Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp is best)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika (optional)

Directions

1. Prep the broccoli Steam or microwave broccoli for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Let cool, then chop very finely. Tip: Squeeze out excess moisture with a paper towel — this helps them crisp!
2. Mix it up In a bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Form poppers Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls or gently flatten into small patties.
4. Air fry Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) Lightly spray basket with oil Place poppers in a single layer (don’t overcrowd) Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy
5. Serve hot Let cool slightly (cheese will be molten!) and enjoy