Preheat oven or air fryer:

• If baking, arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 425°F.

• If air frying, preheat the air fryer to 400°F.

Prepare the broccoli stems:

• Peel the broccoli stems with a vegetable peeler (or trim off the tough, fibrous outer layer with a sharp knife).

• Cut the stems lengthwise into 1/8″- to 1/4″-thick slices. If the stems are longer than 6″, cut them in half crosswise.

Prepare the coating:

• In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and paprika.

• Transfer about one-third of the panko mixture to a large shallow bowl.

• Pour the olive oil into another large shallow bowl.

Coat the broccoli:

• Working a few pieces at a time, toss the broccoli stems in the olive oil, then dredge in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

• When the panko mixture runs out, replenish with another third.

• Arrange the breaded broccoli on a metal baking sheet.

Bake the broccoli fries:

• If baking, bake for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Air fry the broccoli fries:

• If air frying, arrange the broccoli fries in a single layer in the basket.

• Air fry for about 5 minutes, until crispy and tender.

Serve:

• Transfer the fries to a platter and season with additional salt.

• Serve with ranch or Caesar dressing for dipping.