Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings

This crispy mozzarella stuffed onion ring recipe transforms a classic appetizer into a cheesy masterpiece. The combination of sweet onion and gooey mozzarella creates an irresistible contrast that's perfect for game day snacking or as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.

I first made these stuffed onion rings when looking for a creative appetizer for a family gathering, and they've become our most requested snack. The look on everyone's face when they pull apart the rings and the cheese stretches between the pieces is pure joy.

Ingredients

• Large onions: Choose sweet varieties like Vidalia for a milder flavor that complements the cheese
• Mozzarella cheese sticks: The star ingredient that creates that satisfying cheese pull
• Almond flour: Creates a crispy coating while keeping the recipe low carb
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the coating
• Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color
• Eggs: Help the coating adhere and add richness
• Milk: Thins the egg mixture for easier dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Workstation:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having everything ready before you start makes the assembly process much smoother.

Prepare Onion Rings:

Slice onions into thick half inch rings and carefully separate them. Look for rings of similar size that can be paired together with enough space between them to hold the cheese.

Insert Cheese:

Take your mozzarella sticks and cut them into pieces that fit neatly between two onion rings. Press the onion rings together gently to create a sealed pocket for the cheese.

Create Coating Station:

Mix the almond flour with all the seasonings in one shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until completely combined. Position these bowls in assembly line fashion.

Dip and Coat:

Take each mozzarella filled onion ring and first submerge it in the egg mixture, ensuring every surface is coated. Let excess drip off before moving to the next step.

Apply Breading:

Roll the wet ring in the almond flour mixture, using your fingers to press the coating onto all surfaces. Make sure to cover any exposed cheese to prevent leaking during baking.

Arrange for Baking:

Place each coated ring on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding which can lead to soggy results.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, watching carefully toward the end. You want the outside to become golden brown and crispy while the cheese inside melts completely.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the rings to cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn't immediately ooze out when bitten.

Pin it

The almond flour coating is truly the magic element in this recipe. I discovered it when experimenting with low carb options for my husband, and we found it creates an even crispier texture than traditional flour when baked at high heat. The nutty flavor also pairs beautifully with the sweet onions.

Make Ahead Tips

These mozzarella onion rings can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Complete all steps up to coating the rings, then place them on a parchment lined tray in the refrigerator. Cover loosely with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, simply transfer to a baking sheet and add an extra 2 to 3 minutes to the baking time since they'll be cold from the refrigerator. The convenience of this make ahead option makes these perfect for entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy rings are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right dipping sauce. Try marinara sauce for a pizza like experience, ranch dressing for a tangy contrast, or a sriracha mayo for those who enjoy some heat. I like to serve them on a warm platter to keep the cheese gooey longer and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for color and freshness.

Variations To Try

While the classic mozzarella version is always a hit, you can experiment with different cheese varieties to create new flavor profiles. Pepper jack adds a pleasant kick, while a combination of cheddar and mozzarella offers a sharper flavor while maintaining that essential cheese pull. For an extra flavor dimension, try adding a thin slice of pepperoni or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the cheese before sealing the onion rings.

Pin it

These onion rings will transform any gathering into a memorable feast. Their crispy exterior and gooey interior guarantee they're a crowd favorite every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs for the almond flour in equal amounts if you're not concerned about keeping the dish low-carb. Panko breadcrumbs would also work well for extra crispiness.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to select onion rings that fit snugly around the cheese sticks, and press the rings together slightly. Double-coating with the egg mixture and almond flour can also help create a better seal. If needed, you can freeze the assembled rings for 15 minutes before baking to help the cheese stay put.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, checking frequently. The air fryer will give you an extra crispy exterior while melting the cheese perfectly.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these onion rings?

These mozzarella-stuffed onion rings pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a low-carb option, try a sour cream-based dip with herbs.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the rings and coat them up to a day ahead, storing them covered in the refrigerator. For best results, bake them just before serving. If needed, you can reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

→ What type of mozzarella works best for this?

String cheese or firm mozzarella sticks work best as they hold their shape while still melting beautifully. Avoid using fresh mozzarella as it contains too much moisture and may make the onion rings soggy.