Cheesy Onion Rings take a beloved classic snack to the next level by adding a gooey mozzarella center. Picture this: a thick-cut onion ring encasing a perfectly melted string of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. It’s everything you love about onion rings—crunchy, salty, savory—with the bonus of rich, melty cheese in every bite. This isn’t just an appetizer—it’s an experience that satisfies cravings for comfort food, finger food, and cheesy indulgence all at once.
What makes these extra special is the double-layered construction: you nest two onion rings together and fit sliced mozzarella between them, securing it all with toothpicks before coating and frying. The result is a ring that holds together beautifully when fried, giving you that irresistible cheese pull when bitten into. Served with marinara sauce, ranch, or a spicy aioli, these rings are guaranteed to disappear fast whether you’re serving them at a party, game night, or just making a fun treat for yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Crispy outside, gooey cheese inside
• Creative twist on a classic snack
• Great for parties, appetizers, or indulgent treats
• Customizable with different cheeses or dips
• Satisfies all your cheesy, crunchy cravings
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 (for frying)
• Toothpicks (for securing onion rings)
Dry Ingredients
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
Carefully slice a large onion into thick rings.
Nest a smaller onion ring inside a larger one, leaving a gap between them wide enough to fit a slice of mozzarella cheese.
Slice mozzarella sticks lengthwise or to size so they fit snugly between the rings.
Insert the cheese between the onion rings and secure the pair with toothpicks to keep the shape intact during breading and frying.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Dredge each prepared onion ring in this dry mixture, coating thoroughly.
Set coated rings on a wire rack and allow them to rest while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and beaten egg.
Pour this liquid mixture into the remaining flour mixture and stir until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
Step 4: Batter and Bread the Rings
Dip each cheese-stuffed onion ring into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Let excess batter drip off, then roll the ring in Panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Set breaded rings on a clean wire rack or tray.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
In a deep pot or heavy skillet, heat cooking oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully lower a few onion rings at a time into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot.
Fry one side for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown. Gently flip with tongs and cook the other side until evenly browned.
Remove and place on a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Allow onion rings to cool slightly, then carefully remove toothpicks.
Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, chipotle aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
For a party platter, garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan.
Tips for Success
• Use fresh mozzarella sticks: They’re easy to slice and fit neatly between rings.
• Choose large onions: You need thick, sturdy rings for nesting and stuffing.
• Keep your oil temperature steady: Too hot and the coating will burn; too cool and the rings will absorb oil.
• Double coat if needed: For an extra crispy exterior, repeat the batter and Panko steps.
• Freeze briefly before frying: A 10-minute chill in the freezer helps the structure hold and prevents cheese from oozing out too soon.
Storage and Reheating
• Refrigerator: Store cooled onion rings in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked rings on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: Bake in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 6–8 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
Variations
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mix or use pepper jack cheese.
• Herb Blend: Mix Italian seasoning or dried herbs into the Panko for added flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Cheesy Onion Rings are the ultimate fusion of two beloved snacks—mozzarella sticks and onion rings—into one golden, gooey, crunchy masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting guests or just craving something over-the-top delicious, this recipe delivers pure comfort with every bite.
