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Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers

Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers
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Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Poppers are crunchy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, packed with wholesome veggies for a nutritious and delicious snack. Ready in under 30 minutes, these golden, bite-sized poppers combine fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese with a crispy panko coating. Perfect as a kid-friendly appetizer or a crowd-pleasing snack, they bake to golden perfection and pair wonderfully with a variety of dips.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli, finely chopped
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil or cooking spray, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and finely chop the fresh broccoli florets into small pieces. Lightly steam the broccoli for 2-3 minutes to soften while preserving its vibrant color and nutrients. After steaming, squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent soggy poppers.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, grated sharp cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the Poppers: Using clean hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls or oval-shaped poppers. Press firmly to avoid crumbling and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  4. Bake for Crispy Perfection: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray or brush the poppers with olive oil to develop a golden, crispy crust. Bake the poppers for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes after baking. Serve them hot or warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or honey mustard for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Drain excess moisture from steamed broccoli to prevent soggy poppers.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for stronger flavor and better melting.
  • Leave space between poppers on the baking sheet for even crisping.
  • Flip poppers halfway through baking to achieve a golden crunch on both sides.
  • Taste test the mixture before shaping to adjust salt and seasonings to your preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar poppers, cheesy snacks, healthy appetizers, crunchy bites, gluten free snack, baked poppers

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