Cheesy Vegetable Bites (Air Fryer Recipe)
Cheesy Vegetable Bites are the perfect blend of nutritious vegetables and gooey cheese, all packed into bite-sized delights. Made effortlessly in the air fryer, they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These bites are great as snacks, appetizers, or even a fun way to get kids to eat their veggies!
Ingredients:
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, spinach, and corn) – finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
2 eggs (beaten)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little kick)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray (for air fryer)
Instructions:
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bind the Mixture:
Add the beaten eggs to the bowl and mix well until everything is combined.
Shape the Bites:
Using your hands, form small bite-sized balls or patties.
Arrange and Spray:
Place the bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Lightly spray with cooking spray for a golden finish.
Cook:
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve:
Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
Customizable Veggies: Use any vegetables you like or have on hand. Zucchini, broccoli, or peas work great!
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier twist.
Freezing Tip: These bites freeze well. Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Reheat in the air fryer when ready to serve.
Breadcrumb Substitutes: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Servings:
Makes approximately 20-24 bites (serves 4-6 as an appetizer or snack)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: ~150
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 250mg
Health Benefits:
Vegetable Power: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from mixed vegetables.
Protein & Calcium: Cheese provides essential protein and calcium for bone health.
Low Oil Cooking: Air frying requires minimal oil, making these bites a healthier snack option.
Kid-Friendly: A fun and delicious way to include more vegetables in your child’s diet.
Q&A:
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes.
Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegan cheese and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) as a binder.
Which dip goes best with these?
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavor boost.
Enjoy these Cheesy Vegetable Bites as a tasty snack or party appetizer!