Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of melting cheese and roasted vegetables filled the air—immediate comfort. These Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are like little bursts of joy, combining the incredible crunch of air-fried goodness with the gooey, rich flavor of cheese. Not only are they quick to whip up, making them a perfect snack for busy days, but they also provide a wholesome alternative to your usual guilty pleasures. Packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli and a delightful cheesy filling, these poppers serve as a fantastic option for anyone looking to swap fast food for something nurturing and satisfying. Ready to embark on an adventure of creamy texture and crispy delight? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Poppers So Irresistible? Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese creates a dreamy filling that’s hard to resist. Quick & Easy Prep: With straightforward steps, these poppers come together in no time, perfect for snacking on busy evenings. Healthier Choice: Air frying cuts down on oil, giving you a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor! Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair them with your favorite sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor. For more tasty ideas, check out Butter Cornbread Poppers or Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Fun for All Ages: These poppers are a hit with kids and adults alike, turning any gathering into a celebration of flavor! Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Ingredients • Get ready to create a delightful snack! For the Filling Fresh Broccoli Florets – Offers essential nutrients and a vibrant flavor; fresh is best for texture. Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a rich, tangy flavor that melts beautifully for a gooey filling. Cream Cheese – Binds the ingredients for a creamy consistency; opt for full-fat for optimal flavor. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty depth that enhances the cheesy goodness of the poppers. Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent, keeping everything together perfectly. Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish, making it more savory. Onion Powder – Complements the garlic powder, providing a nice depth of flavor. Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors to life in these crispy air fryer broccoli cheddar poppers. For the Coating Panko Breadcrumbs – Offers a lighter and crunchier texture than traditional breadcrumbs; for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko. Cooking Spray – Helps achieve a crispy exterior when air frying; don’t skip this step! Dive into making these Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers and savor a guilt-free snack that’s bursting with flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil and blanch the fresh broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green. Quickly transfer the florets to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, then drain and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid sogginess. This step ensures your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers have the best texture. Step 2: Mix the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, grated parmesan, and egg. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful filling. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This creamy, cheesy mixture will be the heart of your delicious poppers. Step 3: Shape the Poppers Using your hands, scoop out portions of the filling and roll them into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Make sure they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined plate as you prepare to coat them. These formed poppers are the star of your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers. Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs Take the prepared poppers and roll each one in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated for a satisfying crunch. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the poppers to help them adhere, creating a beautiful golden crust when cooked. This crunchy layer is what will make your poppers irresistible! Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures that your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers will crisp up nicely from the moment they enter the basket, locking in their delightful flavor and texture. Step 6: Air Fry Carefully place the coated poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray with cooking spray for optimal crispiness and air fry for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and they should turn golden brown and crunchy, creating the perfect texture you’ve been craving. Step 7: Serve Once cooked, allow the poppers to cool slightly for about 2 minutes to firm up. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or garlic aioli, to enhance the wonderful flavors of your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite! Storage Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Fridge: Store leftover poppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preventing moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the poppers individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months. Reheating: To regain that crispy texture, reheat the frozen poppers in the air fryer at 380°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Serving Idea: These poppers are best enjoyed fresh but can be a delicious snack even after storage, just remember to follow these tips for your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers! Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these poppers to suit your taste! Gluten-Free: Substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a delightful crunch without gluten. Cheesy Twist: Try mixing in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor upgrade that’s uniquely yours. