How to Air Fry Fennel

Trim the stalks and fronds from the bulb, reserving the fronds for garnish. Slice the bulb into halves or quarters through the root end — keeping the root attached holds the layers together during cooking. Rinse and pat dry.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and optionally a squeeze of lemon juice. Parmesan added in the last 3 minutes creates a beautiful savory crust. Fennel also pairs well with balsamic glaze.

Place fennel cut-side down in the basket. Air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping once at the halfway mark. The fennel is done when deeply caramelized on the cut sides and completely tender when pierced with a fork.

Serve as a side vegetable, over pasta with olive oil and olives, or alongside fish and chicken. Scatter the reserved fronds on top for freshness. Roasted fennel is also excellent in grain bowls.

What temperature for air fryer fennel?

Air fry fennel at 400°F (205°C). The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, transforming fennel's raw anise-like bite into a mellow, slightly sweet flavor with browned edges.

How long to cook fennel in air fryer?

Air fry halved or quartered fennel bulbs for 15–18 minutes at 400°F. Fennel is done when the cut face is golden brown and the layers are tender when pierced with a fork. Thinner wedges finish closer to 15 minutes.

Tips for air fryer fennel?

Trim the stalks and tough outer layer but keep the core intact so the wedges hold together during cooking. Toss with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice before cooking to enhance the natural sweetness. Save the fronds as a garnish — they add fresh flavor to the finished dish.