Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter: The Ultimate Crispy, Cheesy Treat! 🧀🧅


 

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

  • Crunchy & Cheesy: Crispy onion rings meet melty mozzarella for the ultimate bite.

  • Bold Garlic Butter: A flavorful dipping sauce elevates every bite.

  • Easy & Impressive: Simple ingredients come together for a show-stopping appetizer.

Ingredients

For the Onion Rings:

  • 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into ½-inch rings

  • 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt to taste

How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

  • Separate the onion slices into individual rings, keeping the larger ones for stuffing.

  • 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:

  1. Flour Mixture: Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  2. Egg Wash: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.

  3. Breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings

  • Dip each mozzarella-stuffed onion ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

  • Submerge in the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.

  • Coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

  • Place on a plate and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help the coating set.

Step 4: Fry Until Crispy

  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

  • Fry the onion rings in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

  • Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • In a small pan, melt butter over low heat.

  • Stir in garlic, parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and salt.

  • Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Arrange crispy, cheese-filled onion rings on a serving platter.

  • Drizzle with garlic butter or serve it on the side for dipping.

  • 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 jalapeños 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! 🍴