Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings Recipe: The Ultimate Cheesy Snack

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There’s nothing quite like the combination of crispy, golden onion rings and gooey, melty mozzarella sticks—so why not combine them? If you love cheesy appetizers with a satisfying crunch, this Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings Recipe is a must-try.

Picture this: thick onion rings stuffed with mozzarella cheese, coated in a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb crust, and fried until golden brown. Every bite is a delicious blend of crunch, creaminess, and savory goodness. Whether you’re making these for game night, a party, or just a fun snack, they’ll disappear fast!

Ready to make the ultimate cheese-stuffed onion rings? Let’s get started!


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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy & Cheesy – The crunchy coating perfectly contrasts with the melty mozzarella.
  • Perfect for Sharing – A great party appetizer or snack that everyone will love.
  • Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly.
  • Customizable – Add spices, swap cheeses, or bake instead of frying.

Ingredients for Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings

Main Ingredients

IngredientQuantityNotes
Large onions2Use sweet or yellow onions for best flavor
Mozzarella cheese sticks8Cut into pieces to fit inside the onion rings
Eggs2 largeHelps the coating stick
All-purpose flour1 cupCreates a base for the crispy coating
Salt & pepperTo tasteEnhances flavor
Breadcrumbs2 cupsUse panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
OilFor fryingUse vegetable or canola oil

This simple list of ingredients turns into an unforgettable snack in just a few steps!

How to Make Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings

Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings

  1. Peel and slice the onions into thick rings (about ½-inch wide).
  2. Separate the rings, choosing larger outer rings to use.

Step 2: Cut & Insert the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. Cut mozzarella sticks into smaller pieces.
  2. Place a piece of cheese inside two stacked onion rings, creating a cheese-filled onion ring.
  3. Repeat until all rings are stuffed.

Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings

  1. Set up a breading station with three bowls:
    • Bowl 1: Flour, salt, and pepper
    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
    • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs
  2. Dip each cheese-stuffed onion ring into the flour, coating evenly.
  3. Next, dip into the egg mixture.
  4. Finally, coat in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Repeat for all rings.

Step 4: Freeze the Rings (Important Step!)

  • Place coated rings on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
  • This prevents the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden & Crispy

  1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
  2. Fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  3. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Serve hot with marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping.

Tips for the Best Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings

  • Use panko breadcrumbs – They create the crispiest texture.
  • Double-coat for extra crunch – Repeat the breading process for a thicker coating.
  • Freeze before frying – Prevents the cheese from oozing out too soon.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches for even cooking.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Take these crispy cheese-stuffed onion rings to the next level with these delicious dips:

Dipping SauceFlavor Profile
Marinara SauceClassic tomato flavor
Garlic AioliCreamy and garlicky
Ranch DressingCool and tangy
Spicy MayoA little heat with creamy richness
BBQ SauceSmoky and slightly sweet

Variations and Substitutions

Make It Spicier

  • Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumbs.
  • Serve with hot sauce or sriracha mayo.

Try a Different Cheese

  • Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda.

Baked Instead of Fried

  • Place rings on a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Gluten-Free Version

  • Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Health Benefits & Nutritional Breakdown

While this is an indulgent snack, you can still enjoy it in moderation!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate)

NutrientAmountBenefits
Calories250–300Provides energy
Protein8–10gSupports muscle growth
Carbohydrates20–25gA quick source of fuel
Fiber2gAids digestion
Healthy Fats10–15gSupports brain function

For a lighter version, try baking instead of frying and using low-fat cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bread and freeze the rings in advance. Fry or bake just before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. How do I reheat them?

  • Air fryer: 350°F for 3–5 minutes.
  • Oven: 375°F for 10 minutes.

4. Can I use different onions?

Yes! Sweet onions, yellow onions, or white onions work best.

5. Why is my cheese leaking out?

  • Make sure to freeze before frying.
  • Use a thicker coating of breadcrumbs.
  • Fry at the right temperature (350°F)—not too hot!

6. What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve hot with dipping sauces, a side salad, or fries for a full meal!

Final Thoughts: Try This Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings Recipe Today!

If you love cheesy, crispy, and satisfying snacks, these Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings are a must-try. With melty cheese inside, crunchy coating outside, and endless dipping possibilities, they’re a guaranteed hit!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and make this mouthwatering recipe today!

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Crispy Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings Recipe: The Ultimate Cheesy Snack

These Vegan Cabbage Rolls (Asian-Inspired Wraps) are a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional cabbage rolls! Packed with a flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and seasonings, all wrapped in tender napa cabbage leaves and coated in a savory Asian-inspired sauce, this dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or special occasions.

  • Author: ating
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

Filling Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 cups dry sushi rice (or any short-grain rice)
  • 1012 large napa cabbage leaves
  • 1 tbsp oil (divided)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3/4 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced (120 g)
  • 2 medium peppers, diced (70 g)
  • 8 white button mushrooms, diced (canned or fresh)
  • 2 tbsp tamari or coconut aminos
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp oil (e.g., sesame oil)
  • 1/2 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 tbsp tamari or coconut aminos
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 3/4 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup water (120 ml)
  • 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
  • Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice:
    • Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
    • Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool.
  2. Blanch the Cabbage Leaves:
    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
    • Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 30-40 seconds until they become soft and pliable.
    • Remove and place them on a towel to dry.
  3. Cook the Filling:
    • Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
    • Add diced onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Stir in carrots, peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
    • Add tamari, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
    • Mix in cooked rice and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:
    • Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
    • Place a spoonful of the filling in the center.
    • Fold the sides of the cabbage over the filling, then roll tightly from bottom to top like a burrito.
    • Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
  5. Make the Sauce:
    • Heat 1 tsp oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
    • Add ginger and garlic, sauté for 30 seconds.
    • Stir in tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and water.
    • Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir into the sauce to thicken.
    • Cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  6. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
    • Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium heat.
    • Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
    • Pour the sauce over the rolls and simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Garnish & Serve:
    • Sprinkle sesame seeds over the rolls.
    • Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Blanching the cabbage leaves helps prevent tearing.
  • Add tofu, tempeh, or lentils for extra protein.
  • Serve with steamed jasmine rice, miso soup, or an Asian slaw.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat by steaming or microwaving for 1-2 minutes.
  • Can be frozen before cooking; thaw in the fridge overnight before steaming or pan-frying.

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