Directions to follow

1. Prepare the onions: Start by peeling and slicing the onions into 1/2-inch thick rings. Carefully separate the rings and match them by size—take a smaller ring and place it inside a larger one, leaving a little gap.
2. Stuff with cheese: Insert strips of mozzarella cheese into the space between each pair of onion rings, pressing gently to secure. Lay the stuffed rings on a plate and freeze them for about 30 minutes to maintain their shape during frying.
3. Set up your breading station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Season the flour and breadcrumbs lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Bread the rings: After chilling, dredge each stuffed ring in flour, dip it into the egg, and coat it in breadcrumbs. For an extra crunchy texture, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
5. Fry until golden: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). In batches, fry the onion rings for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them and drain on paper towels.
6. Make the garlic butter: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If you’re using parsley, stir that in as well.
7. Serve and dip: Brush or drizzle the garlic butter over the hot onion rings. You can also serve it on the side as a delightful dipping sauce. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving these Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings can be just as fun as making them! You can pair them with various dipping sauces—think marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick. Consider plating them on a rustic wooden board for a casual vibe, or serve them alongside burgers or grilled meats for an elevated meal.

How to store

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them after frying. Just make sure they cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last for up to 2 months. Reheat in a hot oven for best results.

Helpful cooking tips

• Cheese options: String cheese is a great choice if you want portion control or easy handling, while fresh mozzarella can create an even creamier texture.
• For extra crunch: Feel free to add some finely grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
• Safety first: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying; too low, and they’ll absorb oil; too high, and they’ll burn. A thermometer is handy here.

Creative twists

Once you’ve mastered the classic version of these stuffed onion rings, the possibilities are endless. Try adding finely chopped jalapeños or spices like cayenne pepper to the cheese for a spicy kick. For a herby twist, mix in your favorite dried herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning, into the breadcrumbs. You can even experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites!

Common questions

What’s the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation and cooking can take about 1 hour in total, but a lot of that is chill time for the rings to ensure they keep their shape.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your cheesy filling. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses can bring new flavors.

How do I keep the onion rings crispy when reheating?

For the best texture, reheat the rings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crunchiness without steaming them.

Now you’re all set to indulge in these delicious Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter. Happy cooking!