Mediterranean Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers (That Wow Tastebuds!)
Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors—these Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are the kind of snack that disappears fast. Sharp cheddar brings richness, while garlic, oregano, lemon zest, and a touch of olive oil give them that sunny Mediterranean twist. Best of all, they’re air-fried, so you get irresistible crunch without deep frying. Perfect as an appetizer, party bite, or even a fun veggie-packed side.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time (optional but recommended): 10 minutes
Air Fry Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients (Makes about 14–16 poppers)
2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (steamed & cooled)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Zest of ½ lemon
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional Mediterranean Add-Ins
2 tablespoons crumbled feta
1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley or dill
Instructions
1. Prep the Broccoli
Lightly steam broccoli until just tender (about 3–4 minutes). Let cool completely, then finely chop. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel—this helps the poppers stay crispy.
2. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, chili flakes, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Fold in feta or herbs if using.
3. Shape the Poppers
Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mixture and roll into small balls or oval poppers. If the mixture feels soft, refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
4. Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat air fryer to 190°C / 375°F. Lightly spray the basket with oil. Arrange poppers in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply golden and crisp.
5. Serve Hot
Remove and let cool for 1–2 minutes. Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Quick Mediterranean Yogurt Dip (Optional)
Mix together:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- Salt to taste
Tips for WOW Results
- Extra crunch: Roll poppers lightly in panko before air frying.
- Cheese swap: Try a mix of cheddar + mozzarella for extra pull.
- Make ahead: Shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Kid-friendly: Skip chili flakes and add a touch more cheddar.
Final Thoughts
These Mediterranean Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers prove veggies can be crave-worthy. They’re cheesy, herby, lemony, and irresistibly crisp—perfect for entertaining or guilt-free snacking. One bite, and your tastebuds will absolutely agree: WOW.