Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets. Boil a pot of water and blanch the florets for about 2-3 minutes to enhance their vibrant color and soften their texture. Drain the broccoli and let it cool for a moment before incorporating it into the mixture for the Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and egg. Use a fork or your hands to mix well, ensuring that all ingredients are uniformly distributed, which is essential for that delicious flavor in each Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Popper.

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into uniform balls or shape them into small patties. Aim for sizes that will cook evenly in the air fryer. This step ensures each popper has the perfect balance of crispy exterior and cheesy interior when they’re cooked.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it's preheating, lightly grease the basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to help the poppers achieve a crispy texture without sticking.

Once the air fryer is heated, arrange the formed poppers in a single layer in the basket. Fry the poppers for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside.

After cooking, let the poppers cool for a minute before serving. Serve your Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce.