Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings Recipe: Golden Joy

Crispy mozzarella-stuffed onion rings bring a delightful twist to classic appetizers that’ll make you smile.

Golden-brown edges promise a satisfying crunch waiting to happen.

Melted cheese oozes from inside each perfectly coated ring, creating pure magic on your plate.

Homemade versions easily beat anything from a restaurant menu.

Simple ingredients transform an ordinary snack into something extraordinary.

Crunchy exterior and gooey interior create a mouthwatering contrast you’ll absolutely adore.

Prepare to experience a snack that’ll become an instant favorite at any gathering.

Why Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings Are So Cheesy

• Unleash Cheesy Delights: Mozzarella-stuffed onion rings deliver an irresistible combo of crispy exterior and gooey cheese center that will make taste buds dance with joy.
• Healthier Twist on Classic Comfort: Baked instead of deep-fried, these rings offer a guilt-free version of a beloved snack that doesn't compromise on flavor or crunch.
• Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or casual gatherings where guests crave something unique and satisfying that sparks conversation.
• Simple Ingredient Magic: Using minimal pantry staples like almond flour and basic spices, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary appetizer that impresses without complex techniques.

What Goes In Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

Main Ingredients:

• Large Onions: Sweet and crisp vegetable that provides a delicious base for the recipe.
• Mozzarella Sticks: Creamy cheese that creates a gooey and delightful filling for the onion rings.

• Almond Flour: Gluten-free alternative that creates a crispy and golden exterior.
• Eggs, Milk: Binding agents that help the coating adhere to the onion rings.

• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Spices that add depth and enhance the overall flavor of the onion rings.

How To Bake Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn the oven to 400°F and grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect crispiness.

Step 2: Separate Onion Rings

Gently pull apart the onion rings, looking for pairs that have a nice little pocket for cheese. You want rings that can hold a delicious mozzarella surprise.

Step 3: Stuff with Gooey Cheese

Carefully slide a mozzarella stick into the gap between each onion ring pair. Press the rings together softly to keep the cheese snug inside.

Step 4: Create Flavor-Packed Coating Mix

• Almond flour
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 5: Prepare Egg Wash

• Beaten eggs
• Milk

Step 6: Dunk and Coat Rings

Dip each cheese-stuffed onion ring into the egg mixture, making sure it’s completely covered. Then roll it in the seasoned almond flour mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick perfectly.

Step 7: Arrange for Baking

Place the coated rings on the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer so they can get super crispy.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden coating and melted, bubbly cheese inside.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them set and prevents burning your mouth.

Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

Best Tips For Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

• Opt for sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder, more delicate flavor that complements the crispy coating.
• Select fresh mozzarella sticks that are firm and cold to prevent excessive melting during baking.
• Ensure a perfect crispy texture by patting onion rings dry before coating to remove excess moisture.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, allowing for a hassle-free cooking experience.
• For a gluten-free version, replace almond flour with coconut flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the crunchy exterior.

Tasty Spins On Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

• Spicy Jalapeño Poppers Rings: Add diced jalapeños to the almond flour mixture and mix in cream cheese with the mozzarella for an extra kick of heat and flavor.
• Mediterranean Herb Rings: Incorporate dried oregano, basil, and thyme into the almond flour coating and use feta cheese instead of mozzarella for a Greek-inspired version.
• Ranch-Style Rings: Mix ranch seasoning powder into the almond flour coating and serve with a homemade ranch dipping sauce for a creamy, tangy experience.
• Smoky Bacon Rings: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits into the almond flour mixture and wrap a thin bacon slice around the onion ring before coating for a rich, savory profile.

What To Serve With Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

• Savor Smoky Dipping Sauce: Blend tangy barbecue sauce with a touch of honey and smoked paprika for a rich, complex companion that enhances the crispy onion rings' flavor profile.
• Match with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, whose bright acidity cuts through the cheese's richness and complements the onion's subtle sweetness.
• Pair with Fresh Arugula Salad: Create a light salad with peppery arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved parmesan to balance the rings' indulgent texture and provide a refreshing contrast.

Storage Guide For Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

• Refrigerate: Store cooled onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze: Wrap individual rings in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwave to maintain crunchiness.
• Air Fryer Reheat: Warm rings at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Shake basket halfway through to ensure even heating. Check for desired crispness before serving.

Questions About Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

• Why use almond flour instead of regular flour?

Almond flour creates a crispy, gluten-free coating that’s lower in carbs and adds a subtle nutty flavor to the onion rings.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Mozzarella works best due to its excellent melting properties, but you can experiment with cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.

• How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Choose onion rings with a natural gap and press the edges together gently. Also, make sure not to overheat, which can cause cheese to burst.

• Are these onion rings healthy?

They’re healthier than traditional deep-fried versions, using baking instead of frying and almond flour for a more nutritious coating.

Crispy Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy baked mozzarella-stuffed onion rings deliver a magical blend of crunchy exterior and gooey cheese center. Delightful golden-brown rings promise a satisfying crunch that brings comfort and excitement to snack time.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 large onions, sliced into 0.5 inch rings
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese sticks

Coating Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup milk (almond milk)

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper and heat the oven to 400°F for optimal crispy results.
2. Gently separate onion rings, selecting pairs with a suitable gap to cradle a mozzarella stick.
3. Carefully nestle mozzarella sticks between matching onion ring pairs, pressing edges to create a secure seal.
4. Create a seasoned coating by combining almond flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
5. Whisk eggs and milk together in a separate bowl to create a smooth binding liquid.
6. Submerge each mozzarella-filled onion ring completely in the egg mixture, ensuring thorough coverage.
7. Roll the egg-coated rings in the seasoned almond flour mixture, pressing firmly to achieve a consistent, crisp exterior.
8. Arrange the prepared rings on the lined baking sheet, maintaining a single layer without overcrowding.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the coating transforms into a golden-brown crust and the cheese becomes molten and bubbly.
10. Rest the rings on the baking sheet for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set and the coating to crisp further before serving.

Notes

• Swap standard mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for vegan or lactose-intolerant diets, ensuring the same gooey texture and mouthwatering experience.
• Select sweet onions like Vidalia for milder flavor and more delicate rings that won’t overpower the cheesy goodness.
• Pat onion rings completely dry before coating to help breading adhere better and achieve maximum crispiness without soggy edges.
• Freeze mozzarella sticks briefly before inserting into onion rings to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during baking, maintaining perfect structural integrity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg