Description
Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are bite-sized snacks featuring fresh broccoli florets combined with sharp cheddar cheese, coated in a golden, crunchy panko breadcrumb crust. Perfectly balancing crunch and creamy cheesy goodness, these poppers make an ideal appetizer or snack for family gatherings, game days, or weeknight treats. They incorporate nutrient-rich broccoli, simple ingredients, and can be customized for various dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Coating Stations
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For Cooking
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for frying or baking
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli and cheese: Steam or blanch broccoli florets briefly until just tender, then finely chop them. Grate sharp cheddar cheese and mix it well with the broccoli in a bowl to combine evenly.
- Make the coating stations: Set up three shallow bowls—one with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika for added flavor.
- Form the poppers: Take small spoonfuls of the broccoli and cheddar mixture and shape into bite-sized balls or patties, pressing gently to hold shape without packing too tightly.
- Coat each popper: Dip each ball first into the flour mixture, coating thoroughly, then into the egg wash, and finally roll generously in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs to get a crispy finish.
- Cook to golden perfection: Fry the poppers in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, or bake them on a greased sheet pan at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
- Drain and serve: Place cooked poppers on a paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil. Serve warm immediately for best taste and crunch.
Notes
- Dry the broccoli thoroughly after steaming or blanching to prevent sogginess.
- Chill the broccoli-cheese mixture before shaping for better binding.
- Do not overcrowd the pan or baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- For extra crunch, double-dip the poppers by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating.
- Serve poppers right out of the fryer or oven for optimal texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 poppers
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: broccoli cheddar poppers, crispy broccoli bites, cheesy snacks, appetizer, party food, kid-friendly snack, gluten-free snack
