Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheese-Stuffed Surprise : Gooey mozzarella hidden inside crispy onion rings.
- Dual Texture : Crunchy exterior meets creamy, melty interior.
- Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or other cheeses to the filling.
- Versatile : Fry for maximum crispiness or bake for a lighter option.
- Party-Ready : Disappear faster than you can say “pass the ranch!”
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4–6
- 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or red onions work best)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese , cubed (or string cheese for easy stuffing)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs , beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (or olive oil spray for baking)
Optional Upgrades:
- Herbed Cheese : Mix mozzarella with basil, oregano, or parsley.
- Spicy Kick : Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Onions
- Peel onions and slice into ½-inch rings . Separate into individual rings.
- Carefully remove the innermost circle of each ring to create a “pocket” for the cheese.
Step 2: Stuff the Rings
- Place a cube of mozzarella inside each onion ring. Press gently to seal.
Step 3: Bread the Rings
- Dredge in flour (this helps the egg adhere).
- Dip in beaten egg .
- Coat with panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Fry or Bake
Frying Method :
- Heat oil (vegetable or canola) in a skillet to 350°F (175°C) .
- Fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side , until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Baking Method :
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) . Place rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray with olive oil and bake for 15–20 minutes , flipping halfway.
