Follow me

If you’re looking for the ultimate indulgent snack, look no further than Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings! This innovative treat combines two of America’s favorite appetizers—crispy onion rings and gooey mozzarella sticks—into one irresistible bite. Perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in, these cheesy, crunchy, golden-brown rings will be a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home, and you can customize them to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this recipe for a mouthwatering crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings:

  • 2 large onions – peeled and cut into thick rings (about 1/2 inch).
  • 10–12 mozzarella sticks – cut into smaller pieces to fit inside the onion rings.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs – beaten.
  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs – panko works best for an extra-crispy coating.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil – for frying.

Optional for Serving:

  • Marinara sauce
  • Ranch dressing
  • Spicy mayo

Instructions

1: Prepare the Onion Rings and Mozzarella

  1. Slice the onions into thick rings and carefully separate them. Choose rings that are about the same size to pair them up later.
  2. Cut the mozzarella sticks into pieces that will fit snugly between two onion layers. Insert a mozzarella piece between two concentric onion rings, creating a sandwich. Repeat until all the onion and cheese are paired.

2: Set Up the Breading Station

  1. Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
  2. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs.
  3. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for added flavor.

3: Bread the Onion Rings

  1. Take each mozzarella-stuffed onion ring and coat it lightly in flour, ensuring every part is covered.
  2. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
  3. Coat it thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps one more time.

4: Fry the Onion Rings

  1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the onion rings in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  3. Transfer the fried onion rings to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch.

Tips for Success

  • Prevent Cheese Leaks: Ensure the mozzarella is completely enclosed by the onion and the breading to prevent it from oozing out during frying. Double-breading is key!
  • Choose the Right Oil: Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for frying.
  • Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain a consistent oil temperature for perfectly crispy onion rings.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
  • Freezer: You can freeze uncooked breaded onion rings for up to 2 months. Fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery twist.
  • Herby Flavor: Mix dried Italian herbs, like oregano or basil, into the breadcrumbs for a Mediterranean flair.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Air Fryer Option: For a lighter version, cook the rings in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g

FAQ

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Place the breaded onion rings on a greased baking sheet, spray them with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: What type of mozzarella should I use?
A: Use low-moisture mozzarella sticks for the best results. Fresh mozzarella tends to release too much water during frying.

Q: How can I prevent sogginess?
A: Serve the rings immediately and avoid stacking them. For reheating, use an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can bread the rings in advance and freeze them until ready to fry, making them a convenient make-ahead appetizer.