Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings Recipe

Onion rings are a classic appetizer, loved for their crispy exterior and savory flavor. This recipe takes them to a new level by stuffing them with gooey mozzarella cheese. The result is a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors—crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings are sure to be a hit.

In this guide, we will walk you through each step, from selecting the right onions to frying the perfect onion rings. With detailed instructions and tips, you’ll be able to create this delectable dish in no time.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

1. Peel the Onions: Begin by peeling the outer skin from the large sweet onions.
2. Slice the Onions: Carefully slice the onions into thick rings, about 1/2 inch wide. Aim for 4-5 rings per onion. If the rings separate, that’s perfectly fine.
3. Remove Inner Rings: Gently remove the inner rings from the outer rings, leaving the thicker outer rings intact. You should have about 12-15 large outer rings for stuffing.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley (if using).
2. Mix Well: Use a fork to mix until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Stations

1. Set Up Three Bowls: In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Whisk together until well combined.
2. Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a second bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk until smooth.
3. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. You can season the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

Step 4: Stuff the Onion Rings

1. Fill the Rings: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each outer onion ring with the cheesy mixture, packing it in slightly. Leave a little space at the top, as the cheese will expand during cooking.
2. Repeat for All Rings: Continue filling the remaining onion rings until all are stuffed.

Step 5: Bread the Onion Rings

1. Coat in Flour Mixture: Take a stuffed onion ring and dip it into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip in Wet Mixture: Next, dip the floured onion ring into the egg and buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated.
3. Coat in Breadcrumbs: Finally, roll the onion ring in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well. Repeat this process for all the stuffed onion rings.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

1. Choose Your Cooking Method: You can use a deep fryer or a heavy pot for frying. If using a pot, fill it with about 2-3 inches of oil.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle and brown quickly.

Step 7: Fry the Onion Rings

1. Fry in Batches: Carefully place a few breaded onion rings into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches for even cooking.
2. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the onion rings are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. Repeat: Continue frying the remaining onion rings until all are cooked.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Onion Rings: Arrange the cheesy stuffed onion rings on a serving platter.
2. Add Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
3. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Onions: Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal for this recipe, as they offer a mild, sweet flavor that complements the cheese.
• Don’t Rush the Filling: Make sure to fill the onion rings generously, but avoid overfilling them, as the cheese will expand during frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at a consistent temperature is crucial for achieving crispy onion rings. If the temperature drops too low, they may become greasy.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter and crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses into the filling. Cheddar, pepper jack, or even blue cheese can add unique flavors to your onion rings.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Parties: These cheesy stuffed onion rings are a fantastic appetizer for gatherings, parties, or game days. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• Pair with Drinks: Serve with ice-cold beers, cocktails, or soda for the perfect snack during your next gathering.
• Combine with Other Dishes: Serve alongside other appetizers like chicken wings, potato skins, or mozzarella sticks for a full spread.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Protein: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 2g

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Variations of Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings

While the classic cheesy stuffed onion rings are delicious on their own, you can also try these variations for a twist on the original recipe:

1. Spicy Stuffed Onion Rings

• Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese filling for a spicy kick.

2. Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Onion Rings

• Mix in cooked and crumbled bacon with shredded cheddar cheese for a smoky, savory flavor.

3. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Onion Rings

• Combine shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy, tangy filling.

4. Vegetarian Stuffed Onion Rings

• Mix in finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, with the cheese filling for a veggie-packed version.

5. Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Onion Rings

• Add minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the cheese filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftover Cheesy Stuffed Onion Rings

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, breaded onion rings. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the onion rings on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy.
2. Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the onion rings in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated and crispy.
3. Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the onion rings for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but they may lose their crispiness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With their crispy coating and gooey cheese filling, they make for an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a fun dish to enjoy with friends and family, these onion rings are sure to impress.

By following the detailed instructions in this guide, you can create perfectly stuffed and fried onion rings that will have everyone coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy a deliciously cheesy experience with these Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings!

Happy cooking!

Yield: 4

Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings Recipe

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Onion rings are a classic appetizer, loved for their crispy exterior and savory flavor. This recipe takes them to a new level by stuffing them with gooey mozzarella cheese. The result is a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors—crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Whether you're serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings are sure to be a hit.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Onion Rings:
• 2 large onions
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• For the Cheese Filling:
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions:
   Peel and slice the onions into thick rings (about ½ inch thick). Carefully separate the rings and set aside.
   
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
   In a mixing bowl, combine shredded mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   
3. Stuff the Onion Rings:
   Take a larger onion ring and fill it with about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Place a smaller ring on top to create a stuffed onion ring. Repeat until all onion rings are filled.
   
4. Prepare for Breading:
   In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   In a second bowl, whisk the eggs.
   In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
   
5. Bread the Onion Rings:
   Dip each stuffed onion ring into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
   Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
   Finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat for all stuffed onion rings.
   
6. Fry the Onion Rings:
   In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
   Carefully add a few onion rings to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
   Remove the fried onion rings with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
   
7. Serve:
   Serve the cheesy stuffed mozzarella onion rings warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.

Notes

• Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier version, bake the stuffed onion rings at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese types such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
• Dipping Sauce: These onion rings pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy mustard dip.