Air Fryer Crispy Onion Rings
why make this recipe
Crispy onion rings are a beloved snack or side dish that adds a crunchy touch to any meal. Making them in an air fryer is a healthier option compared to deep frying. You get the same great taste and crispy texture, but with less oil. Ideal for parties, movie nights, or as a side for burgers, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy onion rings without the guilt!
how to make Air Fryer Version – Crispy Onion Rings
Ingredients :
- 2 large onions
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- optional 1/4 tsp cayenne
- olive oil spray
Directions :
- Peel and slice the onions into 1/2-inch rings.
- Soak the rings in buttermilk mixed with salt for 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
- Set up a three-bowl breading station:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour with salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with a splash of milk.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and optional cayenne.
- Dredge the onion rings in the flour, then dip them in the egg wash, and finally, press them into the panko until well coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray them with olive oil.
- Air fry for 6–7 minutes, flip the rings, and cook for another 5–6 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dips like ranch or spicy mayo.
- Optional: If you want to make them ahead, freeze the breaded rings on a tray, then transfer to bags. When ready, air fry them from frozen at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway through.
how to serve Air Fryer Version – Crispy Onion Rings
Serve your crispy onion rings warm for the best taste. They go great with dips like ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even ketchup. You can also pair them with burgers or as a fun starter for a meal.
how to store Air Fryer Version – Crispy Onion Rings
If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked onion rings. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Air Fryer Version – Crispy Onion Rings
- Soaking the onions in buttermilk adds flavor and helps the batter stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; it’s best to cook in batches to get evenly crispy rings.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste; add extra cayenne for more heat or switch up the seasonings.
variation (if any)
You can experiment with different coatings, such as adding shredded cheese to the panko for extra flavor or using seasoned cornmeal instead of flour for a gluten-free version.
FAQs
Can I skip the buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative, but the flavor may be less rich.
How do I make these onion rings spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or use a spicy seasoning mix in the panko coating for an extra kick.
Can I make onion rings in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the onion rings and freeze them before cooking. Just air fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat!
Crispy Onion Rings
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 large onions Peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 1 cup buttermilk For soaking the onion rings
- 1 tsp salt For soaking and breading
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Used in breading mixture
- 1 cup all-purpose flour For dredging
- 2 large eggs For the egg wash
- 2 tbsp milk Added to egg wash
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs For coating
- 1 tsp garlic powder For added flavor in breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp paprika For seasoning in breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp cayenne Optional for extra heat
- olive oil spray For spraying the onion rings before air frying
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and slice the onions into 1/2-inch rings.
- Soak the rings in buttermilk mixed with salt for 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
- Set up a three-bowl breading station: Bowl 1: Mix flour with salt and pepper. Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with a splash of milk. Bowl 3: Mix panko with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and optional cayenne.
Breading and Cooking
- Dredge the onion rings in the flour, then dip them in the egg wash, and finally, press them into the panko until well coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray them with olive oil.
- Air fry for 6–7 minutes, flip the rings, and cook for another 5–6 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dips like ranch or spicy mayo.
- Optional: If you want to make them ahead, freeze the breaded rings on a tray, then transfer to bags. When ready, air fry them from frozen at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway through.
