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