Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings
Creamy, gooey, and impossibly crunchy — these Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are the ultimate comfort snack that doubles as a party showstopper.
Servings: 4 servings
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.
Notes
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.