Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are cheesy, crunchy bites filled with delicious broccoli goodness. Perfect as a snack or party treat, they’re sure to make everyone smile!
These tasty little poppers are a great way to sneak in some veggies. I love how easy they are to make—just mix, shape, and bake. Plus, they disappear faster than I can make them! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star here! If you’re short on time, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before chopping.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or even a pepper cheese for a spicier kick. Parmesan adds richness; feel free to substitute with Romano if that’s what you have.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are crunchier, but regular breadcrumbs work fine too. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Eggs: To make this recipe vegan, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, let it sit briefly). Or, try a commercial egg replacement.
How Do I Get My Poppers Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, follow these tips:
- Use cold oil for frying; it will help create a better crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; give your poppers space so they cook evenly!
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the poppers—about 350°F (175°C) is ideal, and use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Allow the cooked poppers to drain on paper towels to keep them crispy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect broccoli cheddar poppers that are crunchy on the outside and cheesy on the inside!
Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Homemade Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Marinara or your favorite dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and enjoyable! You’ll need about 30 minutes of preparation time and roughly 15 minutes for frying the poppers. From start to finish, you can have these delicious bites ready in about 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Begin by steaming or blanching the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes. You want them tender but still bright green. Once done, drain them well and chop them finely. To avoid soggy poppers, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until accurately mixed.
3. Add the Binders:
In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs to the mixture, stirring thoroughly until you achieve a sticky, moldable consistency. If the mixture seems too loose, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds together well.
4. Shape the Poppers:
Scoop out small portions of the mixture, around 1-2 tablespoons, and roll them into bite-sized balls or nuggets. For better adhesion, lightly dust each popper with flour.
5. Coat the Poppers:
Set up a breading station with a bowl of beaten eggs and a bowl of breadcrumbs. First, dip each broccoli ball into the egg, then coat it fully with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy texture, consider double-dipping by repeating the process with the egg and breadcrumbs.
6. Fry the Poppers:
Heat about 1-2 inches of cooking oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden and crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Arrange your hot broccoli cheddar poppers on a serving plate and sprinkle them with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for that extra deliciousness!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy broccoli bites fresh and hot for the best flavor and texture!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping and using in the recipe. This helps maintain the right texture in your poppers!
How Do I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the poppers up to the shaping step and then refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just take them out and fry them as directed. This is great for meal prep or parties!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps restore their crispiness!
Can I Bake the Poppers Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the shaped poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. It’s a healthier option!
