Name: Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large onions – peeled and cut into thick rings (about 1/2 inch); 10–12 mozzarella sticks – cut into smaller pieces to fit inside the onion rings; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs – beaten; 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs – panko works best for an extra-crispy coating; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil – for frying; Marinara sauce; Ranch dressing; Spicy mayo

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These mozzarella stick onion rings are the ultimate cheesy snack, combining two beloved appetizers into one irresistible dish. With gooey mozzarella nestled inside crispy onion rings, they're perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party, watching the big game, or just craving a delicious snack, these cheesy onion rings will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mozzarella stick onion rings are the perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy goodness. The crispy panko breadcrumb coating adds an extra crunch, while the warm, gooey mozzarella provides the perfect creamy center. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they pair perfectly with marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

2 large onions – peeled and cut into thick rings (about ½ inch)
10–12 mozzarella sticks – cut into smaller pieces to fit inside the onion rings
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs – beaten
1 ½ cups breadcrumbs – panko works best for an extra-crispy coating
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil – for frying

Optional for Serving:

Marinara sauce
Ranch dressing
Spicy mayo

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Onion Rings and Mozzarella:
- Slice the onions into thick rings and carefully separate them into individual rings. Choose rings that are about the same size to make pairing easier. Cut the mozzarella sticks into pieces that will fit snugly between two onion layers. Place one mozzarella piece between two onion rings to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining onions and mozzarella.
Set Up the Breading Station:
- Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Onion Rings:
- Take each mozzarella-stuffed onion ring and coat it lightly in flour, making sure all parts are covered. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Coat the onion ring thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps one more time.
Fry the Onion Rings:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onion rings in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Transfer the fried onion rings to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the mozzarella stick onion rings immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Baked Version: For a lighter alternative, bake the breaded mozzarella stick onion rings at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Spicy Option: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist on this recipe.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free while still keeping the crunch intact.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover mozzarella stick onion rings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
Reheating: To keep the onion rings crispy, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes on each side, but avoid microwaving to preserve the crunch.

FAQs

Can I make these mozzarella stick onion rings ahead of time?

You can prepare the onion rings and bread them in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Fry them fresh for the best texture.

Can I freeze mozzarella stick onion rings?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded mozzarella stick onion rings before frying. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to fry, cook from frozen.

What dipping sauces go well with mozzarella stick onion rings?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, and spicy mayo are popular choices, but you can also try barbecue sauce, garlic aioli, or blue cheese dressing.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light and crispy texture, but you can substitute regular breadcrumbs if necessary. Just keep in mind they may not be as crispy.

How do I make sure the mozzarella doesn't melt out of the onion rings?

Make sure to coat the mozzarella stick pieces in the flour and breadcrumbs thoroughly, and avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to ensure even cooking.

Can I bake these mozzarella stick onion rings instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp. Baking will be a healthier alternative but still delicious!

Can I use any other cheese besides mozzarella?

Mozzarella is the best cheese for a stretchy, gooey center, but you could experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

How do I make the onion rings crispier?

Double coating the onion rings with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs helps ensure a crispier texture. Panko breadcrumbs also contribute to the crunchiness.

How do I prevent the cheese from spilling out while frying?

Be sure the onion rings are tightly packed with cheese, and don’t overcrowd the oil while frying. This will help ensure the cheese stays inside during cooking.

Can I use pre-cut frozen onion rings for this recipe?

While fresh onion rings work best, you can use frozen, pre-cut onion rings for convenience. Just make sure they’re properly thawed and crispy when served.

Conclusion

Mozzarella stick onion rings are an irresistible combination of crispy and cheesy that everyone will love. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack or an appetizer, these cheesy treats will be a crowd-pleaser. With their crispy coating and gooey mozzarella center, they’re a perfect bite every time. Enjoy them fresh and hot with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate snack experience!