These Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are bite-sized treats that are cheesy and packed with green goodness. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!
Honestly, who can resist these delicious little bites? I love serving them with a dipping sauce they just taste even better! Perfect for sneaking in some veggies, right? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are a must for this recipe. They give a great texture and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can work, just make sure to thaw it and drain excess water.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a really nice flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a creamier result.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely nuttiness. You can use grated Pecorino Romano as a substitute if you’re looking for something sharper.
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for extra crunchiness, but regular breadcrumbs are fine too. For a gluten-free version, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch When Frying?
Achieving that crispy texture is key! Here are some steps to follow for perfect frying:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (350°F or 175°C). A kitchen thermometer is handy here.
- Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy poppers.
- Let the poppers rest on paper towels after frying to catch excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Homemade Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
For Frying:
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 30 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. After frying, allow a few minutes for draining and cooling. What you get are deliciously crispy bites that will be ready to munch on in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by finely chopping the broccoli florets. If you want to enhance the texture, you can blanch them briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Just drain them well and pat dry to remove excess moisture, which is important for the next steps.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and the broccoli is evenly coated with cheese and seasoning.
3. Prepare for Breading:
In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs until they are mixed well. On another plate, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. This will be your assembly line for coating the poppers.
4. Form the Poppers:
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, take a scoop of the broccoli mixture and form it into bite-sized balls, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Be sure to compact the mixture well to help them hold their shape.
5. Coat the Poppers:
Take each ball and first dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Then roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s completely coated. This will give you that lovely crispy outer layer we want!
6. Fry the Poppers:
Heat about 1 to 2 inches of cooking oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Allow the oil to reach around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the balls in the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
7. Drain and Garnish:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the poppers from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Once they are drained, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch!
8. Serve:
These delicious Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are best served warm. Enjoy them with a dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite spicy sauce!
Dig in and enjoy your crispy, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers packed with tender broccoli goodness! They’re a fantastic way to indulge in a veggie-filled snack!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping. This will help prevent the poppers from being soggy.
How Can I Make These Poppers Gluten-Free?
To make these Broccoli Cheddar Poppers gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They will be just as delicious!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
