Crispy Broccoli Fries Recipe: A Fun Twist on Veggie Snacking

Crispy, golden broccoli fries have become my unexpected kitchen obsession lately.

Vegetables can surprise you with their adaptability and deliciousness.

Perfectly seasoned and baked, these green sticks offer a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries.

Crunchy exteriors give way to tender interiors that spark joy with every bite.

Parents struggling to introduce more greens into their children’s diet might find this recipe revolutionary.

Simple ingredients and straightforward techniques make this dish accessible to home cooks of all skill levels.

Reasons to Try Crispy Broccoli Fries

• Reinvent Veggie Snacking: Transform boring broccoli stems into crunchy, golden fries that will make everyone forget they're eating a healthy vegetable.
• Master Quick Cooking Techniques: Learn two simple cooking methods (oven or air fryer) that guarantee crispy results without complicated steps, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Swap seasonings or dipping sauces to create endless taste variations that keep this recipe exciting and adaptable to different preferences.
• Zero Food Waste Winner: Cleverly use broccoli stems that are often discarded, turning them into a delicious side dish that maximizes nutrition and minimizes kitchen waste.

Ingredients Required for Making Broccoli Fries

• Broccoli Stems: A hearty vegetable base that provides a nutritious and crunchy alternative to traditional potato fries.

• Parmesan Cheese, Panko Breadcrumbs, Garlic Powder, Salt, Paprika: A flavorful and crispy mixture that creates a golden, seasoned exterior for the broccoli fries.

• Olive Oil: Helps the dry coating adhere to the broccoli and promotes even browning and crispiness.

• Ranch Dressing, Caesar Dressing: Classic dipping sauces that complement the savory and crispy broccoli fries.

How to Cook Crispy Broccoli Fries Perfectly

Step 1: Warm Up Your Cooking Device

Preheat your oven to 425°F or air fryer to 400°F. Choose your preferred cooking method and get ready to transform broccoli stems into crispy delights.

Step 2: Prepare Broccoli Stems

Grab your vegetable peeler and remove the tough outer layer from broccoli stems. Slice the stems into thin, fry-like strips about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

If stems are longer than 6 inches, cut them in half crosswise for easier handling.

Step 3: Create Crunchy Coating

• Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Paprika
• Olive oil

Mix the dry ingredients in a medium bowl.

Set up two shallow bowls: one with olive oil and another with the panko mixture.

Step 4: Coat the Broccoli Strips

Dip each broccoli strip first into olive oil, then roll in the panko mixture.

Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Replenish the panko mixture as needed.

Arrange the coated strips on a metal baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake in Oven

If using an oven, place the baking sheet in the center rack.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until the strips turn golden and crispy.

Step 6: Air Fry Alternative

For air fryer method, arrange broccoli strips in a single layer in the basket.

Cook for about 5 minutes until crispy and tender.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the broccoli fries to a serving platter.

Sprinkle with extra salt if desired. Serve with ranch or Caesar dressing for dipping and watch them disappear!

Tips to Achieve Perfect Broccoli Fries Texture

• Remove the tough, fibrous outer layer of broccoli stems carefully with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife for tender, delicious fries.
• Press panko mixture gently onto broccoli stems to ensure a crispy, even layer that adheres perfectly during cooking.
• Arrange broccoli fries in a single layer to prevent steaming and achieve maximum crispiness in the oven or air fryer.
• Cut broccoli stems into uniform 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick slices for even cooking and a professional-looking result.
• Experiment with additional seasonings like dried herbs, chili powder, or smoked paprika to customize the taste of your broccoli fries.

Alternative Ways to Serve Broccoli Fries

• Spicy Southwest Broccoli Fries: Replace Parmesan with pepper jack cheese and add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne for a fiery kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Broccoli Fries: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed almond meal, mix in dried oregano, thyme, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
• Cheesy Garlic Broccoli Fries: Incorporate grated cheddar cheese into the coating, increase garlic powder, and top with fresh chopped parsley after cooking.
• Curry Coconut Broccoli Fries: Use coconut flour instead of panko, add mild curry powder, and coat with shredded unsweetened coconut for an exotic flavor profile.

Pairings That Go Well With Broccoli Fries

• Zesty Dipping Delight: Blend homemade garlic aioli with fresh herbs like chives and parsley for a creamy, tangy sauce that complements the crispy broccoli texture and enhances overall taste experience.
• Wine and Protein Harmony: Pair with a crisp, light Sauvignon Blanc and grilled chicken breast to create a balanced meal that highlights the broccoli fries' savory coating and provides complementary protein.
• Mediterranean Fusion Plate: Serve alongside Greek-style lamb kebabs and tzatziki sauce, introducing Mediterranean flavors that contrast with the broccoli's earthy undertones and add exciting culinary complexity.

Best Way to Store Broccoli Fries After Cooking

• Place cooled broccoli fries in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap completely cooled broccoli fries individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain crispy texture and flavor.
• Spread frozen or refrigerated broccoli fries on a baking sheet. Bake at 375F for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

• Are broccoli stems edible?

Yes, broccoli stems are completely edible and packed with nutrients. They’re often overlooked but have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are just as nutritious as the florets.

• Can I make these fries gluten-free?

Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to create a gluten-free version of these broccoli fries.

• How do I ensure the broccoli fries get crispy?

Make sure to thoroughly coat the stems in olive oil and press the panko mixture firmly onto the surface. This helps create a crispy exterior when baking or air frying.

Broccoli Fries Recipe

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4.5 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Crispy Broccoli Fries deliver a healthy twist on classic comfort food, turning nutritious green florets into a crowd-pleasing snack. Crunchy edges and golden-green goodness make this simple recipe a delightful way to enjoy vegetables that will have everyone reaching for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound (0.5 lb) broccoli stems
• 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Dipping Sauce:

• Ranch or Caesar dressing

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven or air fryer to the optimal temperature. For conventional oven, set to 425F with the rack positioned in the center. For air fryer, preheat to 400F.
2. Transform broccoli stems by removing the tough outer layer using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife. Slice stems lengthwise into thin strips, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Cut longer stems in half crosswise if exceeding 6 inches.
3. Create a crispy coating mixture by combining Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and paprika in a medium bowl. Divide the mixture into two separate shallow bowls, reserving one-third for initial coating. Pour olive oil into a separate shallow bowl.
4. Coat the broccoli stems by first dipping them in olive oil, then thoroughly dredging in the panko mixture. Press gently to ensure even adherence. Replenish the panko mixture as needed, using the reserved portion.
5. For oven method, arrange breaded broccoli on a metal baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through cooking time, until achieving a golden and crispy exterior.
6. For air fryer method, arrange broccoli fries in a single layer within the basket. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until crisp and tender.
7. Transfer the finished broccoli fries to a serving platter. Sprinkle with additional salt if desired. Accompany with ranch or Caesar dressing for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Notes

• Trim broccoli stems carefully to ensure even, crispy coating that maximizes texture and minimizes waste.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for better flavor and crisp breading, grating it yourself for maximum taste intensity.
• Pat broccoli stems completely dry before coating to help breading adhere perfectly and prevent soggy results.
• Experiment with alternative breadcrumb options like gluten-free panko or almond flour for dietary adaptations.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes (oven) or 5 minutes (air fryer)
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 1100 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg