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: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

October 15, 2025

Updated:

October 15, 2025

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Discover the irresistible Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, the perfect healthy snack that combines the crunchiness of fresh broccoli with gooey cheddar cheese. Ideal for parties, movie nights, or a quick afternoon treat, these poppers deliver rich, cheesy flavor without the excess oil of traditional frying. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra twist, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Snack Option: These poppers are packed with nutrients from broccoli and are lower in calories compared to deep-fried snacks.
Easy Preparation: Quickly whip up these poppers in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of broccoli and cheddar creates a mouthwatering taste that will please both kids and adults.
Versatile Serving Suggestions: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack; they fit any occasion!
Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these poppers a satisfying crunch without additional oil.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, a few essential tools will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This tool ensures your poppers cook evenly while achieving that desired crispy texture without excess oil.
Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to ensuring your poppers have the right balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets. Steam or blanch briefly until tender but still crisp. Drain well and let cool.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Poppers

Using your hands or a spoon, form small balls or patties from the mixture. Make sure they are compact enough to hold their shape when cooked.

Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures even cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Poppers

Arrange the formed poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from the air fryer and garnish with finely chopped parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are a versatile snack that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you want a simple dip or a more elaborate platter, these poppers can elevate your snacking experience.

With Dipping Sauces

Ranch Dressing – A classic choice, ranch dressing adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the cheesy poppers.
Buffalo Sauce – For those who enjoy a kick, buffalo sauce brings heat and zest, making every bite exciting.
Honey Mustard – This sweet and tangy sauce provides a delightful contrast to the savory poppers.

As Part of a Platter

Veggie Sticks – Pairing poppers with fresh carrot and celery sticks adds crunch and balances out the meal.
Cheese Board – Include your favorite cheeses and crackers for a fun, shareable snack option.
Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruits like grapes or melon can add sweetness to complement the savory flavors of the poppers.

In a Salad

Mixed Green Salad – Toss poppers into a bed of greens with your favorite vinaigrette for a hearty salad option.
Caesar Salad – Add crispy broccoli cheddar poppers to Caesar salad for an innovative twist on this classic dish.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

To ensure your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Broccoli – Fresh broccoli gives the best texture and flavor compared to frozen options.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – For even cooking, place poppers in a single layer without stacking them in the air fryer.
Adjust Cooking Time – Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to slightly adjust the cooking time for optimal crispiness.
Preheat Your Air Fryer – Preheating ensures that the poppers cook evenly from start to finish.
Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or pepper for extra flavor in your mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

When serving Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Garlic Bread – A crunchy side that adds delightful garlic flavor; perfect for dipping into sauces!
Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy and slightly sweet, they provide a wonderful contrast to cheesy poppers.
Coleslaw – A refreshing side that adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the poppers.
Quinoa Salad – Packed with nutrients, this salad is healthy and can be made ahead of time.
Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites pair well with broccoli cheddar flavors for an elegant touch.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice mixed with herbs offers a mild base that complements the bold taste of poppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor of your dish.

Overcooking the broccoli: If you cook the broccoli too long, it becomes mushy. Steam it just until tender before mixing with cheese.
Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Use a good melting cheese like cheddar for the best results in your poppers.
Skipping the seasoning: Without proper seasoning, your poppers can taste bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Crowding the air fryer basket: Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space between each popper for optimal crispiness.
Neglecting to preheat the air fryer: Failing to preheat can result in longer cooking times and less crispy poppers. Always preheat your air fryer before adding food.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked poppers in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
Place poppers in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place poppers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm. This method may make them less crispy.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli for Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but ensure it’s thawed and drained well before mixing with cheese.

How do I make these poppers gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like almond flour or crushed cornflakes.

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

Delicious dipping options include ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even marinara sauce for a flavorful twist.

How many calories are in Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers?

Each serving typically contains around 150-200 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. You can adjust seasonings or mix in other vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for snacks or appetizers!