These Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are delicious little bites packed with cheesy goodness and healthy broccoli. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside!
Who knew veggies could taste this good? I always find myself reaching for just one more. 🥦💚 You can whip these up easily and freeze some for later—double win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli can work too; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can swap it for mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for variety.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the mixture. Neufchâtel cheese is a good lower-fat alternative if you’re looking to reduce calories without losing too much flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch, but if you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs will work too. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binder. If you need a vegan alternative, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg).
How Do I Shape the Poppers Without Making a Mess?
Shaping the broccoli cheddar mixture into uniform balls can be tricky, but here are some tips to make it easier:
- Ensure your mixture is well-combined and sticky. If it’s too wet, chill it for a bit to firm up.
- Keep a bowl of water nearby to wet your hands; this will help prevent sticking as you roll the balls.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to help measure uniform sizes. This will ensure even cooking too.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect poppers ready to fry without any mess!
Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch or your choice of dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes of preparation time and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying, making it a quick and delicious snack option! Be sure to allow extra time for chilling the mixture if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by lightly steaming the chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl or a steaming basket for about 2-3 minutes until just tender. Once done, drain the broccoli and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This ensures your poppers stay crispy!
2. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli with the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined into a sticky mixture.
3. Shape the Poppers:
Crack one egg into the broccoli mixture and mix thoroughly to incorporate. Use your hands to shape the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels soft and difficult to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm it up.
4. Prepare for Frying:
In a shallow bowl, beat the remaining egg. In another bowl, place extra panko breadcrumbs for coating. Dip each broccoli cheddar ball first into the beaten egg, then coat evenly with the panko breadcrumbs to ensure they have a crispy exterior.
5. Fry the Poppers:
Heat about 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the poppers in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once fried, remove the poppers from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color. Serve hot with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy these crispy, cheesy broccoli bites as a delightful snack or appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your poppers by adding cooked bacon bits, different types of cheese, or even finely chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.