Indulge in the irresistible crunch of Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings, a delightful twist on a classic appetizer. These rings combine the savory sweetness of onions with gooey, melty mozzarella cheese, all encased in a light, crispy coating. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party dish, these baked onion rings are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear!
Ingredients:
For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large onions (preferably yellow or sweet)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or a drizzle of olive oil
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Onions:
- Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings (about ½ inch wide).
- Carefully separate the rings, ensuring you have both inner and outer rings.
- Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one bowl, place the flour.
- In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Rings:
- Take one onion ring, fill it with a generous amount of the mozzarella mixture, then carefully place another ring on top, creating a “sandwich.”
- Dredge the assembled onion ring in flour, then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the ring in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake the Onion Rings:
- Arrange the coated onion rings on the prepared baking sheet. Spray or drizzle with olive oil to promote crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- While the onion rings are baking, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve:
- Once the onion rings are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with the dipping sauce.