Description
Broccoli Cheddar Poppers: Crispy, cheesy air-fryer bites that pack broccoli and protein into a crowd-pleasing, guilt-free snack. Perfect for parties, game day, or a quick healthy treat, these poppers deliver a crunchy exterior with a melty cheddar center without deep frying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat or panko)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender, then chop finely and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings. Mix until evenly combined.
- Form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties.
- Lightly spray air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place poppers in a single layer and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with ranch, garlic yogurt dip, or marinara sauce.
Notes
- Tip: For extra crispness, refrigerate the formed poppers for 15 minutes before air frying.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cooking times may vary by air fryer model—adjust as needed.
- You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popper
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 70
- Fat: 3.2
- Saturated Fat: 1.9
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.3
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0.4
- Protein: 3.4
- Cholesterol: 20
Keywords: broccoli cheddar poppers, air fryer snacks, healthy cheese bites, crispy broccoli bites, veggie appetizer, gluten-free option, vegetarian snack