This air fryer savoury cake is a refined, crustless vegetable tart that prioritizes texture and simplicity. by combining tender steamed potatoes with nutrient-rich broccoli florets, you create a dense yet light base held together by a single egg and aged Parmigiano Reggiano. it is an ideal solution for a quick vegetarian main or a sophisticated side dish that requires minimal cleanup.
The air frying process excels here by creating a delicate, golden-brown parmesan crust while keeping the interior moist and flavorful. unlike traditional oven baking, the concentrated heat of the air fryer ensures even cooking in significantly less time, making it a reliable technique for weeknight meals.
Air Fryer Potato and Broccoli Savoury Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the cubed potatoes and broccoli florets in separate pots of salted water until tender. drain thoroughly and mash them together using a fork or ricer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetable mash with the egg and stir well. add grated parmigiano reggiano, salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth.
- Grease a baking tin with olive oil. pour in the mixture, level the surface, and sprinkle with more parmigiano.
- Place in the air fryer at 340°F (170°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and firm.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. store in the fridge for up to 1 day and reheat in the air fryer.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Savoury Cake
- Maximize moisture removal: after boiling the potatoes and broccoli, ensure they are drained thoroughly. if the vegetables are too wet, the cake will struggle to set properly in the air fryer. you can even return them to the hot pot for a minute to steam off any excess water.
- Uniform mashing: for the most professional texture, use a potato ricer for the potatoes. this results in a light, airy crumb that contrasts beautifully with the whole broccoli pieces or a coarser mash.
- Choosing the right mold: use a thin-walled metal or silicone tin. thick ceramic dishes can take longer to heat up in the air fryer, which may result in an unevenly cooked center.
- The golden crust: for an extra-crispy finish, spray a tiny bit of olive oil over the final layer of parmigiano before starting the air fryer. this helps the cheese melt and brown into a professional-looking crust.
- Check for doneness: since every air fryer model circulates air differently, use a toothpick or a small knife to check the center. it should come out clean and the edges should slightly pull away from the sides of the mold.
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