Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week? The Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl is your new go-to! This recipe pairs juicy, perfectly browned sausage with crisp-tender broccoli, all topped with melty cheese and a burst of seasoning, making it a wholesome, satisfying bowl that’ll keep you coming back for more. Whether you want a comforting dinner or a healthy lunch prep idea, this dish hits every mark with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
• Healthy and Balanced: Combines protein-packed sausage with nutrient-rich broccoli for a meal that fuels your body.
• Hands-Off Cooking: The air fryer does the work, delivering crispy texture without extra oil.
• Flavor Packed: Bold spices and melted cheese turn basic ingredients into a crave-worthy feast.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients or add extras depending on what you love or have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl. From fresh veggies to savory sausage and just the right amount of cheese, you’ll get a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

• Italian Sausage: Choose fresh or pre-cooked sausage for juicy, flavorful protein.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Crisp and green, they add crunch and important vitamins.
• Olive Oil: A light coating helps the broccoli crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor enhancing both sausage and broccoli.
• Smoked Paprika: Gives a warm, smoky note that complements the sausage perfectly.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts on top adding creamy richness and a cheesy finish.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out all the natural flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a little spicy kick if you like heat.

Variations for Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl

This recipe is super adaptable, making it easy to fit different tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment or put your own spin on it with these delicious swaps and additions.

• Swap the Sausage: Try chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages for different protein options.
• Add Roasted Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it Spicy: Incorporate jalapeños or use hot Italian sausage for some heat.
• Keto or Low-Carb: Perfect as is, just skip any carb-heavy extras for a low-carb meal.

How to Make Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing and cutting your broccoli into evenly sized florets. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix helps bring out the natural sweetness of the broccoli while adding a smoky, savory touch.

Step 2: Air Fry the Broccoli

Place the seasoned broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10 minutes, shaking halfway through for beautiful browning and crisp edges.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

While the broccoli cooks, slice or chop your sausage into bite-sized pieces, then add them to the air fryer basket. Cook the sausage alongside the broccoli or separately at 380°F for about 8-10 minutes until nicely browned and fully cooked.

Step 4: Assemble and Add Cheese

Once the broccoli and sausage are done, combine them in an oven-safe bowl or plate. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, then pop the whole dish back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F, just long enough for the cheese to melt perfectly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl is ready to serve! Enjoy it warm as a satisfying meal that combines fantastic textures with rich, savory flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl

• Even Sizing: Keep broccoli florets uniformly sized to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed; crowding the basket leads to steaming instead of crisping.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: For best crisp results, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding ingredients.
• Check Sausage Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm sausage is cooked through (160°F for pork, 165°F for chicken or turkey).
• Add Cheese Last: Keep cheese for the very end to avoid burning and ensure it melts nicely.

How to Serve Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brighten the dish visually and add a fragrance that elevates the flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes also makes fantastic garnishes if you want a lively punch.

Side Dishes

This bowl pairs wonderfully with a light green salad, some crusty whole grain bread, or even a scoop of quinoa or brown rice to round out the meal with complex carbs.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the sausage and broccoli over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles to keep the meal low-carb yet filling. Alternatively, layer it in a grain bowl or wrap in a warm tortilla for on-the-go lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together, making the next-day meal just as tasty, if not better.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Just place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back the crisp texture or warm gently in a microwave covered with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid sogginess before seasoning and air frying for the best texture.

What type of sausage works best in the Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl?

Italian sausage is great for rich flavor, but any fresh or pre-cooked sausage you love will work well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just double-check your sausage ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten if you have sensitivities.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, substitute the sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How spicy is the dish?

It’s mild by default but you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or spicy sausage varieties to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

The Air Fryer Sausage & Loaded Broccoli Bowl is a delightful blend of convenience, nutrition, and bold flavor that anyone can make on a busy night or anytime you crave a comforting yet wholesome meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner staple packed with everything you love!

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