Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Cheesy Onion Rings! Crispy on the outside, gooey with cheese on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. These aren’t your ordinary onion rings—they’re a next-level treat that combines two comfort food favorites into one delicious package.
Perfect for game day gatherings, weekend snacking, or whenever you need to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet onions and melty cheese encased in a golden, crunchy coating creates the ultimate crowd-pleasing finger food that disappears faster than you can make them!
Why You’ll Love This
- Double the deliciousness: combines classic onion rings with ooey-gooey melted cheese
- Achievable crunch factor: perfectly crispy exterior without deep-frying expertise
- Customizable: works with different cheese varieties to match your taste preferences
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Great make-ahead option: prep earlier in the day and bake when guests arrive
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, sliced into thick rings
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 2 cups cooking oil
- Toothpicks for securing
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
- Pair two slices of onion rings – one larger than the other with space between them when the smaller is placed inside the larger. Slice mozzarella cheese to fit the space between the rings. Place cheese between the onion pieces and secure with a toothpick.
- Heat oil in a deep cooking pot. Combine all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) in a bowl and mix well. Dredge all onion rings in the dry mixture and place on a wire rack.
- Combine milk and beaten egg, mix well. Pour this mixture into the bowl with remaining dry ingredients and mix until a batter is formed.
- Dip the onion rings in the batter mixture, then place back on the wire rack to let excess batter drip. Coat with Panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry one side until golden brown, then turn over and fry the opposite side until golden brown.
- Remove toothpicks and serve warm with marinara sauce. Share and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Cheese swap: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or smoked gouda for a deeper flavor profile
- For extra crispiness: Double-coat the rings in panko before baking
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes for an even crispier result
- Make it spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the flour mixture
- Troubleshooting: If cheese leaks out during baking, make sure to seal it well with breadcrumbs
- Time-saver: Use pre-sliced onions from the grocery store produce section
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Onion Rings pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces. Try ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for different flavor experiences. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers, or a fresh vegetable platter to balance the richness.
Turn this into a meal by serving with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or alongside burgers as a gourmet replacement for regular fries or onion rings.
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness
- Doneness cue: Look for golden brown coating and slight bubbling of cheese at the edges
- Prep ahead: You can bread the rings up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake
FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
Why are my onion rings soggy?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Leaving space between rings allows for better air circulation and crispier results.
Can I freeze these cheesy onion rings?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them after baking. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
What type of onions work best for this recipe?
Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work best as their natural sweetness complements the savory cheese. Yellow onions are a good alternative.
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