If you love onion rings and melted cheese, prepare for the best of both worlds! These Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter take the classic crunchy appetizer to new heights—crispy, golden rings filled with gooey mozzarella and paired with a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you crave something indulgent, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crunchy & Cheesy: Crispy onion rings meet melty mozzarella for the ultimate bite.
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Bold Garlic Butter: A flavorful dipping sauce elevates every bite.
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Easy & Impressive: Simple ingredients come together for a show-stopping appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Onion Rings:
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1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into ½-inch rings
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8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
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Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt to taste
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
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Separate the onion slices into individual rings, keeping the larger ones for stuffing.
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Fill each ring generously with shredded mozzarella, pressing it in to hold its shape.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Use three shallow bowls:
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Flour Mixture: Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Egg Wash: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
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Breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings
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Dip each mozzarella-stuffed onion ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
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Submerge in the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
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Coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
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Place on a plate and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help the coating set.
Step 4: Fry Until Crispy
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the onion rings in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
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In a small pan, melt butter over low heat.
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Stir in garlic, parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and salt.
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Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
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Arrange crispy, cheese-filled onion rings on a serving platter.
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Drizzle with garlic butter or serve it on the side for dipping.
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Garnish with extra fresh parsley and enjoy them hot!
Tips for Perfect Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings
✔ Use Large Sweet Onions: Vidalia or Walla Walla onions offer the best flavor and size.
✔ Chill Before Frying: Helps the coating stay crisp and prevents cheese from leaking.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches for even cooking.
✔ Make It Spicy: Add jalapeΓ±os to the cheese or cayenne to the butter for a kick!
Final Thoughts
Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, these Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or indulgent side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Craving more delicious bites? Check out our website for more irresistible appetizers, from loaded fries to baked dips. Happy cooking! π΄