Description
These Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings are a delicious twist on a classic snack. Thick rings of onion are stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese, coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, and fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or a fun party snack, these cheesy rings combine the sweetness of onion with gooey mozzarella in each bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large onions (yellow or white)
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into thick strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Onions and Mozzarella:
- Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings (about 1/2 inch thick). Carefully separate the rings, keeping only the larger outer rings.
- Place a mozzarella strip inside each onion ring, pressing to ensure the cheese fits snugly between two onion rings to form a “cheese-stuffed ring.” Repeat with remaining onion rings and cheese.
2️⃣ Set Up Breading Station:
- In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, add the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, combine panko and Italian-style bread crumbs with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3️⃣ Coat the Onion Rings:
- Dip each stuffed onion ring first in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip in the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Set aside on a plate and repeat for all rings.
4️⃣ Fry the Onion Rings:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until hot (around 350°F). Carefully add a few onion rings at a time, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining onion rings.
5️⃣ Serve:
- Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. These onion rings are best enjoyed fresh and hot!