Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers, these cheesy stuffed mozzarella onion rings are unbeatable. They combine the satisfying crunch of golden onion rings with the gooey, stretchy delight of melted mozzarella tucked inside. I love serving these at gatherings because they’re fun, unexpected, and always the first to disappear. What makes them special is the combination of flavors—the sweetness of the onion, the richness of the cheese, and the crispiness of the coating. These onion rings aren’t just a snack; they feel like a treat, perfect for movie nights, parties, or game-day spreads. I tried them once with smoked mozzarella, and the hint of smokiness elevated the flavor even more. Whether you dip them in marinara, ranch, or even spicy aioli, these cheesy onion rings are guaranteed to impress.
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Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings – The Ultimate Indulgent Snack
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Yield: 12–15 stuffed rings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy golden onion rings stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection for the ultimate cheesy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese block (cut into sticks)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Peel onions and cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices. Separate into large rings.
- Place a piece of mozzarella stick between two onion rings, creating a stuffed ring.
- Coat each stuffed onion ring in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat in breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Repeat for extra crunch if desired.
- Place coated rings on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to help them hold their shape.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry stuffed onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce.
Notes
- Freezing before frying helps prevent cheese from oozing out.
- For a baked version, place coated rings on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Try using seasoned breadcrumbs or adding Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour freezing time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Large onions – The base of the recipe. Choose firm, large onions that can be cut into thick rings for stuffing.
Mozzarella cheese – The star of the filling, creating that irresistible melty, stretchy center. String cheese works well for easy stuffing.
All-purpose flour – Provides the first coating that helps the batter stick to the onion rings.
Cornstarch – Mixed with flour, it adds lightness and ensures the coating crisps beautifully.
Eggs – Act as a binding agent, helping breadcrumbs adhere securely to the rings.
Breadcrumbs – The key to crunch. Use panko for extra crispiness, or regular breadcrumbs for a classic bite.
Garlic powder – Enhances the flavor of the coating with a subtle savory note.
Paprika – Adds mild warmth and a hint of smokiness to the breading.
Salt – Essential for seasoning both the batter and the breadcrumbs.
Black pepper – Brings balance and a gentle heat to the coating.
Vegetable oil – Used for deep frying. Choose a neutral oil that won’t overpower the flavor of the onion and cheese.
Directions
Begin by peeling and slicing the onions into thick rings, about ½ inch wide. Carefully separate the rings, pairing two similar-sized rings together to form a hollow space for the cheese. Cut mozzarella sticks or slices to fit inside the onion rings, then sandwich the cheese between two rings to hold it in place.
Next, set up your breading station. In one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third, place the breadcrumbs seasoned with black pepper. Dip each stuffed onion ring into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat generously with breadcrumbs. For an extra-crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Carefully drop in the onion rings a few at a time, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 as an appetizer. Prep takes around 20 minutes, and frying requires about 15 minutes. Altogether, you’ll need 35 minutes from start to finish.
Storage/reheating
These onion rings are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the coating soggy.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy version – Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb coating for a fiery kick.
Herbed onion rings – Mix dried oregano, thyme, or parsley into the breadcrumbs for a fragrant twist.
Smoked mozzarella – Swap regular mozzarella for smoked cheese to give the rings a deeper, more complex flavor.
Double cheese – Combine mozzarella with a sharper cheese like cheddar for extra richness.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs without sacrificing crispiness.
Baked onion rings – For a lighter option, bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until golden and crispy.
Stuffed with jalapeños – Add thin slices of jalapeño along with the mozzarella for cheesy heat.
Parmesan crusted – Mix grated parmesan into the breadcrumbs for a nutty, cheesy crust.
Mini bites – Use smaller onion rings for bite-sized snacks, perfect for parties.
Dipping platter – Serve with a trio of sauces—marinara, garlic aioli, and spicy ranch—for variety.
FAQs
Can I use frozen onion rings for this recipe?
No, fresh onion rings are needed to stuff with mozzarella properly.
What cheese works best besides mozzarella?
Cheddar, provolone, or gouda are good alternatives for different flavor profiles.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out while frying?
Double-coating in breadcrumbs helps seal the cheese inside.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Conclusion
Cheesy stuffed mozzarella onion rings are everything you want in a snack—crispy, golden, and filled with gooey cheese. They bring together familiar flavors in a creative way that never fails to impress. Perfect as a party appetizer, a side dish, or even a movie-night indulgence, these onion rings are easy to customize with spices, different cheeses, or fun dipping sauces. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re such a hit: each bite is a satisfying combination of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth cheese. This recipe is proof that a simple twist on a classic can turn into something extraordinary.