Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are a delicious and healthier snack made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and cream cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and air fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized poppers offer a flavorful and crispy treat with less oil, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 poppers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli Cheese 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
Breading and 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 immediately run under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture to avoid sogginess.
- 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 evenly incorporated, forming a consistent filling.
- Shape the Poppers: Using clean hands, take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into small balls or patties roughly the size of a golf ball. Place each formed popper on a plate as you proceed.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each broccoli cheese ball in the breadcrumbs until thoroughly coated on all sides to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for approximately 5 minutes, which helps to achieve an even crispiness on the poppers.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the broccoli cheddar poppers in a single layer without touching. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to promote browning.
- Cook: Air fry the poppers for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Gently shake or turn the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning on all sides.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch or sriracha mayo for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the broccoli is thoroughly dried after blanching to prevent sogginess.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- You can prep the poppers ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
Keywords: Air fryer, Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, Crispy snack, Appetizer, Healthy snack, Vegetarian, Cheese bites
