Crispy Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

These cheesy onion rings transform the classic appetizer into an indulgent treat with a molten mozzarella surprise inside each crispy bite. The combination of crunchy exterior and gooey cheese creates an irresistible texture contrast that elevates ordinary onion rings to something truly special.

I first made these for a casual movie night with friends and they disappeared within minutes. Now they're requested at every gathering I host, especially during football season when everyone craves something indulgent.

Ingredients

• Large onion Cut into thick rings for structural stability and that perfect onion flavor without overwhelming
• Mozzarella cheese sticks The star ingredient that creates that satisfying cheese pull when served hot
• Milk Creates the perfect batter consistency for coating
• Egg Helps bind the batter and creates a golden exterior
• Panko bread crumbs Superior to regular breadcrumbs for that extra crunch factor
• Cooking oil Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola
• All purpose flour Creates the foundation for your batter
• Baking powder Adds lightness to the batter for a more delicate crunch
• Fine salt Enhances all the flavors without making the rings overtly salty

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Onion and Cheese Structure

Select two complementary onion rings one slightly larger than the other. Cut your mozzarella sticks to fit perfectly between the rings without extending beyond the edges. Carefully nest the smaller ring inside the larger one with the cheese in between and secure this cheese sandwich with toothpicks through all three layers. The toothpicks are crucial as they prevent cheese leakage during frying.

Create Dry Coating Base

Whisk together your flour baking powder and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined. This seasoned flour mixture forms your first coating layer which helps the wet batter adhere better. Thoroughly dredge each stuffed onion ring ensuring every surface is covered then place them on a wire rack to rest.

Mix Wet Batter

Combine your milk and beaten egg in a separate bowl mixing until fully incorporated. Pour this wet mixture into your remaining dry ingredients and whisk until you achieve a smooth batter with the consistency of pancake batter. The batter should be thick enough to cling to the rings but not so thick it forms clumps.

Apply Final Coatings

Dip each floured onion ring into the wet batter using tongs or a fork for control. Allow excess batter to drip off before rolling in Panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto all surfaces for complete coverage. This triple coating system ensures maximum crispiness and prevents cheese leakage.

Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat your oil to 350°F in a deep cooking pot. The oil should be at least 2 inches deep. Carefully lower each breaded ring into hot oil and fry until the bottom side turns golden brown about 2 minutes. Flip once using heat resistant tongs and fry the opposite side until matching golden brown approximately 2 more minutes.

Serve While Hot

Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Carefully remove toothpicks before serving. Transfer to a serving plate and offer with warm marinara sauce alongside. The rings must be served immediately to enjoy that perfect cheese stretch when pulled apart.

Save

The mozzarella is truly what makes these rings special. I discovered that string cheese works exceptionally well because it maintains its shape when cold but melts into that perfect gooey texture when heated. My teenage son once declared these "better than anything at the state fair" which remains the highest compliment in our household.

Storage and Reheating

These cheesy onion rings are definitely best consumed immediately after frying when the exterior is at its crispiest and the cheese is perfectly melted. However if you find yourself with leftovers store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat place them on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for about 5 minutes until the exterior crisps up again and the cheese begins to melt. Avoid microwave reheating as it will make the once crispy coating soggy and unappetizing.

Ingredient Substitutions

While traditional mozzarella provides that classic cheese pull you can experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles. Pepper jack adds a pleasant spicy kick while cheddar offers a sharper flavor contrast to the sweet onion. For those with gluten sensitivities substitute the all purpose flour with a gluten free blend and use gluten free panko breadcrumbs which are now widely available. Dairy free alternatives are also possible using plant based milk and vegan cheese sticks though they will melt differently than traditional mozzarella.

Serving Suggestions

Though marinara is the classic pairing these stuffed onion rings welcome experimentation with dipping sauces. Try a spicy sriracha mayo ranch dressing spiked with hot sauce or even a sweet and savory honey mustard. For a complete meal serve alongside grilled burgers buffalo wings or as part of a larger appetizer spread at your next gathering. They also make an impressive side dish alongside a simple grilled steak or chicken entrée providing textural contrast to the meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during frying?

Secure the cheese firmly between two onion rings using toothpicks, making sure the larger ring completely surrounds the smaller one. Also, ensure your oil temperature is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) so the exterior cooks quickly, sealing in the cheese. Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving!

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake these at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Spray them with cooking oil before baking for better browning. While they won't be quite as crispy as the fried version, they'll still be delicious.

→ What cheese works best besides mozzarella?

While mozzarella provides the best melty, stretchy texture, you could substitute with cheddar, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or halloumi which holds its shape better when heated. Each alternative will offer a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the stuffed rings and coat them up to the Panko breading stage, then refrigerate for a few hours before frying. However, once fried, they're best enjoyed immediately while the exterior is crispy and the cheese is melted.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with cheesy onion rings?

Besides marinara, try ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo. For a sweet-savory combination, BBQ sauce also works wonderfully.

→ How do I slice the onions properly for this dish?

Cut onions into thick rings about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) wide. You'll need matching pairs where one ring is slightly larger than the other, so the smaller can nest inside with space for the cheese between them.