Easy Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes, this air fryer broccoli casserole is your answer. I stumbled upon this method last winter when my oven was packed with a holiday roast, and honestly, I haven’t looked back since.

The air fryer creates the most incredible golden, crispy top while keeping everything beneath wonderfully tender. It’s simpler than my popular air fryer chicken thighs, feeds a crowd, and uses ingredients you probably already have. Trust me, once you make broccoli casserole this way, you’ll wonder why you ever heated up your entire oven.

What is Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole?

Ever wonder why comfort food recipes have the most straightforward names? Air fryer broccoli casserole is exactly what it sounds like: tender broccoli florets swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer.

My grandmother used to say the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and this dish proves it every single time. It’s that perfect combination of vegetables meeting indulgence, making everyone at the table happy. Ready to give it a try and see why this simple name packs such a flavorful punch?

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole

The Ultimate Creamy Comfort

The first time I made this air fryer broccoli casserole, my picky-eater nephew asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was special. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and sharp cheddar creates this velvety sauce that coats every broccoli floret. Unlike traditional casseroles that can turn out soggy, the air fryer works its magic to give you a crispy, golden top with a tender, creamy interior.

Budget-Friendly Family Favorite

Making this at home costs a fraction of what you’d spend on restaurant sides or pre-made casseroles from the store. Fresh broccoli is affordable year-round, and you’re likely stocking most of these ingredients already. I love that I can feed six people for under $10, and it tastes like I spent way more effort on it.

Flavor Packed Toppings

The buttery breadcrumb topping with a hint of garlic powder creates texture that makes every bite interesting. I sometimes add crushed Ritz crackers or panko for extra crunch. The cheese gets beautifully melted and slightly browned on top, adding a savory depth that balances the mild broccoli perfectly. If you enjoyed my air fryer cauliflower bites, you’ll absolutely love this upgraded version that serves as a complete side dish.

Stop settling for boring steamed vegetables. Make this air fryer broccoli casserole tonight and watch it disappear from plates faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole

Quick Overview

This air fryer broccoli casserole comes together in three simple stages: prep, mix, and cook. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required. You’ll get rich, creamy results with a satisfyingly crispy top that makes this casserole absolutely irresistible.

Time Breakdown:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 6 people

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole

For the Casserole:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat works best)
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced finely
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

For the Topping:

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Broccoli

Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, keeping them relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. I aim for pieces about 1-2 inches wide. Pat them completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial because excess moisture can make your casserole watery. If your broccoli has thick stems, peel the tough outer layer and chop them into small pieces. Don’t waste those stems; they’re delicious when cooked properly.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your broccoli florets and blanch for exactly 2 minutes. You want them bright green and slightly tender, but still with a bit of crunch. Immediately drain and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures your broccoli won’t turn mushy in the air fryer. Drain again and pat very dry.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or sturdy whisk to beat until completely smooth and creamy with no lumps. Add in the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping. The mixture should be thick, rich, and coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Combine Broccoli with Cheese Sauce

Add your blanched and dried broccoli florets to the creamy cheese mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold everything together until every piece of broccoli is well coated with the sauce. Be gentle here—you don’t want to break up the florets too much. The mixture should look abundant and creamy.

Step 5: Prepare Your Air Fryer Pan

Lightly grease a 7-inch round cake pan or an air fryer-safe baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Make sure your pan fits comfortably in your air fryer basket with at least an inch of space around it for air circulation. Transfer the broccoli mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Press down gently to create an even surface.

Step 6: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the broccoli casserole first, then evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture on top. This double topping creates amazing texture and flavor.

Step 7: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes. Carefully place the pan into the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, checking at the 12-minute mark. You’re looking for a golden brown, crispy top and bubbling edges. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil for the last few minutes.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once done, carefully remove the pan from the air fryer using oven mitts—it will be very hot. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired.

What to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole With

This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with so many main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a complete dinner. It’s also fantastic meatloaf for that classic comfort food combination.

For a lighter meal, pair it with a crisp garden salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness perfectly. I also love serving this with dinner rolls or garlic bread for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.

During holiday meals, this casserole fits right in next to mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. It’s become a Thanksgiving staple in my house because it doesn’t compete for oven space.

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole

Don’t Skip the Blanching

I know it’s tempting to skip this step, but blanching your broccoli for just 2 minutes makes a huge difference. Raw broccoli won’t cook through properly in the air fryer’s short cooking time, and you’ll end up with crunchy, undercooked florets. The blanching gives you tender broccoli with just the right texture.

Room Temperature Cream Cheese is Essential

Cold cream cheese will create lumps in your sauce that are nearly impossible to smooth out. Take your cream cheese out of the fridge 30-45 minutes before you start cooking. If you forget, cut it into small cubes and microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften quickly.

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. Spend the extra two minutes shredding a block of sharp cheddar yourself. The difference in creaminess and flavor is absolutely worth it. Plus, freshly shredded cheese melts into beautiful strings.

Check Your Air Fryer Size

Air fryers vary significantly in size and heating power. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to make this recipe in two batches using smaller pans. Alternatively, some air fryers have a lower wattage and may need an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

Customize the Spice Level

The base recipe is mild and family-friendly, but feel free to add more heat. Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper, some diced jalapeños mixed into the sauce, or top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.

Make It Extra Crispy

If you love an extra-crunchy topping, add crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions to your breadcrumb mixture. You can also brush the top with a little extra melted butter before the final few minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Can’t find sour cream? Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute. No panko? Regular breadcrumbs work fine, though they won’t be quite as crispy. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage

Let your air fryer broccoli casserole cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better.

Freezing Instructions

This casserole freezes surprisingly well. I recommend freezing it before adding the breadcrumb topping for best results. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the breadcrumb topping, and air fry as directed. You may need to add 3-5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is hands-down the best way to reheat this casserole while maintaining that crispy top. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F. Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish and heat for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. If the top starts getting too dark, cover loosely with foil.

Microwave Reheating

For quick individual portions, the microwave works in a pinch. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes at 50% power. The top won’t be crispy, but it’ll be hot and delicious. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating if you want to refresh the dish.

Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Overcrowding the Pan

Don’t try to stuff too much casserole into a small pan. Overfilling prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. The casserole should fill the pan no more than three-quarters full. If you have extra, make a second smaller batch rather than cramming it all in.

Mistake #2: Not Drying the Broccoli

Wet broccoli equals watery casserole. After blanching, take the time to thoroughly dry each floret. I sometimes even let them air dry on a kitchen towel for 10 minutes. That extra moisture will dilute your creamy sauce and prevent proper browning.

Mistake #3: Using Cold Ingredients

Mixing cold cream cheese, cold sour cream, and cold broccoli results in a chunky, separated sauce. All your dairy ingredients should be at room temperature for a smooth, velvety mixture. This also helps everything blend together seamlessly.

Mistake #4: Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating ensures your casserole starts cooking immediately and develops that crispy top. Without preheating, the bottom might cook faster than the top, giving you an unevenly cooked dish. Those 3 minutes of preheating time make a real difference.

Mistake #5: Forgetting to Check for Doneness

Every air fryer cooks slightly differently. Don’t just set the timer and walk away. Check your casserole at the 12-minute mark to see how it’s progressing. You want bubbling edges and a golden top—if it’s browning too fast, adjust accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli for this air fryer broccoli casserole?

Yes, but with modifications. Thaw the frozen broccoli completely and squeeze out all excess moisture using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Frozen broccoli tends to be softer, so skip the blanching step entirely. The texture won’t be quite as good as fresh, but it’ll still be delicious and convenient.

How do I prevent my air fryer broccoli casserole from becoming watery?

The key is removing excess moisture at every step. Thoroughly dry your broccoli after blanching, make sure your cream cheese mixture is thick (not runny), and don’t add extra liquid. If your casserole seems watery before cooking, you can stir in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.

Can I make this air fryer broccoli casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the entire casserole up to the point of cooking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then add the breadcrumb topping and air fry as directed. You may need to add 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time since it’s starting cold.

What size pan should I use for air fryer broccoli casserole?

A 7-inch round cake pan or an 8×8-inch square pan works perfectly for most standard air fryers. The pan should fit in your air fryer basket with at least 1 inch of clearance on all sides for proper air circulation. Always measure your air fryer basket before purchasing pans.

Is air fryer broccoli casserole healthy?

While it’s definitely indulgent with cheese and cream, it’s still loaded with nutrient-rich broccoli. To make it lighter, use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream, reduce the cheese by half, or replace some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You’ll still get great flavor with fewer calories.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Cauliflower, diced bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms all work wonderfully. Just make sure any additions are pre-cooked and dried properly. Keep the total vegetable amount around 4 cups so the sauce-to-veggie ratio stays balanced.

Why is my topping not getting crispy?

This usually happens when the breadcrumbs don’t have enough butter or the air fryer temperature is too low. Make sure your breadcrumbs are well coated with melted butter and consider increasing the temperature to 360°F for the last 3 minutes of cooking. Also, ensure your pan isn’t too full, which can trap steam.

Can I double this air fryer broccoli casserole recipe?

You can double the ingredients, but you’ll need to cook in batches since most air fryers can’t accommodate a doubled recipe in one go. Alternatively, make the full double batch and cook in two separate pans, which actually works great if you’re meal prepping for the week.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	320
Total Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	13g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	480mg
Total Carbohydrates	12g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	3g
Protein	11g
Vitamin C	45% DV
Calcium	25% DV
Iron	6% DV

Nutrition information is approximate and based on 6 servings

Final Thoughts

This air fryer broccoli casserole has honestly revolutionized my weeknight dinner routine. What used to take 45 minutes in a conventional oven now takes less than 30 minutes total, and the results are somehow even better. The crispy, golden top combined with that creamy, cheesy interior makes this a dish that even vegetable skeptics can’t resist.

I love that it’s fancy enough for holiday gatherings but simple enough for a Tuesday night. The make-ahead option means I can prep this during weekend meal prep and just pop it in the air fryer when I need it. Plus, with all the customization options, switching up cheeses, or throwing in different vegetables—it never gets boring.

The best part? Watching my kids actually get excited about eating their vegetables. That’s a parenting win in my book. Give this air fryer broccoli casserole a try, and I bet it becomes a regular rotation meal in your house too. Happy cooking!