Crispy on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside, these Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings take a classic appetizer to the next level. Thick onion slices are filled with melty mozzarella, coated in a seasoned crispy crust, and fried to golden perfection. They’re perfect for gatherings, game nights, or whenever you’re craving a cheesy snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These onion rings combine two favorites in one bite: crispy fried onions and stretchy melted cheese. The contrast between the crunchy coating and the soft, gooey center makes them absolutely satisfying. They’re easy to prepare with simple ingredients, customizable with different seasonings, and guaranteed to impress guests. Whether served as an appetizer or a party snack, they disappear fast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large onions
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings, about 1/2 inch wide. Separate the rings and pair similar-sized rings together, placing a smaller ring inside a larger one to create space for the filling.
Cut the mozzarella into strips that fit snugly between the onion ring pairs. Press the cheese into the gap between the two rings. Repeat with remaining onions and cheese.
Place the stuffed rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 to 45 minutes. This helps the cheese stay inside while frying.
Prepare three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; one with beaten eggs mixed with milk; and one with breadcrumbs.
Dip each frozen stuffed onion ring into the seasoned flour, coating evenly. Then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the onion rings in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve hot while the cheese is still melted and stretchy.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Freezing time: 30 to 45 minutes
Cooking time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
For a spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Try using cheddar, provolone, or a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
For an herb-infused version, add dried oregano or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs.
If you prefer baking, place the coated rings on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. An air fryer also works well at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy and cause the cheese to leak out.
FAQs
Can I make these onion rings ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and coat them in advance, then freeze until ready to fry. Fry directly from frozen for best results.
Why do I need to freeze the stuffed onion rings?
Freezing helps keep the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during frying.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, regular breadcrumbs work fine, though panko creates a crispier texture.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Make sure each ring is thoroughly coated in flour before dipping into the egg mixture, and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface.
Can I air fry these onion rings?
Yes, cook them in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
What sauces pair well with these onion rings?
They taste great with marinara sauce, garlic sauce, ranch-style dip, or a spicy chili sauce.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How thick should I slice the onions?
Slices about 1/2 inch thick work best to hold the cheese filling securely.
Can I use string cheese instead of block mozzarella?
Yes, string cheese is a convenient option and melts perfectly inside the onion rings.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. With their crispy golden coating and gooey cheese center, they deliver incredible flavor and texture in every bite. Easy to customize and perfect for sharing, this recipe is sure to become a go-to appetizer for any occasion.
These Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are crispy and golden on the outside with a gooey, melty mozzarella center. Thick onion slices are stuffed, breaded, and fried to perfection, creating the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack.
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Yield:4–6 servings
Ingredients
2 large onions
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Slice onions into 1/2-inch thick rings and separate them. Pair a smaller ring inside a larger ring to create space for filling.
Cut mozzarella into strips and press between the paired onion rings to fill the gap.
Place stuffed rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30–45 minutes.
Prepare three bowls: seasoned flour (flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika), egg mixed with milk, and breadcrumbs.
Dip each frozen ring into flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb coating for extra crispiness.
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot while cheese is melted and stretchy.
Notes
Freezing helps prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
Do not overcrowd the pan while frying.
Press breadcrumbs firmly onto rings for better coating.
Reheat in oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F.
