Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings: A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite
There’s something universally satisfying about a crispy, golden-brown onion ring. Whether they’re enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they have a way of making every meal feel a little more indulgent. Now, imagine taking that classic snack and transforming it into something even more irresistible—imagine stuffing those onion rings with gooey, melty mozzarella cheese. This is the magic of Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings. The outer layer is crispy and crunchy, while the inside is filled with warm, stretchy mozzarella cheese that oozes out with every bite. These cheesy onion rings offer an exciting new way to enjoy a beloved dish, making them perfect for parties, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a savory treat. The recipe itself is simple, but the result is anything but ordinary. The combination of the crispy breadcrumb coating, the slightly sweet onion, and the gooey cheese creates a flavor profile that is nothing short of addicting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Party Food
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 large onions
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (enough to submerge the onion rings)
Instructions
Prepare the Onions and Cheese Filling:
- Slice the onions into thick rings, about ½ inch wide.
- Gently separate the onion rings from each other.
- Take two rings of different sizes for each stuffed onion ring. The larger ring will form the outer shell, and the smaller one fits inside it.
- Fill the space between the two rings with shredded mozzarella cheese, pressing gently to compact the cheese inside.
Coat the Onion Rings:
- Dredge each stuffed onion ring in all-purpose flour, ensuring that the entire surface is coated evenly.
- Dip the floured rings into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
- Coat the onion rings in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the surface of the onion and cheese.
Fry the Onion Rings:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a few onion rings into the hot oil at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the rings for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the onion rings with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Drain and Serve:
- Once the onion rings have drained, serve them hot for the best texture and flavor.
- You can pair these cheesy onion rings with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy buffalo sauce, depending on your preferences.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is the classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses to create a unique flavor profile. Cheddar, gouda, provolone, or even pepper jack are great alternatives. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well for that gooey center.
- Breadcrumb Options: If you want extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, which can give the onion rings an even crispier texture.
- Seasoning the Breadcrumbs: To enhance the flavor, you can add a variety of seasonings to the breadcrumbs. Garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, or even cayenne pepper can add a depth of flavor and a bit of heat. Try experimenting with different combinations to suit your taste.
- Herb Additions: Adding herbs like finely chopped basil, parsley, or thyme into the cheese filling can bring a fresh, aromatic element to the dish. These herbs will complement the rich mozzarella and add a burst of flavor with every bite.
- Spicy Option: For those who like a bit of heat, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the egg wash or breadcrumb mixture to give the onion rings a spicy kick. Alternatively, you could stuff the onion rings with pepper jack cheese for a fiery version of this dish.
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to add some vegetables to the recipe, consider adding finely chopped spinach or kale into the cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrition. These greens can be mixed into the mozzarella cheese before stuffing the onion rings.
- Gluten-Free Variation: To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Many gluten-free breadcrumbs are available, and you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
- Air-Fried Option: If you prefer a healthier cooking method, consider using an air fryer instead of deep frying the onion rings. While the texture may differ slightly, air-frying can still yield crispy, delicious results with much less oil. Simply preheat your air fryer and cook the rings for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.