🥔🥦🧀 Air Fryer Mashed Potato, Broccoli & Cheese Gratin
Last weekend, I made this Air Fryer Mashed Potato, Broccoli & Cheese Gratin, and it quickly became one of the most requested side dishes in our house. It all started when I had leftover mashed potatoes in the refrigerator and a head of broccoli that needed to be used up.
A friend suggested turning them into a cheesy gratin instead of making the usual casserole. Since I love experimenting with my air fryer on weekends, I decided to give it a try. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting anything extraordinary, but the results were amazing.
As it cooked, the smell of melted cheese, garlic, and buttery potatoes filled the kitchen. My husband kept asking when it would be ready, and the kids were excited because anything with cheese is usually a win in our house.
The top turned beautifully golden and bubbly, while the inside stayed creamy and comforting. The broccoli added freshness and texture, making the dish feel hearty without being too heavy. Everyone went back for seconds, and there wasn’t a spoonful left by the end of dinner.
Now this Air Fryer Gratin is one of my favorite comfort-food side dishes whenever I want something warm, cheesy, and family-approved.
🥔🥦🧀 Air Fryer Mashed Potato, Broccoli & Cheese Gratin
⏱ Prep Time
15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time
15–18 minutes
⏱ Total Time
30–35 minutes
🍽 Servings
6 servings
🛒 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- Extra cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley
- Paprika for color
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
Drain well and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the Potato Mixture
In a large bowl combine:
- Mashed potatoes
- Broccoli
- Butter
- Garlic
- Milk
- Half of the cheddar cheese
- Half of the mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Fill the Baking Dish
Lightly grease an air fryer-safe baking dish.
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the dish.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Dust lightly with paprika if desired.
Step 5: Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place the baking dish into the air fryer basket.
Cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the gratin to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This cheesy gratin pairs perfectly with:
- Roast chicken
- Grilled steak
- Baked salmon
- Air fryer pork chops
- Meatloaf
- Holiday dinners
🥗 Nutrition Information (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain well before mixing into the potatoes.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan all work beautifully.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble everything up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I reheat it in the air fryer?
Yes. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy golden cheese topping
✔ Creamy mashed potato center
✔ Family-friendly comfort food
✔ Great way to use leftovers
✔ Easy air fryer recipe
✔ Perfect holiday side dish
✔ Ready in about 30 minutes
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Mashed Potato, Broccoli & Cheese Gratin combines everything I love in a comfort-food side dish—creamy potatoes, tender broccoli, and plenty of melted cheese. The air fryer creates a beautifully golden top while keeping the inside rich and fluffy.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a weeknight dinner, bringing it to a family gathering, or making it for a holiday meal, this gratin is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. One bite of that cheesy, crispy topping, and you’ll see why my family keeps asking for it again and again!