Easy Cheesy Onion Rings – Baked Mozzarella Perfection!
These Easy Cheesy Onion Rings are the perfect baked alternative to traditional fried snacks. Each ring is stuffed with rich mozzarella, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust, and baked until golden and crispy. They deliver the perfect pull of gooey cheese with every bite—comforting, crowd-pleasing, and irresistibly crunchy. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they bring cheesy satisfaction to any meal.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions
- 200g mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded and molded into rings)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
- Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings, about ½ inch wide. Carefully separate the rings and pair them by size—one smaller inside a larger one.
- Stuff the onion rings: Place mozzarella cheese between two rings to form a filled ring. Press them gently so the cheese stays in place.
- Set up three bowls: One with seasoned flour (mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika), one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each ring: Dip the filled onion ring first in the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
- Chill the rings: Place coated rings on the tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This helps the coating hold better during baking.
- Bake the onion rings: Spray each ring lightly with olive oil. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Cool slightly before serving: Let them rest for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
To ensure even cheese distribution, press shredded mozzarella into compact rings before assembling.
Double-coating enhances crunch and helps seal the cheese.
For spicier flavor, add cayenne or chili flakes to the flour or breadcrumb mix.
These rings are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven for crispiness.
If substituting with other cheeses, use firm melting types like provolone or gouda.