Okay, let me tell you about my latest obsession – this air fryer broccoli gratin that’s so cheesy and delicious, it’ll have you licking the dish clean. I swear, it’s become a weekly staple in our house because it’s just that easy and satisfying. Who knew broccoli could be this indulgent? The air fryer works its magic, melting the cheddar and Parmesan into gooey perfection while crisping up the edges just enough to give you that irresistible texture. My kids actually cheer when they see me pulling out the broccoli – that’s how good it is. And the best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes, which means more time for eating and less time fussing in the kitchen. Trust me, this is the side dish (or let’s be honest, sometimes main dish) you didn’t know you needed.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
Let me count the ways this dish will win you over:
- It’s faster than ordering takeout (seriously, 17 minutes start to finish!)
- The cheese gets all melty and golden under that hot air fryer blast
- You only need one bowl and one dish – cleanup is a breeze
Easy and Quick
I’m talking five minutes of prep – just toss everything together while your air fryer heats up. No fancy techniques, no babysitting the oven. It’s the kind of recipe you can make half-asleep after a long day (not that I’ve done that… okay, maybe once or twice).
Perfectly Cheesy and Crispy
That first bite gets you the crispy cheese crust giving way to tender broccoli underneath. The Parmesan adds this nutty depth that makes you forget you’re eating vegetables. And when you pull it out all bubbly and golden? Pure magic.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy broccoli dream come true:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (packed tight!)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (room temp blends better)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (the good stuff)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (trust me, don’t skip)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (secret flavor booster)
- Salt and pepper to taste (I’m generous with both)
See? Nothing fancy – just good ingredients that’ll make your broccoli shine!
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
Okay, let me walk you through how I make this cheesy broccoli gratin – it’s so simple you’ll be amazed at how something so easy tastes so good. Just follow these steps and you’ll have golden, bubbly perfection in no time!
Preheat and Prepare
First things first – get that air fryer cranking! I set mine to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up while I prep. In a big bowl, I toss the broccoli florets with the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy with the tossing – you want every little floret coated in that creamy, flavorful mixture. This is where the magic starts!
Layer and Air Fry
Now grab an air fryer-safe dish (I use a small ceramic one that fits perfectly) and transfer your broccoli mix into it. Sprinkle that glorious cheddar cheese first, then the Parmesan on top – the layer of Parmesan creates that beautiful golden crust we all love. Pop it in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbling with those perfect little browned spots. The broccoli should be tender but still have a bit of bite – nobody likes mushy broccoli!
Let it cool for a minute (if you can resist diving in immediately) because that cheese is molten lava hot right out of the fryer. Then grab a fork and enjoy the cheesy, crispy, veggie-packed goodness!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
Here are my hard-earned secrets for broccoli gratin perfection:
- Fresh is best: That bag of pre-cut broccoli? Not today. Fresh florets give you that perfect texture – crisp-tender, not mushy.
- Crispy top trick: If you want extra crunch, pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after air frying. Watch it like a hawk though – it goes from golden to burnt fast!
- Season boldly: Don’t be shy with the garlic and onion powders. They make the flavors pop.
- Cheese matters: Splurge on good aged cheddar and real Parmigiano-Reggiano if you can. The flavor difference is worth it.
Follow these tips and you’ll be making restaurant-quality broccoli gratin in your pajamas!
Ingredient Substitutions for Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
Ran out of something? No worries! Here are my favorite swaps that still taste amazing:
- Cream substitute: Half-and-half works in a pinch, or almond milk for a lighter version (just add 1 tsp cornstarch to thicken it).
- Cheese alternatives: Vegan cheddar melts surprisingly well, and nutritional yeast gives that cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Broccoli options: Cauliflower florets make a great stand-in if you’re out of broccoli – just cook 2 minutes longer.
The texture changes slightly with substitutions, but hey – dinner gets made and it’s still delicious!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
This cheesy broccoli gratin shines as a side to grilled chicken or roasted salmon, but let’s be real – I’ve been known to eat it straight from the dish with a spoon as a midnight snack. It’s also fantastic piled onto toast for the ultimate veggie melt!
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, skip the microwave – it’ll turn soggy. Instead, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to bring back that crispy-cheesy magic. Works like a charm every time!
Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy) Nutritional Information
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on what you’re getting per serving (and yes, I totally count this as a balanced meal!). Nutrition varies by ingredients, but estimate about 220 calories, 16g fat, and 10g protein per generous helping. Not bad for something this cheesy and satisfying!
FAQs About Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin (Cheesy)
I get asked these questions all the time – here’s everything you need to know to make this recipe work for you!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely first and pat it super dry with paper towels. Frozen broccoli holds more water, so if you skip this step, you’ll end up with a soggy mess instead of that perfect cheesy crispiness we love.
How Do I Make It Vegan?
Easy peasy! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use your favorite vegan cheeses. The Violife cheddar shreds melt beautifully, and nutritional yeast adds that cheesy flavor. Just watch the cooking time – vegan cheeses sometimes need an extra minute or two.
Can I Double This Recipe?
You bet! Just use a bigger dish and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Check at 12 minutes – if the cheese isn’t bubbly and golden yet, give it another 2-3 minutes. The air fryer’s magic works just as well for bigger batches!
Print
17-Minute Cheesy Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin Perfection
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy cheesy broccoli gratin made in the air fryer. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix broccoli, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best results.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes after air frying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: air fryer, broccoli gratin, cheesy, easy, quick, vegetarian