These Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are packed with tasty broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy coating. Perfect for a fun snack or appetizer!
If you love cheese and veggies together, you’ll adore these poppers! I always keep a batch on hand; they disappear faster than I can say “Let’s eat!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for that vibrant green color and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works too—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, go for mild cheddar. You can also use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little heat and extra creaminess.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and helps bind everything together. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create that lovely crispy texture. You can swap them with regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be quite as crunchy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a good alternative too!
How Do You Make Sure Your Poppers Stay Together While Frying?
Keeping your poppers intact during frying is crucial, and here’s how you can ensure they don’t fall apart:
- Chill the formed balls: The chilling step is essential for firming up the cheese and broccoli mixture. Don’t skip it!
- Use cold ingredients: Cold ingredients help keep the mixture firm and prevent the poppers from becoming too soft before frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the oil: Fry in batches! Adding too many poppers at once drops the oil temperature, making them stick together.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy and delicious broccoli cheddar poppers every time!
How to Make Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Coating:
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For Garnish:
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for chilling the poppers. Then you’ll have around 10-15 minutes for frying them. So, all in all, expect to spend about an hour before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the chopped broccoli florets and blanch for about 2 minutes, just until they’re tender. Drain the broccoli and then pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is important for the texture!
2. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are evenly combined and creamy.
3. Form the Poppers:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture! Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Once formed, place the balls on a tray and chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
4. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
While the poppers are chilling, prepare a dredging station. Use three shallow bowls: put flour in the first, beat the egg and pour it into the second, and pour panko breadcrumbs into the third. This will make coating the poppers super easy!
5. Coat the Poppers:
Take each chilled broccoli ball and roll it in the flour first. Make sure it’s coated well, then dip it into the egg, letting the excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, covering it evenly. Set the coated popper aside on a tray and repeat until all are coated.
6. Fry the Poppers:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated broccoli cheddar poppers in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once golden, use a slotted spoon to remove the poppers from the oil and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
8. Final Touches:
Serve your crispy broccoli cheddar poppers hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if you like. They pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce—enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your deliciously crispy on the outside, cheesy & tender inside Broccoli Cheddar Poppers!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help keep your poppers from becoming soggy.
How Can I Make These Poppers Healthier?
To make them healthier, consider baking instead of frying! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated poppers on a lined baking sheet, and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Broccoli Cheddar Poppers?
These poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces! Some popular options include ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli. You can also serve them with a simple yogurt-based dip for a lighter touch.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness!
