Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Name: Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fresh broccoli florets; Shredded cheddar cheese; Breadcrumbs; Flaxseed meal; Garlic powder; Onion powder; Salt; Pepper

Published: October 1, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Snack Option: Packed with nutrients and low in oil, these poppers satisfy your cravings without compromising your health.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious bites in no time.
Cheesy Goodness: The combination of fresh broccoli and melted cheddar creates a flavor explosion that delights every palate.
Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair these poppers with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra kick or serve them as a side dish at meals.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, gather your tools. Having everything at hand will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Cooking spray
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This is essential for achieving that crispy texture without using excessive oil.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl makes it easy to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor.
Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking, allowing your poppers to cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Poppers

Fresh broccoli florets
Shredded cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs
Egg (or flaxseed meal as a binder)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Pepper

How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing and chopping the fresh broccoli florets. Ensure they are small enough to fit into a mixing bowl easily.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The chopped broccoli,
2. Shredded cheddar cheese,
3. Breadcrumbs,
4. An egg (or flaxseed meal if preferred),
5. Garlic powder,
6. Onion powder,
7. Salt,
8. Pepper.

Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Poppers

Using your hands, form small balls or patties from the mixture. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Poppers

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the shaped poppers inside, making sure they do not touch. Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

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

How to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. These poppers make an excellent snack, appetizer, or even a party dish. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Dipping Sauces

Ranch Dressing: This creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the cheesy flavor of the poppers.
Sriracha Mayo: For a spicy kick, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce for a zesty dip.
Honey Mustard: The sweetness of honey mustard complements the savory taste of the poppers beautifully.

As a Salad Topping

Mixed Greens: Add the poppers on top of your favorite salad for extra crunch and flavor.
Caesar Salad: Substitute croutons with these poppers for a cheesy twist on a classic dish.

In Wraps

Vegetable Wraps: Include the poppers in a wrap filled with fresh veggies and your choice of sauce.
Tortilla Wraps: Roll them up with spinach and hummus for a nutritious snack on-the-go.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, follow these simple tips. They will help you create perfectly crispy and flavorful treats every time.

Choose Fresh Broccoli: Use fresh broccoli florets for better texture and flavor during cooking.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the poppers in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish on the outside.
Use Cooking Spray: A light spray will help enhance crispiness without adding extra oil.
Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking to avoid over-browning.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement their flavors well.

Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad offers crunch and color, balancing out the richness of the poppers.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side adds protein and texture, making it a filling addition to your meal.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory poppers.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add smoky flavors that pair nicely with cheesy snacks.
Hummus Platter: Serve with assorted vegetables and pita for a healthy snacking option.
Rice Bowl: Create a rice bowl topped with stir-fried vegetables for a hearty combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

Skipping the Blanching Step: Blanching broccoli before mixing it with cheese enhances its flavor and texture. Make sure to blanch for a few minutes until bright green, then cool quickly.
Overpacking the Air Fryer Basket: If you overcrowd the basket, your poppers may not cook evenly. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect crunch.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Opt for high-quality cheddar or a blend for a gooey texture. This elevates the overall taste of your poppers.
Neglecting to Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve that crispy exterior. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results before adding your poppers.
Ignoring Seasoning: Flavor is key! Don’t forget to season the mixture properly. Use salt, pepper, and any other favorite spices to enhance the taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
These poppers can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Place cooled poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm. Note that this may make them less crispy.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers.

How do I make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers healthier?

You can use low-fat cheese or substitute part of the cheese with nutritional yeast for added flavor without extra fat.

Can I substitute other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other veggies like cauliflower or carrot for variety while keeping the same basic method.

What dipping sauces pair well with Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers?

These poppers go great with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick!

Can I make these poppers vegan?

Absolutely! Replace cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent instead of eggs.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are not just delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding different spices or vegetables according to your taste. Try making these delightful snacks today—perfect for gatherings or as a healthy snack anytime!

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