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Crispy Fried Onion Rings with Mozzarella

These crispy fried onion rings are stuffed with melted mozzarella cheese and coated in a savory panko crust, creating an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that rivals any restaurant appetizer.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large yellow or white onion (sliced into quarter-inch rings)
  • Thin slices mozzarella cheese (for filling between rings)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the batter base)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (adds extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for smoky flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances savory taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional but recommended for extra lightness)
  • cold water (add gradually until right batter consistency)
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (for the crispy outer coating)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons dried parsley (for color and flavor)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (creamy base for dipping sauce)
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup (adds tangy sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens umami flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for dipping sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for dipping sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for dipping sauce)
  • neutral oil (canola or vegetable oil for frying)

Instructions

  1. Soak the Rings: Place onion rings in a bowl of ice-cold water for 10 minutes to crisp them up and remove excess sulfur compounds. Drain completely and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Create the Cheese Pocket: Using three nested onion rings stacked together, carefully remove the middle ring to create a gap. Cut thin mozzarella slices to fit into this gap, then place the outer and inner rings back together to hold the cheese securely in place.
  3. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Slowly add cold water, stirring constantly until you achieve a thick, glue-like consistency, slightly thicker than pancake batter.
  4. Mix the Coating: In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and dried parsley, stirring well so the green flecks are evenly distributed throughout the crumbs.
  5. Prepare the Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until smooth and glossy, then refrigerate while you fry the onion rings.
  6. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat neutral oil to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit (175-180 degrees Celsius), using a candy or deep-fry thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  7. Coat the Rings: Dip each cheese-filled onion ring into the batter, letting excess drip off for 1 to 2 seconds. Immediately coat generously with the panko mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres well to the batter.
  8. Fry Until Golden: Carefully place coated rings into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy, with the cheese completely melted inside.
  9. Drain and Serve: Remove the rings with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy, alongside the chilled Canes-style dipping sauce.
  • Author: Adriana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Perfect for game day gatherings, parties, or whenever you're craving an indulgent fried snack.