Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter 🧅🧀🔥
Crispy, golden onion rings stuffed with gooey mozzarella, dunked in a rich garlic butter sauce—the ultimate game-day snack or indulgent side!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Onion Rings:
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2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Spanish)
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8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into ½” sticks
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1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 cup (100g) panko breadcrumbs
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
For Serving:
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Marinara sauce or spicy mayo
Instructions
1. Prep the Onions
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Slice onions into ½-inch thick rings. Gently separate the rings (keep pairs together for stuffing).
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Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture (helps the coating stick).
2. Stuff with Cheese
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Sandwich mozzarella sticks between two onion rings, pressing gently to seal. Repeat for all rings.
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Freeze for 15 minutes (helps the cheese stay intact while frying).
3. Bread the Rings
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Dredge each ring in flour (shake off excess).
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Dip in beaten eggs.
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Roll in panko + garlic powder + paprika + salt until fully coated.
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Freeze again for 10 mins (for extra crispiness).
4. Fry to Perfection
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Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry rings in batches for 2-3 mins until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.
5. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
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Mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.
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Brush over hot onion rings or serve as a dip.
6. Serve Immediately!
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Pair with marinara or ranch for dipping.
Tips for Success
✔ Use block mozzarella (not fresh)—it melts slower and holds shape better.
✔ Double-fry for extra crunch: Fry once, rest 5 mins, then fry again.
✔ Air fryer option: Spray with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 mins, flipping halfway.
Why These Are Next-Level
🧀 Ooey-gooey cheese pulls in every bite!
🧄 Garlic butter glaze adds gourmet flavor.
🔥 Crispy outside, tender inside—no soggy rings here.
Make ahead? Freeze breaded rings before frying, then cook straight from frozen (+1-2 mins frying time).
Want spicier rings? Add cayenne to the breading! 🌶️