Print

Cheesy Mozzarella Onion Ring Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 72 reviews

Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings combine the crispy outside of classic onion rings with the gooey, melty center of mozzarella cheese. This delicious appetizer features onion rings stuffed with mozzarella strips, coated in a double layer of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Served hot with tangy marinara sauce, they make an irresistible snack or party treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 large white onions
  • 3 slices mozzarella cheese

Dredging and Coating

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 5 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs

For Frying and Serving

  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying
  • Marinara sauce, for dipping

Instructions

  1. Slice Onions: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/2-inch-thick rings. Carefully separate the rings to maintain their shape.
  2. Prepare Cheese Filling: Slice the mozzarella cheese into 4 even strips. Nest a smaller onion ring inside a larger one, then fill the gap between them with mozzarella strips. Continue this process with the remaining onion rings and cheese.
  3. Freeze Stuffed Rings: Arrange the stuffed onion rings in a single layer on a tray. Freeze them for 1 hour until they are firm to the touch, which helps maintain their shape during frying.
  4. Set Up Coating Stations: Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with plain breadcrumbs. Remove the frozen onion rings from the freezer.
  5. Dredge and Coat: Dip each stuffed onion ring first in flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more. Place the coated rings on a tray and freeze until ready to fry.
  6. Deep Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onion rings in batches, turning occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Avoid over-frying to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
  7. Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Freezing the stuffed rings before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese leakage.
  • Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) before frying to achieve a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
  • Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs adds extra crunch to the rings.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for best melting results.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, as the crust can lose crispness if left to sit.