Crispy Garlic-Parmesan Onion Rings

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There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried onion ring. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a fun snack, these crispy rings deliver a burst of flavor and texture that’s hard to resist. This recipe scores extra points by adding a garlicky punch and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, resulting in an irresistible mix of savory goodness.

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Ingredients

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  • 2 large sweet onions, sliced into ½-inch thick rings
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ⅔ cup buttermilk (or regular milk in a pinch)
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Cooking spray (or vegetable oil for frying)

Instructions

Start by preparing three separate bowls for dredging. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, combine the egg and buttermilk until fully blended. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese.

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Dip each onion ring first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, submerge the ring into the egg-buttermilk bowl, coating thoroughly. Finally, press the ring into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Set the coated rings aside on a tray.

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If frying, heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add a few onion rings at a time and fry until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel. For baking, arrange the rings on a greased baking sheet, then spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even coloring.

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These Garlic-Parmesan Onion Rings are perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or a comforting snack for any onion lover. Their crunchy texture and robust flavor profile make them a crowd-pleaser, while the baking option offers a lighter choice if you’re watching oil intake. You can even try swapping in gluten-free flour or panko for a GF version, or spice up the breadcrumbs with chili flakes if you crave heat. Whichever path you choose, these rings will bring savory satisfaction to the table!

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.