Prep Time: ~15 minutes | Cook Time: ~10 minutes | Total Time: ~25 minutes | Yield: ~4 servings
Introduction
Cheesy Mozzarella Onion Rings are crispy, golden-fried onion rings stuffed with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. They combine the crunch of classic onion rings with the stretchy goodness of mozzarella sticks, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Why This Snack Is So Loved
These onion rings are loved for their crunchy exterior and melty cheese center. They’re fun to make, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to disappear fast at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Onion Rings
- Large onions, sliced into thick rings
- Mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks or strips
For the Breading
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Milk
- Breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
- Salt
For Frying
- Cooking oil
Optional Tools
- Toothpicks (to secure the rings)
The Flavor Profile
These onion rings offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Sweet, tender onion pairs with stretchy mozzarella, all wrapped in a crispy, golden coating that delivers crunch in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion Rings
Separate onion slices into rings. Place a strip of mozzarella inside a large onion ring and cover with a smaller ring to secure the cheese inside. Use a toothpick if needed.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
Place flour and a pinch of salt in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs with a splash of milk. Add breadcrumbs to a third bowl.
3. Coat the Rings
Dip each stuffed onion ring into flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
4. Heat the Oil
Heat cooking oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) or until hot but not smoking.
5. Fry the Onion Rings
Carefully fry the onion rings in batches, cooking about 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve
Remove rings from the oil and place on paper towels to drain. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Chill the assembled rings briefly before frying to prevent cheese from leaking
- Double-coat for extra crunch
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature
- Serve immediately for the best cheese pull
Creative Variations
- Spicy Version: add cayenne or chili powder to the breadcrumbs
- Italian Style: mix Italian seasoning into the breading
- Air Fryer Option: cook at 375°F until golden and crisp
- Extra Cheesy: use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar
How to Serve
Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or garlic aioli. These onion rings also pair perfectly with burgers and sandwiches.
Storage & Freshness
Leftover onion rings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mozzarella Onion Rings are crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and packed with flavor. Easy to make and fun to eat, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any snack table.
