Crispy and Cheesy Air Fryer Broccoli Gratin is a quick and easy recipe, perfect when you want to serve a healthy yet delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Born from one of those improvised dinners: a cheap green cabbage, some mozzarella crumbled by eye, and the air fryer that does everything else.
Crispy on the outside, cheesy inside with an irresistible golden gratin, these broccoli appeal even to those who usually don’t like vegetables. The quick boiling keeps the cabbage firm and flavorful, while the final cooking gives a crispy surface without the need for frying.
From a nutritional standpoint, broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and minerals, ideal for light yet complete daily cooking. The air fryer allows the use of very little fat, making this recipe suitable for those looking for balanced dishes without sacrificing taste.
An economical, clever, and versatile preparation, perfect as a side but also great as a light main dish. And if you don’t have an air fryer, you can easily cook them in a traditional oven.
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 4
- Cooking methods: Stovetop, Oven, Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 24.7 oz cabbage
- salt
- pepper
- 1 drizzle extra virgin olive oil
- 4.4 oz mozzarella
- 0.9 oz breadcrumbs
- 1 oz grated Parmesan cheese
Tools
- 1 Air Fryer Baking Pan
- 1 Air Fryer
Steps
Cut the cabbage into pieces and boil it in lightly salted water for 5 minutes.
The broccoli should soften slightly but remain crunchy. Drain well.
Transfer the broccoli to a baking dish suitable for the air fryer.
Salt, pepper, and crumble the mozzarella directly on top, distributing it irregularly.
Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cover with grated Parmesan.
If you like, you can add a very light drizzle of oil.
Cook in air fryer at 356°F for about 20 minutes, until the surface is well browned and gratinated.
Times may vary slightly: adjust by sight. 🔥 Traditional Oven Variation
If you prefer the oven:
• preheat to 392°F
• bake the dish for about 20 minutes, until golden
📝 Final Tip from “Aunt Debby”
They are delicious freshly made, but also the day after when reheated: the crust becomes crispy again, and the center remains cheesy.
Perfect as a side dish, but also as a quick fridge-saving dinner 🥦🧀
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I prepare the broccoli gratin in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the broccoli with mozzarella, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan in advance and store them in the fridge for a few hours. When ready to serve, cook them directly in the air fryer or oven until well gratinated
