Oh my goodness, you have to try these Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks! They’re my go-to when I need something crispy, cheesy, and secretly healthy-ish in minutes. I first made them when my niece refused to eat anything green – now she begs for them! The magic happens when broccoli gets all cozy with sharp cheddar in that hot air fryer, turning into golden sticks with the perfect crunch. My husband swipes them straight from the basket before they even hit the plate. Trust me, once you make a batch, you’ll understand why these disappeared at my last game night before the dip even made it to the table.
Oh my gosh, you have to try these Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks! They’re my go-to when I need something crispy, cheesy, and secretly healthy-ish in under 20 minutes. My kids actually beg for these – and that’s saying something when broccoli’s involved! I stumbled on this recipe one desperate afternoon when I needed to use up leftover broccoli, and now it’s our favorite after-school snack. The way the cheddar gets all melty inside while the outside turns golden and crisp? Absolute magic. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be hooked just like we are.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
Let me tell you why these little sticks are about to become your new obsession:
- Crazy quick – From fridge to table in under 20 minutes when snack emergencies strike
- Perfectly crispy – That air fryer magic gives them an irresistible golden crunch
- Sneaky healthy – You’re basically eating veggies, but they taste like cheesy heaven
- Kid-approved – My pickiest eaters gobble these up without a single “eww broccoli!”
- Party perfect – Disappear faster than chips at any gathering (I’ve tested this!)
Seriously, what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
Here’s all you need for these addictive little sticks – simple stuff you probably have already:
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Finely chopped (trust me, smaller pieces hold together better)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar – Sharp for maximum flavor, mild works too
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Plain or panko for extra crunch
- 1 large egg – Our binding superstar
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder – The secret flavor booster
- 1/4 tsp each salt & pepper – Basic but essential!
See? Nothing fancy – just good stuff that transforms into crispy magic.
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
Okay, let’s get these crispy little wonders going! Here’s exactly how I make them (with all my messy trial-and-error lessons baked right in):
- Fire up that air fryer – Preheat to 375°F (190°C) while you mix. This gives them that perfect instant crisp when they hit the basket.
- Mix it all up – In a big bowl, toss together the broccoli, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and spices. Get in there with your hands – it’s the best way to make sure everything’s evenly distributed.
- Shape your sticks – Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into logs. If they feel too wet, add a sprinkle more breadcrumbs. Too dry? A tiny splash of water helps.
- Air fry magic time – Arrange sticks in a single layer with space between (they need breathing room!). Cook 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden and crispy on all sides.
That’s it! The hardest part is waiting while that amazing cheesy-broccoli smell fills your kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
After burning (oops) and undercooking (double oops) many batches, here are my can’t-skip tips:
- Spritz lightly with oil – Just a quick spray makes them extra golden and crunchy.
- Don’t crowd the basket – They’ll steam instead of crisp if packed too tight.
- Let them cool a minute – They firm up as they rest (and won’t burn your fingers!).
Variations for Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
The beauty of these sticks? You can totally make them your own! Try swapping the cheddar for pepper jack if you like some heat, or mix in a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth. My neighbor adds crumbled bacon (genius!), and my kids love when I toss in some corn kernels for sweetness. The basic recipe is just your starting point – have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
These golden sticks are irresistible straight from the basket, but oh boy – wait till you try them dunked in cool ranch or warm marinara! I usually plan for 2-3 sticks per person, but trust me, you’ll want to make extra. They disappear faster than you can say “cheesy broccoli goodness!”
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If by some miracle you have leftovers (rare in my house!), pop them in an airtight container for 2-3 days. To bring back that magic crisp, just reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes – good as new!
Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks
Here’s the scoop on what you’re eating (because yes, these are actually good for you!): Each 2-stick serving packs about 120 calories, with 6g protein and 1g fiber from that sneaky broccoli. The cheddar gives you calcium, while keeping saturated fat reasonable at 4g per serving.
Now, full disclosure – your exact numbers might dance around a bit depending on cheese brands or how big you make your sticks. But compared to most cheesy snacks? These are basically health food that tastes like a treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out alllll that excess water (I use a clean kitchen towel) so your sticks don’t get soggy. Frozen works in a pinch, but fresh gives the best texture.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
You bet! Bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined sheet for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t get quite as crispy, but still delicious – just spritz with oil first.
Why do my sticks keep falling apart?
Two likely culprits: 1) Not enough egg (add another yolk if needed) or 2) Overcrowding the air fryer – they need space to set properly before you flip them.
Can I make these ahead?
For sure! Mix the dough and shape sticks up to a day ahead, then air fry when ready. They’re best fresh but reheat beautifully – just 2-3 minutes in the air fryer brings back the crunch.
Share Your Experience
Did you make these cheesy broccoli sticks? I’d love to hear how they turned out for you – drop a comment below and tell me your favorite way to enjoy them!
Print
10-Minute Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheddar Sticks [Kid-Approved]
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Yield: 12 sticks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy air-fried broccoli and cheddar sticks, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Shape mixture into small sticks.
- Place sticks in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray lightly with oil before air frying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American