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
Scale
- 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