Go Back
In today's fast-paced world, healthy snacking has become a vital aspect of maintaining a balanced diet. With the increasing awareness of nutrition and wellness, many people are seeking out snacks that are not only delicious but also nutritious. Enter the air fryer—a revolutionary kitchen appliance that has surged in popularity for its ability to produce crispy, flavorful meals with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. Among the myriad of recipes that can be concocted in this versatile gadget, Cheesy Crunchy Air Fryer Broccoli Bites stand out as a remarkable option for those looking to indulge in a guilt-free snack.

Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Bites with Cheese

Discover the delicious world of healthy snacking with Cheesy Crunchy Air Fryer Broccoli Bites. This simple recipe combines the goodness of broccoli with rich cheddar and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in a crispy coating thanks to panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for adults and kids, these bites are an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer, paired with your favorite dipping sauces for a satisfying and guilt-free snack!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 garlic clove, finely minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil spray (or any cooking spray)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Broccoli: Begin by thoroughly washing the broccoli florets under cold water. If the florets are large, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.

    Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2 minutes, which will help retain their vibrant color and tender texture. After two minutes, quickly transfer them to an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice water) to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and gently pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.

      Create the Cheese Mixture: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and the egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, forming a cheesy and sticky mixture.

        Incorporate Broccoli: Carefully add the blanched broccoli florets into the cheese mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the florets, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the cheesy blend.

          Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes, allowing it to reach the optimal cooking temperature.

            Shape and Spray: Using your hands or a scoop, form the cheesy broccoli mixture into small bites or patties, roughly 1-2 inches in size. Arrange these bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. If necessary, cook in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the bites with olive oil to promote a crispy texture.

              Air Fry: Place the basket in the air fryer and cook the broccoli bites at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the bites to ensure even crisping. Watch closely until they turn golden brown and crunchy.

                Serve: Upon completion, carefully take the crispy broccoli bites out of the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly for a minute or two before serving. They are at their best when enjoyed warm!

                  Dipping Sauce (Optional): For an exciting flavor boost, pair these bites with your favorite dipping sauce, such as creamy ranch, zesty marinara, or a spicy aioli!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 20 mins | 4 servings

                      Presentation Tips: Serve these delicious bites on a platter lined with parchment paper, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese to enhance their visual appeal.