Mini Cheesy Onion Rings are a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional onion rings. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, parties, or as a side dish. Coated with a flavorful blend of almond flour, spices, and cheese, these onion rings are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create these tasty Mini Cheesy Onion Rings step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
- Slice Onions: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and set aside.
- Season Almond Flour: In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 2: Coat the Onion Rings
- Beat Eggs: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
- Grate Cheese: Grate the cheese and place it in a separate bowl.
- Coat in Almond Flour: Dip each onion ring into the almond flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Dip in Egg: Next, dip the almond flour-coated onion ring into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully covered.
- Coat in Cheese: Finally, press the onion ring into the grated cheese, coating it thoroughly. Repeat with all onion rings.
Step 3: Bake or Fry the Onion Rings
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated onion rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the onion rings are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Alternatively, you can fry the onion rings: 11. Heat Oil: Heat a few inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). 12. Fry Onion Rings: Fry the onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the onion rings to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve: Serve the mini cheesy onion rings hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, marinara, or aioli. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights!
Cooking Notes
- Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella cheese both work well for this recipe. Cheddar adds a sharp flavor, while mozzarella gives a gooey texture. Feel free to mix both for the best of both worlds.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat, or omit it for a milder flavor.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy onion rings, bake them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these onion rings ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the onion rings up to the coating step and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking or frying. This makes them a convenient option for parties and gatherings.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
Q: Can I freeze these onion rings? A: Yes, you can freeze the coated, uncooked onion rings. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Bake or fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Keto/Low Carb Version
This recipe is naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet. Using almond flour and cheese keeps the carb count low while adding delicious flavor and texture.
Mini Cheesy Onion Rings are a delightful and low-carb treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy coating and gooey cheese filling, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Try this recipe today and enjoy a tasty and satisfying snack!
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