Description
Crispy mozzarella stuffed onion rings deliver irresistible comfort with an unexpected twist of cheesy goodness. Golden panko crusts and melted cheese centers promise a delightful snack that satisfies savory cravings in one perfect bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet onions
- 8 ounces (225 grams) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
Coating Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Carefully peel onions and slice into robust rings approximately 1/2 inch thick, ensuring each ring maintains a stable structure for stuffing. Select matching ring pairs with slightly different circumferences to create perfect pockets for mozzarella insertion.
- Create precise compartments by nestling a mozzarella stick between paired onion rings, gently pressing edges to minimize potential cheese leakage during cooking.
- Establish three distinct coating zones: first station featuring seasoned flour blend with aromatic garlic and onion powders, second station containing whisked eggs for adhesive binding, third station combining crunchy panko breadcrumbs with nutty Parmesan cheese.
- Methodically transform each onion ring through coating processes – thoroughly dredge in seasoned flour, ensuring complete coverage, immerse in egg wash allowing excess to drip away, then generously roll in breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to guarantee maximum crispy exterior.
- Arrange coated rings on parchment-lined baking sheet, maintaining slight separation to promote even heat circulation. Delicately mist surfaces with cooking spray to enhance golden-brown potential.
- Position sheet in preheated 425°F oven, rotating midway through cooking cycle to guarantee uniform crispness. Monitor closely, removing when rings achieve rich amber coloration and exterior reaches optimal crunchiness.
- Allow brief cooling period to stabilize molten cheese interior. Present immediately alongside complementary dipping sauces like zesty marinara or creamy ranch for enhanced gustatory experience.
Notes
- Choose firm, large onions to create perfect ring pairs with enough space for mozzarella stuffing.
- Select low-moisture mozzarella sticks to prevent excessive leaking during baking and maintain crispy texture.
- Ensure even coating by using one hand for dry ingredients and another for wet ingredients during breading process.
- Arrange rings with enough space between them on baking sheet to allow hot air circulation and achieve maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg