Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter: Crispy, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Bites

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Introduction

Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with garlicky flavor—these Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter are the ultimate indulgent appetizer. Whether you’re hosting game night, a dinner party, or just treating yourself, these cheesy bites bring the wow factor. The combination of sweet white onions, melty mozzarella, and buttery garlic goodness makes this a show-stopping snack that disappears fast

Ingredients (Makes about 12 stuffed rings)

  • 2 large white onions
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup butter
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Marinara or ranch (optional, for dipping)

Tips for Perfect Onion Rings

  1. Choose the Right Onions: Large, firm white onions make perfect rings that hold their shape.
  2. Freeze Before Frying: Chilling the stuffed rings helps the cheese stay inside when frying.
  3. Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: Dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice for an extra-crispy coating.
  4. Garlic Butter Magic: Drizzle or brush on garlic butter right after frying for bold flavor.
  5. Air Fryer Friendly: You can air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onion Rings
    • Slice onions into ½-inch thick rings and separate them.
    • Match similar-sized rings together and create pairs, leaving space to stuff in between.
  2. Stuff with Cheese
    • Place shredded mozzarella between two matching rings. Press gently to form a “cheese sandwich.”
    • Freeze for 20–30 minutes to firm up (helps prevent cheese from leaking during frying).
  3. Coat the Rings
    • Set up a dredging station with 3 bowls: flour (with salt & pepper), beaten eggs, and a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
    • Dredge each frozen stuffed ring in flour, dip in egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
  4. Fry or Air Fry
    • Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
    • For air frying: Lightly spray with oil and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
  5. Make the Garlic Butter
    • In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Serve and Enjoy
    • Brush garlic butter over hot onion rings. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
    • Serve warm with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information (per ring, fried)

  • Calories: 156
  • Total Fat: 10g (13% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 39mg (13% DV)
  • Sodium: 230mg (10% DV)
  • Carbohydrates: 11g (4% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Calcium: 130mg (10% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (6% DV)

Values vary depending on frying method and cheese quantity.

Make It Your Own

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese filling.
  • Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Italian Twist: Add dried oregano and basil to the breadcrumb mix.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze pre-fried rings after breading for up to 1 month. Fry from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes.
  • Reheat: Warm in oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–8 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Cheesy, crispy, and completely crave-worthy, these Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings elevate any appetizer spread. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, one bite and you’ll see why these golden beauties are unforgettable.

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