Let me tell you about my latest kitchen obsession: Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes! I’ve made these little gems so many times that I’ve lost count, and every single time, they disappear faster than I can pull them out of the air fryer! Imagine perfectly crispy little bites filled with cheesy, broccoli goodness — they’re a total game-changer for appetizers or quick snacks. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these croquettes come together in no time.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish — they fit any occasion!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and fresh broccoli creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
- Visually Appealing: Golden and crispy on the outside, they look as good as they taste — perfect for impressing guests!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these in advance and pop them in the air fryer when you need them, making entertaining a breeze.
The Secret to Perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes
The secret to achieving that perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the inside creamy is all in the air frying technique! By using a light coating of oil and ensuring the croquettes are evenly spaced in the fryer, you’ll get that golden brown color without the guilt of deep frying. My insider tip? Don’t skip the chilling step after forming the croquettes. Letting them chill for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking, ensuring a fantastic texture that you and your guests will rave about!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“These croquettes are absolutely amazing! I made them for a party, and they were gone in minutes! Everyone asked for the recipe!” – Sarah J.
“I can’t believe how easy they are to make! They turned out perfectly crispy, and my kids devoured them!” – Mike T.
“I’ve made these Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes twice this week! They are a hit with my family, and I love how healthy they are!” – Emma R.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta for a unique taste.
- Veggie Packed: Sneak in some finely chopped carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Bonus: Try serving them with a homemade dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo for an extra flavor punch!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe? Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the croquette mixture.
How long can I store leftover croquettes? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer to restore their crispiness!
Can I bake these instead of air frying? Absolutely! Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? You can use crushed cornflakes, panko, or even ground oats for a gluten-free option!
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, place the uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.
- Serve hot, ideally with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!
Perfect Occasions for Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes
- Game Day Gatherings
- After-School Snacks for Kids
- Casual Dinner Parties
- Potluck Contributions
- Holiday Appetizers
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me through this delicious journey! Now, let’s dive into the recipe that will make you the star of your next meal.
Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding in some diced onions or bell peppers to the mixture. This not only enhances the taste but also adds color to your croquettes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by steaming the broccoli until it’s tender but still vibrant green, about 3-4 minutes. Once done, chop it finely. This step is crucial because the broccoli needs to be small enough to blend well with the other ingredients while still providing that delightful texture.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape. If it’s too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help it bind together.
Step 3: Form the Croquettes
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. This is where you can get creative with the shape! Remember to keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Once formed, place them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps them firm up and hold their shape while cooking.
Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is an important step — it helps achieve that golden brown exterior. While it’s heating up, lightly spray the croquettes with olive oil. This will give them that irresistible crispiness we all love.
Step 5: Air Fry the Croquettes
Place the croquettes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once they’re done, carefully remove the croquettes and let them cool for a minute before serving. They’re best enjoyed hot and fresh from the air fryer, ideally with a dipping sauce. You’ll be amazed at the deliciousness that awaits!
Nutritional Information: Each croquette contains approximately 80 calories, 4g protein, 5g fat, and 8g carbohydrates.
Final Thoughts
I can’t stress enough how special these Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Croquettes are! They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor — perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking
