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Broccoli and cauliflower take about 10 to 15 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 375°F to 400°F, depending on how small you cut the florets and whether you’re cooking them separately or together.
Broccoli usually cooks a little faster than cauliflower, so timing matters if you want both to come out tender and crispy at the same time.
If you’ve been wondering how long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer without turning them into mush, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll break down exact cooking times for broccoli and cauliflower in the air fryer, plus a few tips to get the best texture every single time.
Let’s get right into it.
How Long to Cook Broccoli and Cauliflower in an Air Fryer
The short answer is 10 to 15 minutes, but the exact time depends on a few things.
Here’s a quick breakdown so you know what to expect:
1. Broccoli Cooking Time
Broccoli florets take roughly 8 to 12 minutes at 400°F in the air fryer.
Smaller florets cook faster, so if yours are bite-sized, check them around the 8-minute mark.
Larger florets may need the full 12 minutes to get tender with slightly crispy edges.
Shake the basket halfway through so they cook evenly on all sides.
2. Cauliflower Cooking Time
Cauliflower needs a bit more time, usually 12 to 15 minutes at 400°F.
It’s denser than broccoli, so it takes longer to soften and brown.
Cut the florets into similar sizes so they cook at the same rate.
If you like your cauliflower extra crispy, add 2 to 3 extra minutes and keep an eye on it.
3. Cooking Them Together
You can absolutely cook broccoli and cauliflower together in the air fryer.
Just know that the cauliflower needs a head start.
Add the cauliflower first and cook it for about 5 minutes, then add the broccoli and continue cooking for another 8 to 10 minutes.
That way, both veggies finish at the same time without one turning to mush.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower
Getting the timing right is only half the battle, so here are a few tips to make sure your veggies turn out great.
1. Don’t Skip the Oil
A light coat of olive oil helps the veggies crisp up instead of drying out.
Toss them in a bowl with a tablespoon of oil before they go in the basket.
2. Keep the Pieces Uniform
Even-sized florets cook evenly, which means no burnt edges or raw centers.
Aim for florets that are roughly the same size across the board.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Crowding steams the veggies instead of roasting them, so keep them in a single layer.
Cook in batches if you’re feeding a crowd.
4. Season After Cooking
Seasonings like garlic powder or parmesan can burn at high heat, so add them near the end or after cooking.
So, How Long to Cook Broccoli and Cauliflower in an Air Fryer?
Broccoli and cauliflower take about 10 to 15 minutes in an air fryer at 375°F to 400°F, with cauliflower needing slightly more time than broccoli.
Cook them separately or give the cauliflower a 5-minute head start if you’re doing both together.
Keep your florets uniform, use a little oil, and avoid overcrowding the basket for the best results.
Now that you know how long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, tender veggies any night of the week.