Crispy on the outside with an unbelievably creamy center, these air fryer broccoli tartlets are the appetizer you’ve been waiting for—light, yet totally indulgent. The secret? They’re completely flourless. Instead, a flavorful potato and broccoli base holds a rich, savory filling of mascarpone and Italian sausage. They’re perfect for any occasion, from a festive dinner party to a truly special everyday bite.
Try it: Light and Crispy Air Fryer Cod with Broccoli Herb Crust
Broccoli Tartlets in the Air Fryer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil potatoes and broccoli separately in salted water until tender. Drain and cool slightly.
- Mash the potatoes and blend the broccoli into a purée, reserving 2 tablespoons for the filling.
- Combine potatoes and broccoli in a bowl with Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and compact.
- Lightly oil the tartlet molds and press the mixture into the molds to form the base and sides. Reserve some for the lattice top.
- Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 10 minutes to pre-bake the bases.
- Cook the sausage in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil until golden, then add mascarpone and reserved broccoli purée.
- Fill the tartlet bases with the sausage mixture and top with strips of remaining dough.
- Return to the air fryer and cook again at 360°F (180°C) for another 10 minutes or until golden.
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes before serving.
Beyond the Recipe: A Few Final Touches
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. Cooking is often about intuition, so feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of your favorite spice or substituting an ingredient based on what you have fresh and seasonal in your kitchen.
Tasting as you go is the real secret to a great dish. Always check the seasoning just before serving. You might find it needs an extra pinch of salt, a splash of acidity (like lemon juice or vinegar), or a touch of sweetness to perfectly balance the flavors for your palate.
If you happen to have leftovers, store them properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You might even find that the flavors have mingled and deepened beautifully by the next day, making for an even better meal.
Finally, never underestimate the power of presentation. Even a simple scattering of fresh herbs, a crack of black pepper, or a drizzle of high-quality finishing oil right before it hits the table can truly elevate the final dish from good to great.
Since 2012, I’ve been sharing life through the things I love most — cooking, traveling, observing, and writing. I do it with the curiosity of someone who’s always learning, and the joy of sharing something real and heartfelt
