bites cool for a minute before serving.

10. Enjoy your healthy snack or appetizer, they’re perfect for a quick bite!

Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer with its basket
2. A large mixing bowl (for tossing the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper)
3. A small mixing bowl (to combine Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs)
4. Measuring cups and spoons (for the olive oil, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings)
5. A garlic mincer or a knife with a cutting board (to mince the garlic)
6. A spatula or large spoon (for stirring the broccoli and coating it evenly)
7. A serving plate (to enjoy your snack)

FAQ

Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites In Air Fryer Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Broccoli florets: You could try cauliflower florets if you want a slightly different crunch.
• Olive oil: Avocado oil works well too if you dont have or prefer olive oil.
• Garlic: Use garlic powder instead of fresh minced garlic, but remember to adjust the amount since it’s stronger.
• Parmesan cheese: Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you’re looking for a sharper taste, or even nutritional yeast if you need a dairy free option.
• Breadcrumbs: Crushed Ritz crackers or almond flour can do in a pinch when you dont have panko.

Pro Tips

Try tossing your broccoli in just enough oil and seasonings so all the pieces get coated evenly; this makes the crunchy coating stick better while you air fry it.

If you got panko breadcrumbs, use them instead of regular ones because they crisp up awesome, and you can even lighty toast them in a pan with a little garlic and salt first for extra flavor boost.

Don’t stress about perfect flipping when you shake the basket halfway through the cook time; even if some pieces don’t get as evenly browned, the mix of textures is cool and adds to the overall crunch factor.

After it’s done, taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed since the seasoning balance can change a bit during cooking, so a little extra sprinkle right before serving can really bring it all together.