Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings
Crispy, golden, and oozing with melty mozzarella, these stuffed onion rings are a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. They combine the sweetness of onion with creamy cheese and a crunchy coating for the ultimate indulgence.
Time Required
Prep Time 20 minutes
Freeze Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
Onion Rings:
2 large yellow onions, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick slices
8 oz mozzarella cheese (or 6–8 mozzarella sticks), cut into ¼-inch thick strips
Coating:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2–3 large eggs, beaten
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Frying:
Vegetable oil (canola, sunflower, or peanut oil)
Optional for Serving:
Marinara sauce or ranch dressing, for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
1. Slice the onions into ½-inch thick rounds.
2. Carefully separate them into individual rings.
3. Match larger rings with smaller ones to create pairs – these will form the “walls” around the cheese.
Step 2: Stuff with Cheese
1. Cut mozzarella into strips that fit neatly between the paired onion rings.
2. Insert a cheese strip in the space between the larger outer ring and the smaller inner ring, pressing gently.
3. Repeat until you’ve used all the onion pairs and cheese.
Step 3: Freeze the Rings
1. Arrange the stuffed rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
2. Freeze for at least 1 hour. This helps the rings hold their shape and prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly when fried.
Step 4: Prepare the Breading Station
1. In one bowl: add flour.
2. In a second bowl: whisk the eggs.
3. In a third bowl: mix panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Bread the Onion Rings
1. Coat each ring in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip into the egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture.
3. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more (optional but recommended).
4. Return to the freezer for 10–15 minutes while heating oil.
Step 6: Fry to Perfection
1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully lower rings into the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon.
3. Fry for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
4. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip.
Notes
Use string cheese for convenience – it fits well and melts evenly.
Freeze thoroughly before frying to avoid cheese leakage.
Make them ahead: Freeze breaded rings and fry straight from frozen.
Tips
Don’t skip freezing – it’s essential for keeping the cheese inside while frying.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
To make it spicy, add cayenne pepper or crushed red chili to the breadcrumb mix.
Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the right frying temperature.
Want a lighter version? Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake instead of fry them?
A: Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: Can I use frozen onion rings instead of fresh?
A: Not recommended for stuffing — they’re usually too small and fragile.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Q: Can I freeze them after breading?
A: Yes! Lay them flat on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen – just add 1–2 minutes to cook time.
Nutritional Information
Calories 310 kcal
Carbohydrates 22 g
Protein 11 g
Fat 20 g
Saturated Fat 8 g
Cholesterol 65 mg
Sodium 480 mg
Fiber 1.5 g
Sugar 3 g