Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Name: Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fresh broccoli, chopped into small florets; Shredded cheddar cheese; Breadcrumbs; Eggs; Garlic powder; Onion powder; Salt and pepper

Published: October 8, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Snack Option: Packed with nutrients, these poppers are a guilt-free indulgence.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple steps, anyone can make them.
Versatile Flavor: Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for an added twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as appetizers, snacks, or party food that everyone will enjoy.
Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer gives these poppers a delightful crunch without extra oil.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, you will need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This is key for achieving that crispy texture while using less oil than traditional frying methods.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
Baking sheet: Useful for organizing and transferring your poppers to the air fryer.
Spoon or spatula: Helps in scooping and shaping your poppers with ease.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

Fresh broccoli, chopped into small florets
Shredded cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs
Eggs
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper

How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Begin by washing the fresh broccoli. Chop it into small florets for even cooking.
Steam or blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and let cool.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Shape the Poppers

Using your hands or a spoon, take small portions of the mixture and form them into bite-sized balls or patties.
Place the formed poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Air Frying Time

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place the broccoli cheddar poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, carefully remove the poppers from the air fryer.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing or marinara sauce for an extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

These Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are delicious on their own, but they can be even better with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions that elevate your snacking experience.

With Dipping Sauces

Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that adds a creamy and herby flavor.
Garlic Aioli: A rich and flavorful dip that complements the poppers nicely.
Spicy Sriracha Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, this spicy sauce adds heat and flavor.

On a Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the poppers on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
Caesar Salad: Add crunchiness with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for a hearty option.

As an Appetizer

Party Platter: Arrange the poppers on a platter with colorful veggies for a fun appetizer at gatherings.
Game Day Snack: Perfect for watching sports; serve these poppers alongside your favorite finger foods.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

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

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar cheese yield the best flavor and texture.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and allows for proper crisping.
Experiment with Seasonings: Adding garlic powder or onion powder enhances flavor.
Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Depending on your air fryer model, you might need to tweak the cooking time slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Pair your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers with these delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add sweetness and crunch; they can also be air-fried for convenience.
Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that brings protein and fiber to your plate, made simply with lemon and herbs.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh element; season with salt and pepper for taste.
Roasted Cauliflower: Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil and spices, then roast until tender; it pairs well with cheesy flavors.
Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy poppers.
Hummus and Veggies: Serve assorted raw vegetables with hummus for a healthy dip option alongside your poppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers from good to great.

Skipping the Blanching Step: Not blanching the broccoli can result in a tough texture. Quickly steam or boil the broccoli before mixing to ensure a tender bite.
Overloading the Air Fryer Basket: Packing too many poppers in the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Fry them in batches for a perfect crisp every time.
Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoned poppers may taste bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper, as well as any herbs or spices you enjoy.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting flavor and texture. Choose a high-quality cheddar for the best results.
Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat can lead to longer cooking times and less crispy poppers. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container.
They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Place cooled poppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 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 be aware they may lose crispiness.
Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

To achieve extra crispiness, spray the poppers lightly with cooking spray before frying. This helps create that golden crust.

Can I use other cheeses for my poppers?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors in your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers.

How do I customize my Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers?

You can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or incorporate spices such as garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.

Are Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers healthy?

Absolutely! These poppers are packed with nutrients from broccoli and have less oil than traditional frying methods, making them a healthier snack option.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different cheeses or veggies, making each batch unique. This recipe is perfect for snacking anytime—so give it a try!

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