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Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers: Easy Bite-Sized Perfection


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  • Author: inas
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 20 poppers 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy, cheesy broccoli cheddar poppers made in the air fryer. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or kid-friendly veggie dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Prep the Broccoli: Steam broccoli until tender (4–5 minutes). Chop finely to avoid large chunks.
  2. Make the Mixture: Combine broccoli, cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix until it holds together.
  3. Shape Poppers: Form into 1-inch balls. Add extra breadcrumbs if mixture is too loose.
  4. Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray basket with cooking spray. Place poppers in a single layer, spray tops lightly, and air fry 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden.
  5. Serve: Enjoy warm with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra crispiness, roll poppers in panko before air frying. Can also be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 poppers
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg