Description

Crispy Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are a delicious appetizer featuring sweet onion rings filled with melty mozzarella cheese, breaded with a flavorful seasoned crust, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these stuffed rings are ideal for sharing and dipping in tangy marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Onion Rings and Filling

2 large onions, cut into 1/2-inch thick rings and separated
1 lb (450g) mozzarella cheese, cut into strips

Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Frying and Serving

Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)
Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

Instructions

Preparation: Take two onion rings of different sizes and fill the gap between them with a strip of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process until you have filled all the onion rings, creating stuffed onion ring sandwiches.
Freeze the Stuffed Rings: Place the assembled stuffed onion rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1 hour to firm them up and help the cheese stay in place during frying.
Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three bowls for the breading process: one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Onion Rings: Dip each frozen stuffed onion ring first into the flour, making sure it is completely coated. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, and finally coat evenly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere firmly.
Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for frying.
Fry the Onion Rings: Fry the breaded stuffed onion rings in batches for about 2-3 minutes each, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
Drain and Serve: Remove the onion rings with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately while hot, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.

Notes

Freezing the stuffed onion rings before breading helps keep the cheese inside during frying and prevents leaking.
Ensure the oil temperature remains consistent at 350°F to achieve a crispy coating without soaking up excess oil.
You can substitute mozzarella cheese with another mild melting cheese if preferred.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste as the cheese inside is best enjoyed warm and melty.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: stuffed onion rings, mozzarella cheese rings, crispy onion rings, fried onion appetizer, cheesy onion rings