Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings
Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings are the ultimate comfort snack, combining crispy golden breading with a molten, stretchy cheese center. Thick onion rings are packed with mozzarella, coated in seasoned crumbs, then fried or air-fried to perfection. They make a crowd-pleasing appetizer, party snack, or fun side dish that disappears fast.
Yield
12–15 stuffed rings
Time
25 minutes
Temperature
375°F (190°C)
Ingredients
Key Ingredients First
- Large onion rings (cut from 1–2 large onions)
- Mozzarella cheese sticks or fresh mozzarella cut into strips
Breading
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko works best)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Frying
- Oil for deep frying or spray for air fryer
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion Rings
Slice large onions into thick rings. Separate the rings and choose pairs that nest together.
Cut mozzarella into pieces that fit snugly between two rings.
Place cheese inside the center of each nested ring and press lightly to secure.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
Place flour in one bowl.
Beat eggs in a second bowl.
Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
3. Bread the Stuffed Rings
Dip each stuffed ring into the flour, coating all sides.
Transfer to the egg mixture and coat completely.
Roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing firmly so the coating sticks.
For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating a second time.
4. Fry or Air Fry
Frying:
Heat oil to 375°F (190°C).
Fry stuffed rings for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Drain on paper towels.
Air Frying:
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray rings with oil.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve
Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch, garlic dip, or spicy mayo.
Tips
- Freeze the stuffed rings for 10 minutes before frying to prevent cheese from melting out.
- Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest coating.
- Use thick onion slices so the structure holds together.
- For added flavor, mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings deliver a perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese in every bite. Simple to prepare and always a hit, they’re an ideal choice for parties, game days, or anytime you want a comforting snack with maximum flavor.