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the filling for a pop of heat that spice lovers will adore. Veggie Boost: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and colorful presentation. Herbed Flavors: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a burst of fresh flavor that complements the cheese perfectly. Baking Alternative: Want to skip the air fryer? Bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden for a different texture. Sweet Surprise: Add a hint of garlic and onion for a sweeter flavor balance; this unexpected twist can elevate your poppers beautifully. Dipping Delight: Serve with an exciting array of dips like spicy sriracha mayo or tangy honey mustard, enhancing the flavor experience. Exploring these variations will take your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers to new heights—there’s always a delightful twist waiting for you! What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Elevate your snacking experience with these delightful accompaniments that bring out the best in your poppers! Creamy Garlic Dip: This rich garlic-infused dip pairs beautifully, enhancing the poppers’ cheesy flavor without overpowering them. Zesty Ranch Dressing: The cool, herby notes of ranch provide a refreshing contrast, making each bite feel like a celebration in your mouth! Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who crave heat, this tangy mayo adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the cheese. Light Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A fresh salad can cut through the creaminess, offering a burst of brightness and crunch with each popper. Savory Honey Mustard: Sweet yet savory, this sauce pairs perfectly, adding depth to your snacking experience without overwhelming the taste buds. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink complements the savory poppers nicely, adding a lovely fizziness to your snack time. Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness, creating a balanced plate that pairs well with the poppers’ rich flavors. These pairings not only enhance the flavors but also transform your air-fried snack into a full, delightful meal experience! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during their busy week! You can prepare the filling, combining the blanched broccoli, cheeses, and egg, up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can shape the poppers and coat them in breadcrumbs up to 3 days ahead—store them in the fridge for maximum freshness. To ensure they maintain their crunch, lightly spray them with cooking spray just before air frying. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious poppers, simply air fry them directly from the fridge for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy—it’s a hassle-free way to serve up a delightful snack! Expert Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Dry the Broccoli: Ensure your broccoli is completely dry post-blanching. Excess moisture can lead to soggy poppers instead of the desired crispy texture. Preheat Is Key: Do not skip the preheating step! It’s essential for ensuring your Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers cook evenly and develop that golden crunch. Uniform Size: Aim for consistent sizes when shaping the poppers. This ensures that they cook evenly, giving you that satisfying crunch throughout. Don’t Overcrowd: Place the poppers in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding. Cooking them in batches helps maintain their crispiness and prevents steaming. Use Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the poppers before air frying. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful, crispy exterior that makes these snacks irresistible. Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer to restore their crunchy texture! Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Recipe FAQs What type of broccoli is best for this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are preferred as they provide essential nutrients and a vibrant flavor. If fresh is unavailable, you can use frozen broccoli, but it may alter the texture slightly. How should I store leftover broccoli cheddar poppers? For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps to keep them fresh, but for the best taste and texture, I recommend consuming them as soon as possible! Can I freeze Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers? Yes! To freeze, arrange the poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 380°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until they’re crispy. Why are my poppers not getting crispy? Very! The key to achieving that desirable crunch is ensuring the broccoli is thoroughly dried after blanching and preheating your air fryer. Additionally, make sure you don’t overcrowd the basket; give each popper space to breathe and crisp up properly! Are these poppers suitable for anyone with gluten allergies? The Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers can definitely cater to gluten-free diets! Just swap regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko, and you’ll have a delicious snack that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities. What if I have a cheese allergy or dislike cheese? If you’re avoiding cheese, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to maintain the creamy texture. For flavor, you could add nutritional yeast for a cheesy essence without the allergens, and perhaps some mashed avocado for creaminess! Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers for Guilt-Free Snacking These Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are a healthy, delicious snack that combines broccoli and cheese for a guilt-free indulgence. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 2 minutes minsTotal Time 27 minutes mins Servings: 4 poppersCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets Blanched and chopped1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Shredded4 oz Cream Cheese Full-fat recommended1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese1 large Egg Beaten1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Onion Powder1 teaspoon Salt1/2 teaspoon PepperFor the Coating1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free for a gluten-free option1 tablespoon Cooking Spray For air frying Equipment Air FryerMixing bowlParchment paper Method Cooking StepsBring a pot of water to a rolling boil and blanch the fresh broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green. Transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking, then drain and pat dry.In a mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, grated parmesan, and egg. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.Scoop portions of the filling and roll into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place on a parchment-lined plate.Roll each popper in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.Place the coated poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray and air fry for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.Allow the poppers to cool for about 2 minutes before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Nutrition Serving: 1popperCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
