Ingredients:
1 large onion (yellow or white)
8 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into sticks or use string cheese)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Cooking spray (or a light brush of oil)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions and Cheese:
Peel the onion and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rings. Separate the rings carefully.
Cut the mozzarella into sticks that fit inside the onion rings (or use pre-cut string cheese).
2. Assemble the Rings:
Take one onion ring and place a mozzarella stick inside it. Repeat with all the rings and cheese.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In three separate bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour (mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika).
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs (or panko).
4. Bread the Rings:
Dip each mozzarella-stuffed onion ring into the flour, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick. Repeat for all rings.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
6.Cook the Rings:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
Place the breaded rings in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them to ensure even cooking.
Lightly spray the tops of the rings with cooking spray (this helps them crisp up).
Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese may start to leak out.
7. Serve:
Remove the rings from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two (the cheese will be very hot!).
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs.
If the cheese starts to leak during cooking, don’t worry—it’s still delicious!
For a gluten-free version, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy air fryer mozzarella onion rings as a snack, appetizer, or party treat!
