Description
Crispy mozzarella stuffed onion rings elevate classic appetizer comfort with irresistible cheesy goodness. Crunchy golden breading and melted cheese center promise delightful flavor combinations for hungry guests seeking simple yet impressive party snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large sweet onions
- 8 oz (225 g) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preparation: Peel onions and slice into sturdy rings about 1/2 inch thick. Carefully select matching ring pairs to create perfect mozzarella-holding pockets.
- Cheese Stuffing: Insert mozzarella stick between paired onion rings, pressing edges to seal and prevent cheese from escaping during cooking.
- Coating Setup: Arrange three distinct stations – first with seasoned flour mixture (garlic and onion powders), second with whisked eggs, third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
- Breading Process: Coat each onion ring systematically – dredge completely in seasoned flour, dip in egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then roll thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure complete coverage.
- Baking Preparation: Spread coated rings on parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ring. Lightly spray with cooking spray to promote golden-brown coloration.
- Cooking: Roast in preheated 425°F oven, rotating sheet halfway through cooking time. Bake until rings turn deep golden and achieve maximum crispiness, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Serving: Rest briefly to stabilize melted cheese interior. Serve hot with accompanying dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for an elevated flavor experience.
Notes
- Onion Ring Integrity: Choose firm, thick onions with sturdy rings that can hold mozzarella without breaking during coating and baking processes.
- Cheese Containment Strategy: Seal mozzarella stick edges tightly between onion rings to prevent cheese from leaking during high-temperature cooking.
- Coating Technique Mastery: Press breadcrumb mixture firmly onto rings, ensuring complete coverage for maximum crispiness and preventing soggy spots.
- Temperature Control Critical: Use 425°F precisely and rotate baking sheet midway to achieve uniform golden-brown exterior without burning delicate onion layers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg