Why make this recipe

Air Fryer Onion Rings are a delightful twist on a classic snack, combining the same crispy texture and flavorful crunch without the added calories and grease of traditional frying. The air fryer utilizes hot air circulation to achieve that golden-brown exterior while maintaining a tender inside, making these onion rings a healthier yet indulgent option. Plus, they are quick to prepare and incredibly versatile—perfect for parties, game day, or a fun snack any time!

How to make Air Fryer Onion Rings

Making Air Fryer Onion Rings is an easy process that results in a delicious appetizer or side dish that everyone will love. The ingredients list is simple, and the cooking method requires minimal effort, making it a fantastic choice for any home chef.

Ingredients

2 large yellow onions, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Set up three bowls:
One with flour seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
The second with the beaten eggs.
The third with a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dip each onion ring first in the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat thoroughly.
Place the coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the onion rings are golden and crispy.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to serve Air Fryer Onion Rings

Air Fryer Onion Rings are best served immediately after cooking, while they are still warm and crispy. Pair them with dipping sauces such as classic ranch, zesty ketchup, creamy aioli, or tangy barbecue sauce for a delightful flavor combination. They make a fantastic side dish for burgers and sandwiches or can be enjoyed on their own as a satisfying snack.

How to store Air Fryer Onion Rings

To store leftover Air Fryer Onion Rings, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture—avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Tips to make Air Fryer Onion Rings

For extra flavor, try marinating the onion rings in buttermilk for a couple of hours before breading.
Experiment with the seasoning in the flour mixture to add your favorite herbs or spices.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Variation

You can switch things up by adding different cheeses to the breadcrumb mixture or spices such as cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. For a twist on the classic, try adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, following the same coating process for air-fried vegetable rings.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of onions such as sweet Vidalia onions or red onions. Each type will provide a slightly different flavor profile!

2. Can I make these onion rings in advance?
While they are best fresh, you can prepare the onion rings ahead of time by coating them and storing them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.

3. Are these onion rings suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze the breaded onion rings before cooking them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, you don’t need to thaw them, but you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.