Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Recipe
These Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are a deliciously crispy and cheesy appetizer or snack, combining fresh broccoli with sharp cheddar and creamy cheeses. Quickly cooked in the air fryer, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 poppers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Cheese
- 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
Binders & Coating
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the finely chopped broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent sogginess.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, and blanched broccoli. Add the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until fully incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Shape the Poppers: Using your hands, scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into small balls or patties roughly the size of a golf ball. Place the shaped poppers onto a plate or tray as you continue forming them.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each broccoli cheese ball in the breadcrumbs until fully and evenly coated to ensure a crispy outer layer.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the poppers develop a crispy crust quickly when cooking starts.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the broccoli cheddar poppers in a single layer, ensuring none are touching for even air circulation. Lightly spray the tops of the poppers with cooking spray to enhance browning.
- Cook: Air fry the poppers for 8-10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Gently shake or turn the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning of all sides.
- Serve: Remove the cooked poppers carefully and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or sriracha mayo for a flavorful bite.
Notes
- Ensure broccoli is very well dried after blanching to prevent excess moisture that can make poppers soggy.
- Panko breadcrumbs work best for crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs can be substituted if needed.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick.
- These poppers are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer to retain crispiness.
- Use a non-stick spray or brush lightly with oil if your air fryer basket tends to stick.
Keywords: Air Fryer, Broccoli, Cheddar, Cheese Poppers, Appetizer, Snack, Crispy, Healthy, Vegetarian
