The Ultimate Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings: A Fried Food Dream

Get ready to level up your snack game, because we’re about to combine two iconic fried favorites into one mind-blowing treat. Yes, we’re talking about Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings. These crispy, cheesy rings of joy bring together the best of mozzarella sticks and onion rings in one gooey, golden-brown bite. Why settle for just one snack when you can have both?

Whether you’re hosting a game night, needing a movie snack, or simply satisfying a fried-food craving, these are sure to be the crowd-pleaser (even if the crowd is just you and your dog). Let’s dive in, shall we?

Photo bySam Miller

Key Takeaways

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 (depending on how many you’re willing to share)
• Calories per Serving: 240

These mozzarella-stuffed onion rings are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and the perfect combination of crispy and gooey. Serve them with your favorite dip, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

Get your ingredients together before you start drooling over these cheesy onion wonders:

• 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks (about 1/4-inch thick)
• 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (because every great fried food starts with flour)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (egg-cellent choice)
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs (Panko works best for extra crunch)
• Cooking oil (vegetable or canola, for frying)
• Optional seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika to spice things up

Directions: Turning Ingredients Into Magic

1. Cheese First, Always

Cut your mozzarella into sticks that are around 1/4-inch thick. These need to fit comfortably inside the onion rings. If you find yourself nibbling on the cheese before it makes it to the onion, don’t worry, it’s part of the process.

2. Slice and Separate the Onion

Slice your onion into 1/2-inch rings. Carefully separate the rings, keeping the larger outer rings and pairing them with smaller ones that fit snugly inside. Discard the tiny middle rings (or save them for something else if you’re feeling frugal).

3. Stuff Like You Mean It

Place a smaller ring inside a larger ring to create a nice gap for stuffing. Now, wedge the mozzarella sticks between the two layers of onion until the gap is completely filled. This is where the magic happens, folks.

Photo bySam Miller

4. Set Up Your Dredging Station

Grab three bowls:

• Bowl 1: Flour
• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
• Bowl 3: Bread crumbs (seasoned if you like a little extra flavor)

5. Coat ‘Em Like a Pro

Working one at a time, dredge the stuffed onion ring in flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Next, dip it in the egg, letting the excess drip off. Finally, roll it around in the bread crumbs. For an extra crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps. Double coating = double the crunch.

6. Fry It Up

Heat your oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat (around 350°F, if you want to be precise). Test the temperature by tossing in a small piece of bread—it should turn golden in 20-30 seconds. Once the oil is ready, fry your rings in batches for about 2-3 minutes, flipping them once until they’re a perfect golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to soak up the excess oil.

7. Serve Hot (Because No One Likes Cold Cheese)

Pile those crispy, cheesy beauties on a plate, serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear faster than you can say "mozzarella-stuffed onion rings."

Side Dish Ideas

Need a little extra to go with these fabulous fried rings? Here are a few ideas:

1. French Fries: Because, why not? More fried food is always a good idea.
2. Caesar Salad: Add a little green to balance out the fried goodness (even if it’s just for show).
3. Buffalo Wings: The classic pairing of cheese and wings is unbeatable.
4. Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy side is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the onion rings.
5. Loaded Nachos: If you're going all-in on indulgence, make it a full-on comfort food spread.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 240
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 310mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 7g

Photo bySam Miller

Conclusion: Why Stop at Just One?

These mozzarella-stuffed onion rings aren’t just a snack; they’re a reason to celebrate. Whether you’re serving them at a party, whipping them up for a weekend treat, or just giving yourself a well-deserved fried food moment, these rings will hit the spot every single time.

Don't forget to experiment with different dips and seasonings to keep things exciting. After all, you deserve snacks that are as bold and fun as you are. Now, get frying and enjoy every gooey, crunchy bite!