Description

Crunchy, golden, and loaded with gooey cheese, these Cheesy Onion Rings elevate the classic appetizer to irresistible heights. Each ring features tender onion and a melty cheese center, all encased in a crispy seasoned coating—perfect for game days, parties, or any time you crave savory comfort food.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Onion Rings

2 large yellow onions, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into thin strips (or string cheese, halved)

For the Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Frying

Vegetable oil, for deep frying

To Serve

Marinara sauce or ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Onions and Cheese: Carefully separate onion slices into individual rings. Pair similar-sized rings together, then place a strip of cheese between two rings, nesting a smaller ring inside a larger one with cheese sandwiched between. Repeat with remaining onions and cheese.
Set Up Your Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
Bread the Onion Rings: Gently coat each onion and cheese ring first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press in the breadcrumb mixture to fully cover. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for double coating.
Chill the Rings: Place breaded rings on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the breading adhere and prevents the cheese from melting out too quickly when frying.
Fry the Onion Rings: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rings in batches, 2–3 minutes on each side, until deeply golden and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
Drain and Serve: Remove onion rings with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara or ranch if desired.

Notes

For extra cheesy rings, use two strips of cheese per ring pairing.
Panko breadcrumbs yield a crunchier coating, but regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch.
Freeze breaded rings for longer storage; fry from frozen, just add an extra minute or two.
Try cheddar or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
Let oil return to temperature between batches for consistent crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4-5 rings
Calories: 340
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 670mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 70mg