Frozen asparagus in the air fryer is one of the simplest dishes one can make! Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is a great summer side dish.

air fried asparagus in a platter with some lemon and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl on the side.

Why you’ll love this recipe

It’s as easy as dumping and cooking with little to no prepping ahead, attending to, and cleaning up.

It’s extremely nutritious. Asparagus is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food.

It’s ready in under 20 minutes! Unless you have a small air fryer like me, then you’ll have to do it in two batches which is still fast!

How to make frozen asparagus in the air fryer

My air fryer doesn’t require preheating but if yours does, go ahead and do that first.

In a small bowl add the garlic powder, salt, red pepper flakes, and oil and set aside.

There’s no need to thaw the asparagus. Just take it out of the bag toss the seasonings and oil and then throw it into the air fryer. Make sure you arrange the asparagus in a single layer. If your air fryer basket is small, you may need to do this in 2 batches.

Air fry at 400ºF for 8 minutes shaking the basket in between for even cooking.

Take out of the air fryer, squeeze a tiny bit of lemon juice, add some more crushed red pepper flakes if you wish, and enjoy immediately.

frozen asparagus cuts and spears in air fryer basket

Tips & substitutions

Make sure to arrange the asparagus in a single layer to prevent steaming. We want crispy and tender and not wilted asparagus.
Asparagus can be seasoned with anything you like so feel free to experiment. Butter, lemon juice, and pepper is another popular combination.

Storage

Air-fried asparagus is best eaten immediately but can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Reheat in the oven to enjoy leftovers.

What to eat with

Asparagus is good with lamb chops, as a side in dinner bowls, and in salads too.

Other easy sides to try

Zucchini with Eggs

Lauki

Cauliflower Cashew Curry

If you try this recipe, I’d appreciate it so much if you would rate it! And let me know in the comments how it worked out for you. I love hearing feedback and the recipe rating helps others find this recipe!

Equipment

1 large air fryer

Ingredients

1 1/2 tablespoon s neutral oil avocado
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
12 ounces frozen asparagus cuts and tips

Instructions

Add the oil and all the seasonings in a small bowl and mix to incorporate.
Take out the asparagus and add it to a large bowl. Add the seasoned oil and toss to coat the asparagus.
Air fry the asparagus on 400ºF/204ºC for a total of 12 minutes checking midway to see the progress and shake the basket to help it cook evenly.
Once the asparagus is ready, squeeze some lemon juice and enjoy immediately.