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In recent years, air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods without sacrificing taste or texture. These versatile kitchen appliances have become a staple for home chefs looking to whip up delicious meals and snacks with ease. Among the myriad of recipes that have emerged, one dish stands out for its balance of flavor, nutrition, and crunch: Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers.

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Indulge in the deliciously healthy Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers, a perfect snack for any occasion. These bite-sized treats combine fresh broccoli with creamy cheddar and cream cheese, all enveloped in a light, crunchy panko coating. Ideal for movie nights, gatherings, or a quick bite, these poppers offer a satisfying contrast between crunchy exteriors and gooey interiors. Discover how to prepare, shape, and cook these delightful snacks for a guilt-free indulgence!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred for extra crunch)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions
 

Prep the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Drain and let cool. Once cooled, chop the broccoli into small pieces to make it easier to mix.

    Make the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and the chopped broccoli. Mix well. Add the beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.

      Shape the Poppers: Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball or shape it into a small patty. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

        Bread the Poppers: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each broccoli cheddar popper in the breadcrumbs to coat them evenly.

          Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

            Cook the Poppers: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush it with olive oil. Arrange the broccoli cheddar poppers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch (you may need to cook in batches). Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.

              Air Fry: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

                Serve: Once the poppers are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch or a spicy aioli.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4