How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

How do I know the head cauliflower is done?

Use the visual cues in the instructions first: the outside should be browned or crisp and the center should be hot and tender. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a food thermometer.

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Vegetarian

Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole

Name: Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets (about 3 cups); 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 cup almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for topping); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

By Airfryfeast Test KitchenReviewed by Airfryfeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 8, 2026 · Updated Jun 16, 2026

American 40 mins air-fryer-friendlyvegetariangluten-freelow-carbhealthyeasycrispfamily-friendlyweeknight-dinnerone-potcomfort-foodv2

Make this easy and quick air fryer low-carb cauliflower and broccoli casserole featuring a creamy cheese sauce and crunchy topping. This gluten-free, vegetarian, and healthy comfort food recipe is perfect for family dinners and weeknight meals.

Prep 15 min

Cook 25 min

Total 40 min

Servings 4

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Servings 4

1 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 cup almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ingredients for Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower and broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange the seasoned florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until just tender but still crisp.
While the vegetables cook, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
Transfer the air-fried cauliflower and broccoli into an air fryer-safe casserole dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the vegetables and gently stir to combine.
Sprinkle almond flour evenly over the casserole for a crunchy topping.
Return the casserole pan to the air fryer. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the top is golden brown, crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve warm as a comforting low-carb main course or side dish perfect for family meals.

Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole cooking in the air fryer

Tips

Air Fryer Model Notes

Cook Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole in a single layer when possible. Basket models may need batches; oven-style models may need a tray rotation halfway through for even browning.

Crispiness Control

Pat the head cauliflower dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Doneness Cues

Look for browned edges, a hot center, and the texture described in the instructions.

Reheat In The Air Fryer

Reheat leftovers at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.
How do I know the head cauliflower is done?: Use the visual cues in the instructions first: the outside should be browned or crisp and the center should be hot and tender. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a food thermometer.

Ingredient Replacements

If you want to customize this Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole to fit dietary needs or ingredient availability, here are some easy, healthy substitutions:

Cauliflower: Use Romanesco or white cabbage for a different texture but similar low-carb impact.
Broccoli: Swap with Brussels sprouts or asparagus tips to vary flavor while retaining crispness.
Olive Oil: Replace with avocado oil or melted coconut oil—both air fryer friendly healthy fats.
Unsalted Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil to make the dish dairy-free or vegan.
Heavy Cream: Substitute with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for dairy-free creaminess.
Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese: For vegan or dairy-free options, try nutritional yeast and vegan melting cheese alternatives.
Almond Flour: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds (for keto) to maintain a crunchy topping.
Garlic, Spices, and Mustard: Adjust or omit based on taste preferences; they enhance the savory, comforting profile.

These swaps allow you to easily make this casserole vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, ketogenic, or paleo while keeping it low-carb, healthy, and simple—ideal for family meals and quick preparation.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

Freeze only if the main ingredient and coating are freezer-friendly. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat in the air fryer at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating for the best flavor.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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Air Fryer Low-Carb Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole

Recipe Details

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