Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Name: Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Broccoli florets; Shredded cheddar cheese; Breadcrumbs; Eggs; Garlic powder; Onion powder; Salt; Pepper

Published: October 7, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber and vitamins, these poppers are a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty snacks in no time, perfect for busy days.
Versatile Flavor: Customize your poppers by adding spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Perfect for Dipping: Enjoy them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for added flavor.
Kid-Friendly: These poppers are sure to please picky eaters, making them a hit at family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools makes preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Measuring cups
Grater

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This is crucial for achieving that crispy texture without excessive oil, making your poppers healthier.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, enhancing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

Broccoli florets
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Breadcrumbs
Eggs
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Pepper

How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Begin by thoroughly washing the broccoli florets. Cut them into small pieces if needed. Steam or blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and let cool before proceeding.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli with the following:
1. Add in shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
2. Stir in breadcrumbs, followed by eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Poppers

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Ensure they are compact enough to hold together during cooking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Poppers

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the shaped poppers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not touch each other.
Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

How to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Enjoying your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers can be an exciting experience with the right serving ideas. These poppers are versatile and pair well with a variety of dips and sides that enhance their flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

Creamy Ranch: A classic choice, this sauce adds a cool and tangy flavor that complements the cheesy poppers perfectly.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who like heat, mixing sriracha with mayo creates a creamy, spicy dip that elevates the taste.
Tangy BBQ Sauce: The sweet and smoky notes of BBQ sauce provide a delightful contrast to the savory poppers.

As Part of a Platter

Vegetable Crudités: Serve your poppers alongside fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a colorful and healthy platter.
Cheese Board: Pair them with different cheeses for a gourmet experience; think sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese.

With Salads

Greek Salad: The freshness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives in a Greek salad complements the richness of the poppers.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor that balances well with the cheesy bite of the poppers.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

To achieve the best results when making Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality cheddar will enhance both flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green broccoli and aged cheddar for maximum taste.
Do Not Overcrowd the Basket: Place the poppers in a single layer in your air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust it slightly for perfect crispy poppers.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs or spices like garlic powder or onion powder to elevate the flavor profile of your mixture.
Let Them Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing them to cool for a few minutes helps them firm up and enhances their crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and freshness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, quinoa salad is nutritious and pairs well with the cheesy texture of the poppers.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a satisfying crunch while providing extra nutrients.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the poppers beautifully.
Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for a fun dipping option that complements your poppers nicely.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into sauces alongside your cheesy snacks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience with Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking the broccoli too long can make it mushy. Ensure you steam it just enough to maintain a bit of crunch before mixing.
Ignoring the cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can lead to poor melting and flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheddar for the best results.
Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for even crispiness.
Skipping the binding agents: Not adding enough egg or flour can cause your poppers to fall apart. Be sure to include these for better cohesion.
Using too much oil: While air frying requires less oil, using too much can lead to greasy poppers. A light spray is sufficient for a crispy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow poppers to cool completely before sealing them.

Freezing Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but expect softer texture.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers.

How do I make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you don’t overcrowd the basket and lightly spray with oil before cooking.

Can I customize the filling of my Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different cheeses or spices according to your taste preferences.

How long do Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers take to cook?

They typically take about 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are not only a tasty snack but also versatile. You can customize them with various cheeses or seasonings based on your preference. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or as a quick snack at home. Try making them today!

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