Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings are a crispy, gooey, and cheesy twist on the classic onion ring. These delicious snacks feature sweet onion rings stuffed with melted mozzarella cheese, breaded and fried to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or a fun side dish, these onion rings will satisfy both your craving for crispy crunch and creamy cheese!
Short Description
Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings are a crispy and cheesy appetizer featuring gooey mozzarella cheese stuffed inside crunchy onion rings. Perfect for snacking or serving at parties, these golden delights will impress your guests.
Key Ingredients
- 2 large onions
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Tools Needed
- Knife and cutting board
- Bowl for dredging
- Shallow bowls for flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels (for draining oil)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings, about 1/2-inch wide. Separate the onion rings and set aside the larger rings, which will hold the cheese. Save the smaller inner rings for another use or discard.
Step 2: Stuff the Onion Rings
Take each large onion ring and stuff the center with shredded mozzarella cheese. You can use a spoon to press the cheese inside the ring. Repeat with all the larger onion rings. Be generous with the cheese, but don’t overstuff to prevent the cheese from spilling out while frying.
Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Stations
In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Coat the Onion Rings
Dip each stuffed onion ring into the flour mixture, making sure it’s well coated. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Make sure each ring is fully covered to ensure a crispy exterior.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat. Alternatively, use a deep fryer if you have one. The oil should be hot, but not smoking—about 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Fry the Onion Rings
Carefully place the coated onion rings into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the rings and remove them once they’re cooked.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Place the cooked onion rings on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara or ranch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy Delight – The gooey mozzarella inside the crispy onion ring makes each bite heavenly and satisfying.
- Crispy & Crunchy – The panko breadcrumbs ensure a crisp, golden exterior that contrasts perfectly with the melted cheese inside.
- Fun Appetizer – These mozzarella-stuffed onion rings are a fun and unique twist on a classic appetizer that will impress everyone.
- Customizable – You can add extra seasonings or try different types of cheese for a personalized touch.
Tips & Variations
- Use Different Cheese – While mozzarella is classic, you can try stuffing the rings with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend for a new flavor experience.
- Season the Cheese – Add herbs or spices to the mozzarella before stuffing to enhance the flavor. A bit of Italian seasoning or chili flakes would work beautifully.
- Baking Option – For a lighter version, bake the stuffed onion rings in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Storage Tips
- Store Leftovers – If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven to crisp them back up.
- Freezing – Freeze the breaded, stuffed onion rings before frying for up to 1 month. Fry directly from the freezer for a quick snack.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bread the onion rings ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to fry.
Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute with crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers for a similar crunchy coating.
Can I use a different kind of onion?
While large sweet onions like Vidalia are ideal, you can use other varieties of onions, though the flavor may be a bit stronger.
Final Thoughts
Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings are the perfect fusion of crispy and cheesy goodness, making them a must-try for any onion ring fan. Whether served as an appetizer or a fun side dish, these savory bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. The combination of crunchy breading and gooey mozzarella creates an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist!