Air Fryer broccoli cheddar poppers are a delightful treat. They’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. This dish is easy to whip up and makes for a great snack or side. You can enjoy them warm, dipped in your favorite sauce.

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

These poppers are not just tasty; they’re also super easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or as an after-school snack. Plus, they’re a fun way to sneak in some veggies for the kids!

How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Making these poppers is simple and straightforward. You’ll start by preparing the broccoli, mixing all the ingredients together, and then shaping the mixture into small balls. After that, you just air fry them until they’re golden and crispy. It’s a quick process with minimal cleanup!

What You Need

Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Fresh broccoli florets
Shredded cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Egg (or flax egg for plant-based option)

Step-by-Step

Cooking Steps

Prepare the broccoli by washing and chopping it into small florets; blanch briefly if desired.
In a mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and egg (or flax egg) until well mixed.
Shape mixture into small balls or patties.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease the basket. Arrange poppers in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

How to Serve Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

These poppers can be served in various delicious ways. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for extra flavor. They’re great as a side with soup or salad, or even as a fun appetizer at family gatherings. The options are endless!

How to Store Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

To keep your poppers fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, pop them back in the air fryer to regain that nice, crispy texture.

Recipe Tips

Texture Check: Ensure your mixture isn’t too wet; if it is, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Veggie Variations: You can add other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for different flavors.
Prep Ahead: Mix everything a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to air fry.
Freezing: Freeze them shaped but uncooked, and air fry right from the freezer; just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Dipping Sauces: Try different sauces to keep things fresh and exciting.

Variations & Swaps

Swap the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist.
Make them dairy-free by using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.
Mix in cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon for added heartiness.
Use chickpea flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the poppers a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to cook.

Can I freeze these poppers?
Yes! They freeze beautifully. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to reheat?
For the best results, reheat the poppers in the air fryer. This will restore their crispy texture. Just pop them in for a few minutes at 375°F until warmed through.

What can I serve with these poppers?
They pair well with a variety of dips, like ranch, BBQ, or even yogurt-based sauces. You can also serve them alongside salads, soups, or as part of a light meal.

What should I avoid when making these?
Be careful not to overmix your ingredients. This can make the poppers dense. Also, ensure your air fryer isn’t overcrowded; cooking in batches is better for that crispy finish.