This scrumptious Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and is the perfect weeknight dinner that your family will love! You can easily whip them up in your air fryer, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, feel free to switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand, this is an ultimate “clean out the fridge” meal! Got a half a cup of leftover veggies? Throw them in! The versatility makes it a hit.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Fresh Broccoli Florets
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Salt and Pepper
- Egg (or flax egg for plant-based option)
Let’s Get Cooking!
Prep the Broccoli: Begin by washing your fresh broccoli florets thoroughly. If you want a softer texture, you can blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes, just enough to brighten the color. Drain them, chop into smaller pieces, and set aside to cool.
Mix it All Together: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, a couple pinches of salt and pepper, and your egg (or flax egg). Mix everything well until it’s all coated and combined.
Shape the Poppers: Shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Honestly, the size is up to you, but I recommend aiming for about two tablespoons per popper, enough that they’ll hold their shape but not so big they won’t cook through.
Heat Up the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once it’s hot, give the basket a light spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Air Fry Those Poppers: Place your poppers in a single layer without crowding the basket. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden brown and looking downright irresistible. You might want to give them a little shake halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once they’re done, allow the poppers to cool for a minute or two. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce. I like ranch or marinara, but go wild blue cheese, chipotle mayo…the sky’s the limit!
I absolutely adore this Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers recipe! This has become my go-to recipe when I need a quick and easy snack that feels indulgent yet healthy. I mean, can you beat the golden, crunchy exterior with the creamy, cheesy interior? And the best part is, it’s a total win with my kids, they ask for seconds! Seriously, I’m a real sucker for any dish where I can sneak in veggies and they’ll actually eat them.
If you loved this Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers recipe, be sure to check out my Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes, my Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins, or my Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This recipe is such a lifesaver! It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re juggling family schedules. You’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time!
Crowd-Pleaser
With tons of flavor and cheesy goodness, these poppers are bound to be a hit with the whole family. My friends were over the other day, and before I knew it, the plate was empty, they couldn’t get enough!
Customizable
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have. Got some leftover carrots or corn? Toss them in! Looking to make it spicy? Add some jalapeños! This recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile.
Comfort Food
These poppers are loaded with cheesy goodness, what’s not to love? Just think about that first crispy bite, with ooey-gooey cheese spilling out. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for soothing hungry tummies!
Make-Ahead Friendly
Prep a big batch ahead of time and just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready! You can store the shaped poppers in the fridge for a few hours, great for meal prep.
Serving and Storage Tips
What to Serve With This
These Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are delicious on their own, but you can absolutely elevate your meal by pairing them with a light salad or some roasted veggies. They also make a fun appetizer for your next gathering!
Storage
If you have leftovers, which is rare. I must say, they’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. You could also use the oven at the same temperature if you want to reheat a larger batch!
Freezer Friendly
Yes, these poppers are freezable! Just freeze them raw in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. When you’re ready to cook them, no need to thaw, just add a couple extra minutes to the air fryer time!
Food is an adventure waiting to happen, folks! Whipping up these Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers is not just about the meal it’s about bringing the family together, sharing laughter, and crafting wonderful memories. You know what they say: the kitchen is the heart of the home! Now get cooking, and enjoy!
I’m so excited for you to try these Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers! Happy cooking, and may your fridge always be stocked with delicious ingredients! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers
Ingredients
Method
- Wash the fresh broccoli florets thoroughly. Blanch in boiling water for a couple of minutes if you want a softer texture, then drain and chop into smaller pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and egg (or flax egg). Mix well until coated and combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or patties, ideally about 2 tablespoons each.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking oil.
- Place poppers in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Shake halfway through for even cooking.
- Allow to cool briefly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.