Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the enchanting aroma of melted cheese wafted through the air, instantly igniting my anticipation for my latest culinary creation—Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers. These little bites of joy not only satisfy my cravings but also align with my quest for healthier snacking options. With their tender broccoli complementing the gooey, cheesy filling, these poppers boast a light crunch that manages to be both indulgent and guilt-free. Fortunately, they’re quick to whip up, making them the perfect appetizer for gatherings or an easy weeknight treat. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking to elevate your snacking game, these Broccoli Cheddar Poppers will surely delight your taste buds. Ready to dive into a unique twist on your classic snacking routine? Why are these poppers a must-try? Crispy and Crunchy: These Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are not just delightful bites; they provide a satisfying crunch with each nibble. Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy a cheesy snack without the extra calories, making this a healthier choice for any occasion. Quick to Make: With easy prep and cook times, you can whip these up in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in. Versatile Option: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses or spices to customize each batch. And if you love this recipe, why not explore more delicious snacks like our Broccoli Cheese Rounds? They’re guaranteed to impress at your next gathering! Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Ingredients For the Filling Fresh Broccoli Florets – Use fresh broccoli for optimal texture; avoid frozen for best results. Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds rich, tangy flavor and melts beautifully; substitute with mild cheddar for a less intense flavor. Cream Cheese – Binds the filling and contributes to a creamy texture; opt for full-fat for a richer taste. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor with nutty undertones; optional, but it adds depth to the poppers. Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent; for a vegan option, use a flaxseed meal egg substitute. For the Coating Panko Breadcrumbs – Ensures a crispy outer layer; prefer panko over traditional breadcrumbs for a lighter crunch. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust according to preference. For Seasoning Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Add essential seasoning and depth of flavor; adjust to taste as desired. For Cooking Cooking Spray – Essential for preventing sticking in the air fryer and helping achieve a crispy finish. With these ingredients, you’re set to create the ultimate Broccoli Cheddar Poppers that are not only delicious but also a healthier snack option! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Step 1: Prepare Broccoli Begin by blanching the fresh broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn a vibrant bright green. Once ready, quickly transfer the broccoli into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. After it cools down, pat the broccoli dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a crispy texture in your Broccoli Cheddar Poppers. Step 2: Mix Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and optional grated Parmesan for an extra flavor boost. Add the blanched broccoli, along with the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or spoon to mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated, creating a cheesy amalgamation that’s ready to be shaped into poppers. Step 3: Shape Poppers With your filling mixture at the ready, begin forming small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter, using your hands or an ice cream scoop for consistent sizing. As you shape the Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, make sure they hold together well, ensuring the cheesy filling is securely packed inside, setting the stage for delightful bites. Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs Next, pour the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each shaped popper in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated and well-covered. The panko will give the poppers their signature crispy outer layer once air-fried, making them irresistible as a light snack or appetizer. Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is crucial, as it ensures that the Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crispiness that everyone loves. Step 6: Air Fry Poppers Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the poppers in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray the tops of the poppers with cooking spray and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for consistent cooking. They’re done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are beautifully cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or sriracha mayo for an added layer of flavor, making for an excellent snack or appetizer. What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Elevate your snacking experience with delightful accompaniments that will complement each bite of these crispy, cheesy wonders. Creamy Garlic Dip: This rich, flavorful dip perfectly contrasts the crispy texture of the poppers, enhancing every crunchy bite. Fresh Garden Salad: A colorful salad bursting with veggies adds freshness and balances the richness of the poppers, making for a wholesome meal. Honey Mustard Sauce: The sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard will elevate the poppers, creating a delicious harmony of flavors with each dip. Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who enjoy a touch of heat, a slather of this spicy mayo brings an exciting kick to the cheesy goodness. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: The sweetness of roasted tomatoes provides a juicy burst that pairs wonderfully with the savory poppers, adding a pop of flavor. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, these noodles offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the poppers, creating a delightful plate. Sparkling Lemonade: A cool, refreshing drink, sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate beautifully, allowing the flavors of the poppers to shine. Chocolate Dipped Fruit: For dessert, indulge in chocolate-dipped strawberries or banana slices for a sweet ending to your crispy snacking adventure. Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Chill the Mixture: Allowing the filling to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator can help the poppers hold their shape better when cooking. Don’t Skip Blanching: Properly blanching the broccoli not only enhances color but also softens it for easier mixing. Ensure it’s fully cooled for the best texture in your Broccoli Cheddar Poppers. Panko Preference: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier coating that elevates the overall dish. Uniform Sizing: Aim for uniform-sized poppers when shaping them; this ensures even cooking and a consistent crunch in every bite. Avoid Overcrowding: When placing poppers in the air fryer, keep them in a single layer and avoid overcrowding to guarantee even cooking and crispy perfection. Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Variations Ready to put your own spin on these delightful bites? Let your culinary creativity flow! Cauliflower Swap: Substitute cauliflower florets for broccoli to experience a milder flavor with the same crispy satisfaction. Cheese Variety: Switch sharp cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda to create a playful blend that suits your taste preferences. Experimenting with cheese can elevate the poppers in unexpected ways. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko for a delightful crunch that accommodates gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a fun and fiery flavor boost; it’ll bring a zesty twist! Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill into the cheese mixture to introduce a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness. Zesty Lemon: Incorporate lemon zest into the filling for a bright and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the rich cheeses. Dipping Sauces: Elevate the experience by pairing these poppers with homemade sauces like garlic aioli, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for different flavors to savor! If you’re looking for more inspiration, try serving these poppers alongside our tasty Broccoli Cheese Rounds or pack some protein with a classic dipping sauce. There’s so much you can do—why not explore a few mixes and make them your own? Storage Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Fridge: Store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Poppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll last for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, simply place frozen or refrigerated poppers in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and regain their crispiness. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain quality and prevent spoilage. Make Ahead Options These Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the filling (broccoli, cheeses, and seasonings) and shape the poppers up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and prevent any moisture from making them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply coat them in panko breadcrumbs and air fry straight from the fridge—there’s no need to thaw! This allows you to save precious time on busy days while still enjoying a delicious homemade snack that’s just as crispy and flavorful as if made fresh. Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Recipe FAQs What type of broccoli should I use for the poppers? Absolutely, fresh broccoli florets are ideal for this recipe, as they provide the best texture and flavor. Avoid frozen broccoli, as it tends to become mushy and won’t hold up well during cooking. Look for florets that are vibrant green and firm, avoiding any that show dark spots or wilting. How can I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Poppers? To keep your delicious poppers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their taste and crispiness. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months this way! Can I freeze the poppers before cooking? How? Yes, you can certainly freeze the poppers before air frying! After shaping and coating them in panko breadcrumbs, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, air fry from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, adding an extra couple of minutes if necessary, until golden brown. What should I do if my poppers are falling apart while shaping? If you find the mixture is too loose to hold its shape, try refrigerating it for 30 minutes before shaping. The chilling process helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to mold. Additionally, ensure that the broccoli is patted dry after blanching, as excess moisture can lead to a soggy mixture. If necessary, a bit more cream cheese or breadcrumbs can help bind everything together. Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers for Guilt-Free Snacking Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are delightful bites that satisfy cravings while offering a healthier snacking option. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 57 minutes mins Servings: 4 poppersCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets Use fresh broccoli for optimal texture1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Adds rich flavor and melts beautifully4 oz Cream Cheese Opt for full-fat for a richer taste1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional1 large Egg For a vegan option, use a flaxseed meal egg substituteFor the Coating1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Prefer panko for a lighter crunchto taste Salt Adjust according to preferenceto taste Pepper Adjust according to preferenceFor Seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust to taste as desired1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adjust to taste as desiredFor Cookingas needed Cooking Spray For preventing sticking in the air fryer Equipment Air FryerMixing bowlShallow DishPotIce Bath Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by blanching the fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, blanched broccoli, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.Form small balls (1-2 inches in diameter) with the filling mixture, ensuring they hold together well.Roll each popper in panko breadcrumbs, covering them evenly.Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place poppers in a single layer and lightly spray the tops. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.Remove poppers and let cool slightly before serving warm with dipping sauces. Nutrition Serving: 1popperCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 0.5mg NotesAllowing the filling to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the poppers hold their shape better during cooking. Properly blanched broccoli enhances color and softens it for mixing. Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier coating. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!