Cheesy Vegetable Bites (Air Fryer Recipe)

Cheesy Vegetable Bites (Air Fryer Recipe)

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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.

See also  Delicious Stuffed Turkey Breast

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!