Crispy Cheesy Onion Rings
(A gooey, crunchy twist on classic onion rings!)
These cheese-stuffed onion rings are battered, fried (or baked) until golden, and ooze melted goodness with every bite. Perfect as a game-day snack or indulgent side!
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
For the Onion Rings:
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2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Spanish)
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella (or cheddar, pepper jack)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
For the Batter:
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1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
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1 large egg
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1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crunch)
For Frying:
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Vegetable oil (for deep-frying)
(Optional: Ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara for dipping!)
Instructions
1. Prep the Onions
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Slice onions into ½-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and pat dry.
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Take two rings of similar size, sandwich them with shredded cheese in the middle, pressing gently. Repeat for all rings.
2. Set Up Breading Station
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Flour mix: In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Wet mix: Whisk buttermilk and egg in another bowl.
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Coating: Mix panko and Parmesan in a third bowl.
3. Bread the Rings
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Roll each cheese-stuffed ring in flour mix → dip in buttermilk mix → coat with panko mix, pressing to adhere.
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Place on a tray and freeze for 15 minutes (helps cheese stay intact while frying).
4. Fry (or Bake)
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Deep-fry: Heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
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Air-fry: Spray with oil, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Bake: At 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping once.
5. Serve Hot!
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Sprinkle with salt right after frying. Serve with dips of choice.
Tips for Success
✔ Use cold cheese—it melts slower, preventing leaks.
✔ Double-coat for extra crunch: Dip in buttermilk and breadcrumbs twice.
✔ No buttermilk? Use yogurt thinned with milk.
Why You’ll Love These
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Next-level crunch with a melty cheese surprise inside.
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Customizable—add cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for flavor.
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Kid-approved (and great for parties!).
Pair with burgers or enjoy as a snack! Let me know if you’d like a lighter version. 😋