Ingredients

Scale

For the Onion Rings

2 large sweet onions (like Vidalia), peeled and sliced into thick 1/2-inch rings
12 oz mozzarella cheese block, sliced into strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
3 large eggs
2 tbsp whole milk
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Garlic Butter Dip

1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Onion Rings

Peel and slice the onions into thick rings, about ½ inch wide. Separate them into matching pairs by size. Select a larger ring and a slightly smaller one that fits snugly inside. You’ll be sandwiching the mozzarella in between these pairs.

Step 2: Add the Mozzarella

Cut the mozzarella into strips that fit between the two rings. Press the smaller onion ring inside the larger one, with a strip of mozzarella fitted snugly in the space between. Repeat with remaining rings and cheese. Place these on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour—this helps the cheese stay intact while frying.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations

In three shallow bowls, set up your breading stations. In the first, mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second, whisk together eggs and milk. In the third, combine panko and Italian breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 4: Bread the Onion Rings

Dip each stuffed ring first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. For an ultra-crispy coating, double-dip: repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Carefully place a few rings at a time into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Butter Dip

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Stir in salt, parsley, and Parmesan if using. Pour into a dipping bowl and serve warm.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 310
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 440mg
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 9g