These Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are tasty little bites packed with fresh broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese. They’re perfect for a snack or a side dish!
What’s great is how crispy they get on the outside and cheesy on the inside. I love munching on these while watching a movie—they’re too good to share! 🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is essential, as it gives the poppers a nice texture and flavor. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out extra moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite because it adds a rich flavor. You could switch it up with mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the poppers their crunchy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but I recommend adding a pinch of seasoning to them for more flavor.
Onions & Garlic: These add a wonderful depth of flavor. If you want a milder taste, consider using green onions or even shallots.
How Do I Blitz My Broccoli Just Right?
Blanching the broccoli is crucial for flavor and texture. This short cooking time makes the broccoli vibrant and tender without losing its crunch. Here’s how to get it right:
- Boil water and add chopped broccoli for only 2 minutes.
- Immediately drain and run under cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps the bright green color.
- Be sure to squeeze out any excess water; too much moisture can make the poppers soggy. Use a kitchen towel or cheesecloth for this!
What’s the Best Way to Fry Them for Extra Crispiness?
Getting that golden, crispy exterior is all about the frying technique:
- Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C); a kitchen thermometer is handy here.
- Fry in batches to avoid crowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- If they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat a bit. You want a perfect balance!
Enjoy making these delicious bites that are perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in! They’re always a hit with friends and family!
Delicious Broccoli Cheddar Poppers Homemade Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes for prep and another 15 minutes for frying, which totals around 35 minutes. You’ll have crispy and delicious Broccoli Cheddar Poppers ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the finely chopped broccoli and blanch for just 2 minutes until it’s slightly tender but still bright green. Once done, drain the broccoli and rinse it under cold water immediately. This stops the cooking process. Make sure to squeeze out any excess water using a kitchen towel or cheesecloth—this is important to prevent soggy poppers!
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix it well so everything is evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add in the eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you like it). Stir everything together until the mixture holds together. It should be thick enough to form into balls.
4. Add the Breadcrumbs:
Now, gently fold in the panko breadcrumbs to the mixture. If it feels too wet to hold its shape, sprinkle in a little more breadcrumbs until it reaches a good consistency.
5. Form the Poppers:
Using your hands, take some of the mixture and shape it into golf ball-sized balls. You can make them a bit smaller or larger based on your preference!
6. Coat the Poppers:
Pour some extra panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish and roll each broccoli ball lightly in the breadcrumbs to coat them evenly. This will give them a nice crispy texture!
7. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). You’ll want enough oil to submerge the poppers for frying.
8. Fry the Poppers:
Fry the broccoli cheddar poppers in batches for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy all over. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Broccoli Cheddar Poppers with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, sour cream, or a creamy mustard sauce all work wonderfully. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and flavorful bites!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to fully thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into the batter. This will help prevent sogginess in your poppers.
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying for a Healthier Option?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well With These Poppers?
These poppers are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces! Some popular choices include ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic aioli, or a zesty mustard sauce. Get creative and try your favorites!
