Creamy, gooey, and impossibly crunchy — these Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are the ultimate comfort snack that doubles as a party showstopper. Imagine biting into a crisp, golden shell to find molten mozzarella and sweet onion wrapped together in a perfect pocket of flavor. Fun fact: stuffed onion rings started as a bar snack in diners where clever cooks wanted to level up ordinary fried treats. If you’re looking for something that feels special but is actually simple to make, this recipe delivers.
If you like variations on fried favorites, check out our detailed Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings recipe page for more ideas and photos. This version is quick, family-friendly, and perfect for sharing — whether it’s game night or a casual weekend dinner. Get ready to make something comforting that everyone will love.
What is Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings?
What’s in a name — and how did onion rings learn to wear cheese like a crown? Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are exactly what they sound like: thick onion slices formed into rings, filled with pieces of mozzarella, breaded, and fried until golden. Who wouldn’t want to snack on a cheesy, crunchy ring of joy? Could the saying that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” also apply to everyone else? Absolutely — cheesy snacks are universal. This little hybrid of onion ring and mozzarella stick adds a playful twist to a classic. Try it and see why people smile after the first bite.
Why You’ll Love This
- Melty center and crispy exterior: The main highlight is the contrast between hot, gooey mozzarella and a satisfyingly crunchy breadcrumb crust that gives each bite a perfect balance of textures.
- Budget-friendly and customizable: Making these at home saves money compared to restaurant versions, and you can stretch ingredients — one batch can feed a crowd or become a hearty appetizer for gatherings.
- Bold yet familiar flavors: The seasoned breadcrumbs with garlic, onion, and paprika bring depth; pair with a tangy marinara for a vibrant dipping combo.
If you enjoy fried comfort food, these have the same crowd-pleasing draw as many of our other recipes — check out our riff on classic Cheesy Onion Rings for another delicious option. Now grab your apron and let’s get frying!
How to Make:
Quick Overview
This recipe is a simple, three-bowl breading process that’s easy for beginners and fast for busy cooks. Prep is straightforward: slice onions, stuff with mozzarella, coat, and fry. Expect a creamy interior, a crunchy exterior, and lots of satisfied smiles. Total time: about 10–15 minutes prep, 10–15 minutes frying in batches — roughly 25–30 minutes start to finish. The standout element is the molten mozzarella center that oozes out the moment you bite in.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings and separated
- 8 mozzarella sticks, cut in half so you have 16 pieces, room temperature for easier stuffing
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature for better adhesion
- 2 cups breadcrumbs mixed with spices, plain or panko for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder, mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika, mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt, mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, mixed into breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying, enough for 1–2 inches in a skillet or a deep fryer set to 350°F (175°C)
- Marinara sauce for dipping, warmed
Directions
- Slice the onions into 1/2-inch thick rings and separate them, gently removing inner rings as needed. Keep larger rings for stuffing and set smaller pieces aside for another use.
- Cut the mozzarella sticks in half and place them inside the onion rings, filling the rings completely so the cheese sits snugly inside. If a ring is too large, use two halves joined together to fill it.
- In three separate bowls, place the flour in the first bowl, the buttermilk in the second bowl, and the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl. Mix the breadcrumbs thoroughly so the spices are uniform.
- Dredge each filled onion ring first in the flour, tapping off excess, then dip into the buttermilk to coat fully, and finally press into the seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring each ring is fully coated. For extra security, repeat the buttermilk and breadcrumb step for a double coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady temperature for consistent browning.
- Fry the onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes each or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan so the temperature doesn’t drop.
- Remove the onion rings with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels for a minute to remove excess oil. Let them rest briefly; the cheese will be very hot.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy immediately for the best gooey texture.
What to Serve With
- Marinara sauce for dipping — a classic, tangy pairing that complements the melted mozzarella.
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Coleslaw or a crunchy slaw to add texture and brightness.
- Crispy fries or roasted potato wedges for a heartier platter.
- Cold beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a light red wine for a satisfying drink pairing.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Use firm mozzarella sticks and cut them cold so they’re easier to handle; allow them to come to room temperature briefly before assembling if needed.
- Double-coat for extra protection: flour, buttermilk, breadcrumbs, then repeat buttermilk and breadcrumbs for a thicker shell that holds the cheese in.
- Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C); too hot and the outside burns before the cheese melts, too cool and they absorb oil.
- Work quickly but gently when stuffing and breading to avoid soggy onions.
- If making ahead, assemble rings and keep them refrigerated on a tray until ready to bread and fry.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover onion rings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes to restore the crisp texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze fully breaded, unfried rings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Fry from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time. Do not refreeze after frying.
- Best reheating method: Use an air fryer or oven to re-crisp the breadcrumb coating and avoid a microwave, which makes them soggy and can melt cheese unevenly.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Baking will be less oily but may not achieve the exact same crispness. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange on a baking sheet with a little oil spray, and bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
What cheese works best if I don’t have mozzarella sticks?
Stringy cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or low-moisture mozzarella shredded and pressed into a little packet work well.
How do I prevent cheese from leaking out while frying?
Make sure the onion ring is filled snugly and the breading is well-adhered; double breading helps seal the cheese inside.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Panko alternatives also work.
Are these suitable for kids?
Absolutely. Cut into smaller pieces for little hands and serve with a mild marinara or ketchup for dipping.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are a simple, show-stopping snack that’s both comforting and fun to make. They’re quick enough for a weekend treat, wallet-friendly compared to takeout, and endlessly customizable to suit tastes. If you want another tested variation or inspiration for a baked version, check out the detailed Mozzarella-Stuffed Crispy Baked Onion Rings Recipe for a reliable alternative. Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and enjoy the applause when everyone takes that first melty bite.
Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings
Equipment
- Deep Fryer
- Mixing Bowls
- Slotted Spoon
- Thermometer
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large Onions, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
- 8 sticks Mozzarella sticks, cut in half Room temperature for easier stuffing
- 1 cup All-purpose flour For dredging
- 1 cup Buttermilk Room temperature for better adhesion
- 2 cups Breadcrumbs Mixed with spices, plain or panko for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder Mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Salt Mixed into breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Mixed into breadcrumbs
- Oil For frying Enough for 1–2 inches in a skillet or deep fryer set to 350°F (175°C)
- Marinara sauce For dipping Warmed
Instructions
- Slice the onions into 1/2-inch thick rings and separate them, gently removing inner rings as needed. Keep larger rings for stuffing and set smaller pieces aside for another use.
- Cut the mozzarella sticks in half and place them inside the onion rings, filling the rings completely so the cheese sits snugly inside.
- In three separate bowls, place the flour in the first bowl, the buttermilk in the second bowl, and the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl. Mix the breadcrumbs thoroughly so the spices are uniform.
- Dredge each filled onion ring first in the flour, tapping off excess, then dip into the buttermilk to coat fully, and finally press into the seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring each ring is fully coated. For extra security, repeat the buttermilk and breadcrumb step for a double coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady temperature for consistent browning.
- Fry the onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes each or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan so the temperature doesn’t drop.
- Remove the onion rings with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels for a minute to remove excess oil. Let them rest briefly; the cheese will be very hot.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy immediately for the best gooey texture.