Crispy, golden, and oh-so-delicious, these Air Fryer Onion Rings are a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic favorite! Lightly coated with a perfectly seasoned crunch, these onion rings are easy to make, require minimal oil, and turn out irresistibly crispy every time. Serve them as a side, snack, or game-day treat—you’ll never want to deep-fry again!
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Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Onion Rings
- Crispy & Crunchy: Get that deep-fried texture without the excess oil.
- Healthier Alternative: Less grease means a lighter, better-for-you snack.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for a fast craving fix!
- Perfectly Seasoned: A blend of spices gives these onion rings a flavor boost.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Onion Rings
- 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or yellow), sliced into ½-inch rings
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray (for crispiness)
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (for prepping)
How to Make Air Fryer Onion Rings
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
- Peel and slice the onion into ½-inch thick rings. Separate them gently.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
- In the first bowl, whisk together flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In the second bowl, beat the buttermilk and egg until combined.
- In the third bowl, mix panko and regular breadcrumbs for the ultimate crunch.
Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings
- Dip each onion ring into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s well covered.
- Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the coated onion rings in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Spray the tops of the onion rings with a little cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Enjoy crispy onion rings without the guilt!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo.
- Pair with burgers, sandwiches, or as a party snack.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Onion Rings
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the crispiest texture!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches to ensure even crisping.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch: Repeat the buttermilk and breadcrumb step for an ultra-crispy coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: This ensures a crispy, golden crust.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked, breaded onion rings on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes! Try crushed cornflakes or almond flour for a different texture.
Q2: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Q3: Can I use regular onions instead of sweet onions?
A: Yes, but sweet onions like Vidalia give a milder flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy coating.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Crispy Onion Rings!
These Air Fryer Onion Rings are crispy, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to make. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side, or party favorite, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy crunchy goodness without the guilt!
Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your culinary creations.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy these crispy onion rings, and happy air frying!
Print
Air Fryer Onion Rings
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
Crispy, golden, and oh-so-delicious, these Air Fryer Onion Rings are a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic favorite! Lightly coated with a perfectly seasoned crunch, these onion rings are easy to make, require minimal oil, and turn out irresistibly crispy every time. Serve them as a side, snack, or game-day treat—you’ll never want to deep-fry again!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or yellow), sliced into ½-inch rings
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray (for crispiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
- Peel and slice the onion into ½-inch thick rings. Separate them gently.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
- In the first bowl, whisk together flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In the second bowl, beat the buttermilk and egg until combined.
- In the third bowl, mix panko and regular breadcrumbs for the ultimate crunch.
Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings
- Dip each onion ring into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s well covered.
- Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the coated onion rings in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Spray the tops of the onion rings with a little cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Enjoy crispy onion rings without the guilt!
Notes
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the crispiest texture!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches to ensure even crisping.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch: Repeat the buttermilk and breadcrumb step for an ultra-crispy coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: This ensures a crispy, golden crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American
