Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters Recipe – Ready in 20 Minutes!
You know those moments when you need something crispy, satisfying, and guilt-free? These air fryer broccoli fritters are exactly that! Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with cheesy goodness, they’ve become my go-to snack whenever I’m craving something crunchy.
My kids actually ask for vegetables now—can you believe it? If you loved my air fryer zucchini chips, wait until you try these flavor-packed fritters that come together in just 20 minutes!
What Are Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters?
Ever wonder why we call them “fritters” and not just “broccoli pancakes”? These little veggie gems are crispy, cheesy patties made from fresh broccoli, eggs, and seasonings, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer. No deep frying, no mess, just pure deliciousness!
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but honestly, these fritters win over everyone at my table. The air fryer gives them that irresistible crunch without all the oil. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll find any excuse to sneak more veggies into your meals!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters Recipe
They’re Ridiculously Easy to Make
Let’s be real—we’re all busy. These fritters come together with minimal effort and even less cleanup. Just mix, shape, and pop them in the air fryer. No standing over a hot stove, no oil splatters to scrub off your backsplash.
I love that I can prep these while helping with homework or catching up on emails. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting!
Save Money While Eating Healthy
Restaurant appetizers cost a fortune, and most are loaded with unnecessary calories. Making these at home costs just a few dollars. A head of broccoli, some eggs, cheese, and pantry staples—that’s it!
You get restaurant-quality taste without the restaurant prices. Plus, you control exactly what goes into them. No mystery ingredients, no artificial additives, just wholesome goodness your family will devour.
Customize with Your Favorite Flavors
The beauty of these fritters is their versatility. Add some crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist, throw in jalapeños for heat, or mix in some garlic powder for extra punch. I’ve made them with cheddar, parmesan, and even pepper jack when I’m feeling adventurous.
They’re perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light lunch with a fresh salad. If you enjoyed my air fryer cauliflower bites, you’ll absolutely love how these broccoli fritters bring that same addictive crunch with even more flavor.
Ready to make the crispiest, most delicious broccoli fritters you’ve ever tasted? Let’s dive in!
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters
Quick Overview
These air fryer broccoli fritters are incredibly simple to prepare and deliver amazing results every time. Here’s what makes them special:
- Perfectly crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior
- Light and healthy thanks to air frying instead of deep frying
- Cheesy, savory taste that appeals to both kids and adults
- Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12-15 fritters
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters
- 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head), finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
Pro tip: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Chop the florets into very small pieces—think rice-sized or slightly larger. You want them small enough to bind together but large enough to provide texture.
Here’s my trick: I pulse the broccoli in a food processor for about 5-6 short pulses. This gives you the perfect consistency without turning it to mush. If you don’t have a food processor, just use a sharp knife and take your time.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Place your chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but not mushy.
Alternatively, you can steam it on the stovetop for about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to soften it just enough so it binds well without being overcooked. Once done, drain any excess water and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Remove Excess Moisture
This step is crucial! Use a clean kitchen towel or several paper towels to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the broccoli. I cannot stress this enough—excess water will make your fritters soggy and prevent them from holding their shape.
I usually wrap the broccoli in a towel and twist it tightly, squeezing over the sink. You’ll be surprised how much water comes out!
Step 4: Mix the Fritter Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine your squeezed-dry broccoli, beaten eggs, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, flour, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold together when you press it. If it seems too wet, add another tablespoon of breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a tiny splash of milk or another egg.
Step 5: Shape the Fritters
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Place it on a plate or cutting board. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
I like to make mine about the size of a small burger slider—they’re easier to flip and cook more evenly. Don’t make them too thick or the center won’t cook properly.
Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and that beautiful golden crust we’re after.
Step 7: Spray and Arrange
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the fritters in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook them in batches.
Lightly spray the tops of the fritters with cooking spray as well. This helps them crisp up beautifully.
Step 8: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the fritters at 375°F for 5 minutes. Then, carefully flip them using a spatula and spray the other side lightly with oil. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides.
The exact time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. You want them beautifully golden, not burnt.
Step 9: Serve Immediately
Transfer the cooked fritters to a serving plate. They’re best enjoyed hot and fresh from the air fryer when they’re at their crispiest. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear!
What to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters With
These versatile fritters pair wonderfully with so many dishes! Here are my favorite serving suggestions:
Dipping Sauces:
- Creamy ranch dressing (my kids’ favorite!)
- Garlic aioli for a sophisticated touch
- Sour cream mixed with fresh herbs
- Spicy sriracha mayo if you like heat
- Classic marinara sauce
- Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and dill
As Part of a Meal:
- Alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner
- With a crisp garden salad for a light lunch
- Next to scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast
- As an appetizer before pasta night
- On a mezze platter with hummus, pita, and olives
Beverage Pairings:
- Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Light beer or craft lager
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced green tea
I often make a big batch and serve them as an after-school snack with ranch dressing. They also make fantastic appetizers when we have friends over!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Broccoli Fritters
Squeeze Out All the Moisture
I can’t emphasize this enough—dry broccoli is the secret to crispy fritters. After steaming, really take the time to squeeze out every last drop of water. Wet fritters will fall apart and won’t get that golden crust.
Don’t Skip the Preheat
Preheating your air fryer makes a huge difference. It’s like preheating your oven—it ensures even cooking from the start and helps create that crispy exterior we all love.
Avoid Overcrowding
Give your fritters space to breathe! If you pack them too tightly, they’ll steam instead of crisp up. Cook in batches if needed—it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Use Fresh Broccoli
While frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, fresh broccoli yields the best texture and flavor. Frozen broccoli contains even more moisture, which can make your fritters soggy no matter how much you squeeze it.
