Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter

Ingredients

For the Onion Rings:

• 2 large yellow onions
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese (block or string cheese works best)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for flavor)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Garlic Butter:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prep the Onion Rings:
   • Peel and slice onions into ½-inch thick rings.
   • Carefully separate into individual rings and pair large and small rings to form a ring mold with a gap between (for stuffing).
2. Stuff with Mozzarella:
   • Cut mozzarella into strips that fit between your ring pairs.
   • Insert the mozzarella between two concentric onion rings and gently press to hold.
3. Bread the Rings:
   • Set up three bowls: flour (with a pinch of salt and pepper), beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs (with paprika if using).
   • Dredge each stuffed ring in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
   • For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
   • Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes to help them hold shape.
4. Fry:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
   • Carefully fry rings in batches until golden brown and crispy (2–3 minutes per side).
   • Drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Garlic Butter:
   • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in parsley and a pinch of salt.
6. Serve:
   • Drizzle warm garlic butter over fried onion rings or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.

Optional: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for extra dipping options.

Would you like a baked or air fryer variation as well?