Description
These Mozzarella-Stuffed Crispy Baked Onion Rings are a delicious, healthier twist on the classic appetizer. With a gooey mozzarella center and a crispy golden-brown coating, these baked onion rings are perfect for parties, game nights, or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large onions (sweet or yellow)
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into thin strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion Rings
- Peel and slice the onions into ½-inch thick rings.
- Separate the rings and pair them up, placing a smaller ring inside a larger one with space in between.
2. Stuff with Mozzarella
- Insert a strip of mozzarella between each onion ring pair, pressing gently to secure.
3. Set Up the Breading Station
- Place flour in one shallow bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a third bowl, mix panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan (if using).
4. Coat the Onion Rings
- Dredge each stuffed onion ring in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
- Coat in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place coated rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake Until Crispy
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray onion rings with cooking spray.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let onion rings cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free panko.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mozzarella-stuffed onion rings Baked onion rings Crispy onion rings Cheesy onion rings Healthy onion rings