Mozzarella Onion Rings combine the best of both worlds: the crunch of onion rings and the gooey cheese pull of mozzarella sticks. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these rings are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Large onions: 2 (sliced into thick rings)
- Mozzarella cheese sticks: 5-6 (cut into strips to fit inside the onion rings)
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2 large (beaten)
- Breadcrumbs: 2 cups (use panko for extra crunch)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: For frying
- Optional: Marinara sauce or ketchup for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings. Separate the rings carefully.
Take two rings, one slightly smaller than the other, and fit them together to create a gap between the rings.
Step 2: Add the Mozzarella
Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into strips that fit snugly between the two onion rings.
Place the mozzarella strip in the gap between the rings and press lightly to secure. Repeat for all the rings.
Step 3: Coat the Rings
Prepare a breading station with three bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour mixed with salt and pepper.
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs.
Coat each onion ring in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
Step 4: Fry the Rings
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot with marinara sauce, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy the crispy exterior and melty cheese center!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Onion Rings
Double-Coating for Extra Crispiness: Dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice for a thicker, crunchier crust.
Freeze Before Frying: Place the coated rings in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before frying to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For maximum crunch, panko breadcrumbs are the best choice.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil stays at 350°F for even frying and to avoid sogginess.
Calories Per Serving
For 1 onion ring (approximate):
Onion: ~15 calories
Mozzarella: ~50 calories
Breadcrumbs and flour: ~60 calories
Oil (absorbed): ~40 calories
Total per ring: ~165 calories
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy and Crispy: The perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Customizable: Add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
Quick and Easy: A simple recipe that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serve as a snack at game nights or parties.
Pair with a spicy dipping sauce for a flavor twist.
Add them as a crunchy topping for burgers or salads.