Crispy Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings

Step 2: Stuff the Onion Rings

1. Take a mozzarella stick or a small piece of mozzarella and insert it into the middle of each onion ring.
2. For extra stability, you can slightly overlap two thinner rings and place the cheese in between.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

1. Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
2. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
3. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Coat the Onion Rings

1. Dredge each stuffed onion ring in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Finally, roll it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.

Tip: Double coating (flour → egg → breadcrumbs → egg → breadcrumbs) gives extra crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Onion Rings

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
3. Arrange the coated onion rings on the sheet without overlapping.
4. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil to enhance browning.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the baked onion rings cool for a minute or two—they’ll firm up slightly while still keeping the mozzarella gooey.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce: marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli all pair wonderfully.

Tips for Maximum Crispiness

• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones—they give a lighter, crunchier texture.
• Make sure the onion rings are dry before coating; moisture can prevent the coating from crisping.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; air circulation helps them brown evenly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Crispy Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings balance crunchy exteriors with gooey cheesy centers, making them irresistible. They’re lighter than fried versions, simple to prepare, and perfect for snacking, game nights, or as a side dish for burgers or sandwiches.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut method to make them even crispier and faster, using a small tweak that professional chefs use. It keeps them crunchy without deep-frying.

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