Mozzarella-Stuffed Crispy Baked Onion Rings

Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these mozzarella-stuffed baked onion rings are an irresistible twist on the classic appetizer. Instead of frying, this version is baked to golden perfection, making it a slightly lighter but equally delicious alternative. With a crunchy breadcrumb coating and a melty cheese center, these onion rings are perfect for game nights, parties, or just a fun snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of deep-fried, reducing excess oil.
• Cheese-Stuffed Surprise: Melty mozzarella adds an indulgent twist.
• Crispy & Crunchy: A well-seasoned breadcrumb coating ensures the perfect crunch.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and an oven-baked method make this approachable.

Ingredients

• 2 large onions (yellow or white), cut into ½-inch thick rings
• 6 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut into smaller pieces to fit inside onion rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Cooking spray or oil spray

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Peel the onions and slice them into ½-inch thick rings. Separate them carefully.
3. Match smaller onion rings with larger ones, leaving just enough space to fit a piece of mozzarella in between.

Step 2: Stuff the Onion Rings

1. Cut the string cheese into pieces that fit inside the onion rings.
2. Place a piece of mozzarella between a smaller and larger onion ring, forming a stuffed ring.
3. Repeat with the remaining onion rings and cheese.

Step 3: Coat the Rings

1. Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Flour
   • Bowl 2: Whisked eggs with milk
   • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
2. Dip each stuffed onion ring into the flour, ensuring full coverage.
3. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Finally, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a firm coating.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Arrange the coated onion rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through for even baking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
• Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a kick.
• Different Cheese: Try stuffing with cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: Makes about 4 servings.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Flash-freeze the coated rings before baking, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed by pressing the breadcrumb coating firmly around the onion rings. Freezing them for 15 minutes before baking can also help.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can coat the rings and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these onion rings?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli pair wonderfully with them.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Deep-fry in 350°F (175°C) oil for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Why use panko breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

How do I make these extra crispy?

Spraying the coated rings with cooking oil and baking them on a wire rack can help maximize crispiness.

Can I use frozen onion rings instead?

Frozen onion rings won’t work well for stuffing but can be breaded the same way for a crunchy baked snack.

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of string cheese?

Yes, but fresh mozzarella has more moisture, so it may melt faster and leak out.

What type of onion works best?

Yellow or white onions are ideal as they have a mild yet slightly sweet flavor.

How do I prevent sogginess?

Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet and be sure to bake at a high temperature to keep the rings crispy.

Conclusion

Mozzarella-stuffed crispy baked onion rings take a classic snack to the next level with their gooey cheese center and crunchy coating. Whether you’re serving them for a party or just treating yourself, this baked version delivers all the flavor and texture of traditional fried onion rings—without the grease. Try them with different cheeses, seasonings, and dips to make them your own!

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