Step-by-step instructions
Let’s get into the fun part — cooking! Follow these simple directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Mix until everything is well-blended, then season with salt and pepper.
- Slice the onion into thick rounds and gently separate the rings. To create a ring bowl, take two onion rings and place them together.
- Pack the burger mixture into the onion ring bowl, pressing down to secure the filling. Repeat with the remaining rings.
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dip each stuffed onion ring first into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
- Place the coated onion rings into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until the onion rings are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
- Remove from the air fryer, let cool for a moment, and serve hot. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving these gooey wonders, the possibilities are endless! For a true feast, pair them with a light salad or some crispy fries. You can also set up a dipping station with classics like ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy mayo for an extra kick.
Feel free to get creative with your presentation — stack the onion rings high on a platter and sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Not only will they taste amazing, but they’ll also look gorgeous on your table!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! To keep your onion rings fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. If you want to freeze them, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat from frozen!
Helpful cooking tips
To set yourself up for success with this recipe, here are a few handy tips:
- Make sure the ground beef is well-seasoned, as it’s the star of the filling. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper!
- For easier handling, use wet hands while packing the mixture into the onion rings.
- If you want an extra crispy texture, double-coat your onion rings in breadcrumbs by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
Creative twists
Feel like experimenting? Here are some fun variations:
- Spice it up by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the burger mixture for a fiery kick.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack for extra flavor or mozzarella for a gooey stretch.
- For a healthier twist, substitute the macaroni for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter take.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these onion rings?
Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, while cooking in the air fryer adds another 10-12 minutes. You’ll have a delicious snack in under an hour!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to adapt this recipe to be gluten-free.
What’s the best way to store cooked onion rings?
Allow them to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Give these Gooey Cheesy Bacon Mac Burger Stuffed Onion Rings a try for your next gathering, and watch as they steal the show!
