Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Recipe
These Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are crispy, cheesy bites perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating, they’re easy to prepare and cooked to golden perfection using an air fryer for a delightful texture without deep frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 16 poppers) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli Mixture
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Coating & Cooking
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best)
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the chopped broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until bright green. Drain and run under cold water to stop the cooking. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the blanched broccoli. Add the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the Poppers: Using your hands, take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate as you go.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each broccoli cheese ball in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray for easy removal. Place the broccoli cheddar poppers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook: Air fry the poppers for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Gently shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or sriracha mayo.
Notes
- Be sure to pat the broccoli very dry after blanching to prevent soggy poppers.
- You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even crisping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer for best results.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, Air Fryer Appetizer, Cheesy Broccoli Bites, Healthy Snack, Vegetarian Snack
