Crunchy Air-Fried Onion Rings

Onion rings have long held their place as a beloved snack and side dish, cherished for their crunchy exterior and the sweet, tender onion nestled within. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, served alongside burgers, or as a standalone snack, these golden rings have an undeniable appeal that transcends age and occasion. The crispy texture and rich flavor make onion rings a versatile addition to any meal, and the good news is that you can create this classic treat right in your kitchen.

Discover the joy of making crispy air-fried onion rings at home! This delicious snack combines the sweet tenderness of onions with a perfectly crunchy coating, thanks to the revolutionary air frying method that uses less oil for a healthier twist. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress family and friends with this classic treat. Perfect for any occasion, these onion rings promise satisfaction in every bite. Get ready to elevate your culinary game and indulge guilt-free!

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Ingredients

2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into 1/4-inch rings

1 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup cornmeal

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Cooking spray or olive oil spray for air frying

Instructions

Prepare the Onion Rings: Begin by slicing the onions into 1/4-inch thick rings, separating the ring shapes from each other. Set aside.

Marinate in Buttermilk: In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the onion rings, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the onions to soak up the flavor.

Set Up the Breading Station: In one shallow dish, add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. In a second shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.

Bread the Onion Rings: Remove the onion rings from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each ring first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess, then dip in the panko and cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded onion rings in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches.

Air Fry the Onion Rings: Spray the tops of the onion rings lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the onion rings from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, ketchup, or spicy aioli. Enjoy your crunchy air-fried onion rings!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 45 mins | 4 servings