Description
Broccoli Cheddar Poppers deliver crispy, golden, cheesy bites—the ultimate guilt-free snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (finely chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat or panko for extra crunch)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray (for air fryer)
Instructions
- Steam or microwave chopped broccoli for 1–2 minutes until slightly tender, then pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, egg, and seasonings. Mix until a thick, slightly sticky mixture forms.
- Shape the mixture into bite-sized poppers (about 1 inch wide).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and place poppers in a single layer.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Shake halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, garlic yogurt dip, or spicy mayo.
Notes
- Times may vary with different air fryer models.
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Extra-crunch option: pan-fry the poppers in a little oil for a golden crust.
- Best served warm the day they’re made.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popper (about 1 inch)
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, air fryer, cheesy broccoli bites, healthy snack, vegetarian appetizers