Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter

Listen up, flavor seekers! I’ve just created the ultimate mash-up that’s about to rock your appetizer world. Imagine the moment when crispy onion rings and gooey mozzarella sticks collide, that’s exactly what’s happening with these Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter. We’re talking sweet onion rings hiding a molten cheese surprise, all finished with a brush of fragrant garlic butter that’ll have you wondering where this recipe has been all your life. Fair warning: these are dangerously addictive!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Mind-Blowing Texture Combo: Crispy exterior, sweet tender onion, and that stretchy, melty cheese pull that dreams are made of.
• Flavor Explosion: The seasoned coating and garlic butter finish create layers of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
• Impressive Presentation: These rings look fancy enough for company but are secretly doable for any home cook.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spices to make them as mild or spicy as you like.

Ingredients

• Large Onions: Sweet varieties like Vidalia work beautifully here; look for firm onions with tight, dry skins.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show that creates that irresistible cheese pull; low-moisture works best.
• All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base of our coating and helps the egg wash stick.
• Eggs: The binding agent that helps create that perfect crispy crust.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch, but regular works great too.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick to the coating.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses the coating with savory flavor without burning like fresh garlic might.
• Onion Powder: Doubles down on that savory onion flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note that elevates the entire dish.
• Salt and Pepper: The non-negotiable seasoning duo.
• Milk: Helps thin the egg mixture for easier coating.
• Frying Oil: Choose one with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola.
• Butter, Garlic, and Parsley: The holy trinity for our finishing garlic butter that takes these rings over the top.

Note: Complete ingredients with measurements will be available in the recipe card below this article.

How to Make the Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings

Slice those beautiful onions into thick rings and play matchmaker by pairing similar-sized rings together. This is where the magic happens, sandwich a strip of mozzarella between each pair, creating little cheese-filled onion packages that’ll make your heart skip a beat.

Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Station

Create your three-bowl assembly line: seasoned flour in one, egg wash in another, and that cheesy breadcrumb mixture in the third. This is your ticket to crispy perfection, so don’t skip any steps!

Step 3: Coat Those Rings

Now for the fun part! Dredge each stuffed ring through your stations, flour first (tap off excess), then a dip in the egg wash, and finally a thorough coating of breadcrumbs. Want extra crunch? Double-coat those babies by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Step 4: Freeze Before Frying

Here’s my non-negotiable secret: pop those coated rings in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is CRUCIAL for keeping that cheese inside where it belongs instead of leaking into your oil. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way so you don’t have to!

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat your oil to that sweet spot of 350°F and gently lower your rings in, a few at a time. Watch them transform into golden-brown masterpieces in just a few minutes. It’s like magic happening right before your eyes!

Step 6: The Garlic Butter Finish

While your rings are still hot, brush them with that aromatic garlic-parsley butter. This final touch is what separates good onion rings from “where have these been all my life?” onion rings.

Pro Tips for Making the Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings

• Size Matters: Cut onion rings at least 1/2-inch thick so they can hold the cheese.
• Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F, too hot and they’ll burn before the cheese melts, too cool and they’ll absorb oil.
• Don’t Skip the Freeze: Those 30 minutes in the freezer are non-negotiable for cheese containment!
• Double-Coating: For extra crunch and better cheese sealing, double-dip in the egg wash and breadcrumbs.

How to Serve

• Dipping Sauces: Marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo all make fantastic companions.
• Game Day Spread: Serve alongside wings, sliders, and cold beverages for the ultimate sports-watching feast.
• Dinner Side: Pair with grilled steaks or burgers for a restaurant-worthy meal at home.
• Presentation: Stack them in a tower with a small bowl of extra garlic butter on the side for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let’s be honest, leftovers are unlikely! But if you have some, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, breaded (but unfried) rings for up to a month. Store with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Microwaving will work in a pinch but will sacrifice that wonderful crispiness.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying?
You can, though they won’t be quite as crispy. Bake at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with cooking oil before baking for better browning.

Why did my cheese leak out during frying?
This usually happens if the rings weren’t sealed well enough or if they weren’t frozen before frying. Make sure to double-coat them and don’t skip the freezing step!

What’s the best type of onion to use?
Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work beautifully, but yellow onions are great too. White onions have a sharper flavor that some people prefer.

Can I make these ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Prepare them up through the breading stage, freeze them solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them straight from frozen when your guests arrive.

These Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter are the kind of show-stopping appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. They’re crispy, gooey, and utterly irresistible, definitely one to keep in your recipe collection for those times when you want to impress. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll understand why we say: Keep This Recipe!