Spray Both Sides
Don’t forget to spray oil on both sides of the fritters. This ensures even browning and that satisfying crunch. I use an olive oil spray, but avocado oil works great too.
Keep Them Uniform
Try to make all your fritters the same size and thickness. This ensures they cook evenly at the same time. I use a 1/4 cup measuring cup as a scoop to keep them consistent.
Add Extra Binding Power
If your mixture seems loose, add an extra egg or a couple more tablespoons of flour. The mixture should hold together easily when you form a patty.
Experiment with Cheese
Different cheeses create different flavors and textures. Sharp cheddar adds tang, mozzarella makes them extra gooey, and Gruyere adds sophistication. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Season Generously
Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Broccoli can handle bold flavors. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for extra pizzazz.
Flip Gently
Use a thin spatula to flip the fritters carefully. They’re delicate before they’re fully cooked, so a gentle touch prevents them from breaking apart.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers:
If you somehow have leftovers (rare in my house!), store them properly to maintain quality. Let the fritters cool completely to room temperature first—this prevents condensation that leads to sogginess.
Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I don’t recommend leaving them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Freezing Instructions:
These fritters freeze beautifully! Arrange cooked and cooled fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 2 hours until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date so you remember when you made them.
You can also freeze the uncooked mixture! Portion it into patties, freeze on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Instructions:
The air fryer is your best friend for reheating! Preheat to 350°F and cook refrigerated fritters for 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Frozen fritters need 5-7 minutes at 350°F.
You can also reheat them in a regular oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible—it makes them soggy and sad. If you must use a microwave, place them on a paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, but know they won’t be as crispy.
For the best texture, always reheat in the air fryer. It brings back that fresh-cooked crispiness that makes these fritters so irresistible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Moisture Removal
The number one mistake people make is not removing enough water from the broccoli. Even if you think you’ve squeezed it enough, squeeze it again! Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy fritters.
Making Them Too Thick
Thick fritters won’t cook through properly. Keep them around 1/2 inch thick—any thicker and you’ll have a raw center with burnt edges. Trust me, I learned this the hard way during my first attempt!
Using Too Much Flour
While flour helps bind everything together, too much makes them dense and cakey. Start with the amount listed in the recipe and only add more if absolutely necessary.
Not Preheating the Air Fryer
I used to skip this step to save time, but my fritters would turn out pale and less crispy. Those 3 minutes of preheating make all the difference!
Opening the Air Fryer Too Often
I know it’s tempting to check on them, but resist the urge! Every time you open the basket, you release heat and extend cooking time. Check them once when it’s time to flip, then let them finish undisturbed.
Overcooking the Broccoli Initially
Steam the broccoli just until slightly tender—not mushy! Overcooked broccoli releases even more moisture and creates a mushy texture in the final fritters.
Forgetting to Spray Oil
The light coating of oil is essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior. Don’t skip it thinking you’ll save calories—you need that little bit of fat for proper browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but fresh works better. If using frozen, thaw it completely, then squeeze out ALL the moisture. I mean really squeeze it hard—frozen broccoli contains significantly more water than fresh. You might need to add extra breadcrumbs to compensate for the moisture.
Why are my broccoli fritters falling apart?
This usually happens for three reasons: too much moisture in the broccoli, not enough binding ingredients (eggs or flour), or flipping them too early before they’ve set. Make sure to squeeze your broccoli thoroughly and let the first side cook completely before flipping.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the regular flour for almond flour or coconut flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious. I’ve made them with almond flour many times and they turn out great.
What can I substitute for eggs?
For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg, let sit for 5 minutes). You can also try chia eggs or commercial egg replacer. The texture might be slightly less fluffy but they’ll still hold together.
Can I bake these in the oven instead?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air-fried, but they’re still tasty.
How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown on both sides and firm to the touch. If you insert a toothpick, it should come out clean. The internal temperature should reach about 160°F if you want to use a thermometer.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! I’ve added grated carrots, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, and even cauliflower. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from any added veggies. Keep the total veggie amount the same as the original recipe calls for.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is my go-to because it melts beautifully and adds great flavor. But mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack all work wonderfully. You can even mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Can kids help make these?
This is a great recipe for kids! They can help chop (with supervision), mix ingredients, and shape the fritters. My 8-year-old loves forming the patties. Just keep them away from the hot air fryer—that’s adult territory.
Why aren’t my fritters crispy?
Common culprits: too much moisture in the broccoli, not enough oil spray, overcrowding the air fryer basket, or the temperature is too low. Make sure you’re cooking at 375°F and giving each fritter plenty of space.
Can I double the recipe?
Sure! The mixture keeps well for a few hours in the fridge, so you can prep a double batch and cook them in multiple batches. Just remember that the cooking time stays the same—don’t overcrowd the air fryer.
What dipping sauce goes best with these?
Ranch is universally loved, but I’m partial to garlic aioli or a lemon-herb yogurt sauce. For something different, try sweet chili sauce or even a tangy honey mustard. My husband likes them with spicy mayo!
Nutrition Information (Per Fritter)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Fat | 3.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Calcium | 75mg |
| Iron | 0.5mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used
Final Thoughts
These air fryer broccoli fritters have honestly become one of my most-made recipes. They’re healthy, budget-friendly, and so ridiculously easy that I can whip them up even on the busiest weeknights.
What I love most is how they’ve transformed my family’s relationship with vegetables. My picky eater asks for “broccoli treats” now—that alone is worth the recipe!
Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or light meal, these fritters deliver on flavor and texture every single time. The golden, crispy exterior gives way to a tender, cheesy center that’s absolutely addictive.
Don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to make them your own. Once you master the basic recipe, the possibilities are endless!
Have you tried these air fryer broccoli fritters yet? I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Leave a comment below and let me know what dipping sauce you paired them with. And if you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family—everyone needs these fritters in their life!
