Crispy Parmesan Artichoke Hearts

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Method: Oven-baked or air fryer
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 (14 oz) can or jar of artichoke hearts, drained and patted dry
  (Use quartered hearts in brine or water, not marinated for best crispiness)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for baking)

Optional for dipping:

• Garlic aioli

• Spicy mayo

• Marinara sauce

• Ranch dressing

Instructions

Oven Method

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it.

2. Prep the artichokes: Drain and pat dry the artichoke hearts very well. Cut into halves or quarters if whole.

3. Set up dredging stations:

   • In one bowl: beaten egg

   • In another bowl: mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Coat each artichoke heart:

   • Dip into the egg.

   • Then coat in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to stick.

5. Place on baking sheet: Arrange coated hearts in a single layer. Drizzle or spray lightly with olive oil for extra crispness.

6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp.

7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired. Add your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

2. Follow the same dredging process.

3. Arrange artichoke hearts in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).

4. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• Crispier? Use Panko breadcrumbs and a touch of olive oil spray.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

• Spicy Twist: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture.

• Add Herbs: Finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley mix well into the breading.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 170

• Fat: 9g

• Carbs: 14g

• Protein: 7g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 430mg

(Based on baking method using canned artichokes, Panko, and Parmesan)