Air Fryer Mushrooms and Broccoli is a simple, flavorful, and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Using the air fryer to cook these vegetables results in a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender interiors, with minimal oil required. This recipe highlights the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the natural sweetness of broccoli, making it a great addition to your dinner plate, whether you’re serving it alongside chicken, steak, or pasta.
This dish is low-carb, keto-friendly, and a great way to get more vegetables into your diet without the hassle of stovetop or oven roasting.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or portobello work great)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or cooking spray for a lighter option)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth or paper towel (avoid washing them directly under water, as they can absorb moisture).
- Cut the broccoli into florets, making sure they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Season the Mushrooms and Broccoli:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mushrooms and broccoli florets.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated in the seasoning and oil.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures the vegetables cook evenly once added.
- Air Fry the Vegetables:
- Place the seasoned mushrooms and broccoli in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer for best results, though you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is tender and crispy around the edges and the mushrooms are golden and juicy. The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the broccoli florets and mushrooms, so keep an eye on them as they cook.
- Serve:
- Once the vegetables are done, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish with your favorite protein or as part of a larger meal.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Mushrooms and Broccoli:
Quick and Easy: This side dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you need a fast, healthy addition to your meal. The air fryer does most of the work, leaving you with minimal cleanup.
Crispy and Flavorful: The air fryer gives the broccoli a crisp, roasted exterior while keeping the interior tender. The mushrooms become golden and juicy, with the seasoning soaking into every bite, creating a savory, umami-rich flavor.
Healthy and Low-Carb: Both broccoli and mushrooms are low in carbs and high in fiber, making this dish a great choice for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or vegetarian diet. It’s also loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that promote overall health.
Customizable: You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or zucchini, or by experimenting with different spices and seasonings. For example, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking or tossing with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even more.
Minimal Cleanup: Since everything cooks in the air fryer basket, cleanup is quick and easy. You can also line the basket with parchment paper for even less mess if you prefer.
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 80-100 kcal
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Net Carbs: 4-6g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g (if using olive oil)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (without cheese)
- Sodium: 250-300mg (depending on seasoning and salt)
- Calcium: 25-35mg
- Iron: 1-2mg
- WW Points: 1-2 points (depending on your seasoning and oil choices)
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, make sure the mushrooms and broccoli are spread out in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you overcrowd them, they may not crisp up as well and may steam instead of roasting.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences. You could add Italian seasoning, lemon zest, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Check the Veggies: Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the vegetables and the type of air fryer you have. Check the mushrooms and broccoli around the 8-minute mark, and give them a shake to ensure they cook evenly.
- Add Cheese: For an extra indulgence, sprinkle the roasted veggies with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta after cooking. It adds a salty, savory finish that enhances the flavor of the mushrooms and broccoli.
Air Fryer Mushrooms and Broccoli is a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy your veggies. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re pairing it with chicken, steak, or even as a vegetarian main dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
