Crispy Onion Rings
Enjoy crispy and delicious onion rings made healthier in an air fryer with less oil, perfect as a snack or side dish.
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.
Notes
For best flavor, soak the onions in buttermilk. Don't overcrowd the air fryer for evenly crispy rings. Adjust spices to taste.