Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Golden

Thick-cut onion rings stuffed with melty mozzarella, double-breaded for crunch, and brushed with garlic butter

Introduction: The Ultimate Party Snack

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the crunch of onion rings with the gooey goodness of mozzarella sticks, this recipe is your dream come true. These Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter are bold, indulgent, and absolutely addictive. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a molten cheese pull, all wrapped in a golden breadcrumb crust and kissed with buttery garlic and herbs.

Perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you want to impress your guests (or treat yourself), these stuffed rings are a showstopper. They’re surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these onion rings so irresistible:

For the Onion Rings:

• Yellow onions (2 large)
  Choose firm, round onions for consistent ring sizes.
• Mozzarella cheese sticks (8–10)
  String cheese works best for easy stuffing and perfect melt.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
  Helps the egg adhere and creates a base for the crust.
• Eggs (3 large, beaten)
  Bind the coating and add richness.
• Seasoned breadcrumbs (2 cups)
  Use Italian-style or panko for extra crunch and flavor.
• Salt (½ tsp)
  Enhances flavor.
• Black pepper (½ tsp)
  Adds mild heat.
• Paprika (½ tsp)
  Adds color and subtle smokiness.
• Oil for frying
  Use vegetable or canola oil for neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Optional: Add garlic powder or cayenne to the breadcrumb mix for extra kick.

For the Garlic Butter:

• Unsalted butter (¼ cup)
  Rich and creamy—perfect for brushing or dipping.
• Garlic cloves (2–3, minced)
  Adds bold, aromatic flavor.
• Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped)
  Adds color and freshness.
• Salt (pinch)
  Balances and enhances the butter.

Optional: Add lemon zest or chili flakes for a twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings

Slice onions into thick rings (about ½ inch).

Separate into pairs of similar sizes—one slightly larger than the other.

Cut mozzarella sticks into pieces that fit snugly between the two rings.

Place the smaller ring inside the larger one and fill the gap with mozzarella.

Press gently to secure.

Freeze assembled rings for 30 minutes to hold their shape.

Tip: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three bowls:

• Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
• Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, and paprika

Dip each frozen stuffed ring:

1. Into flour (shake off excess)
2. Into egg
3. Into breadcrumbs

Repeat egg and breadcrumb coating for extra crunch.

Freeze again for 15–20 minutes to firm up before frying.

Tip: Double coating ensures a crispy, golden crust that holds the cheese inside.

Step 3: Fry the Rings

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or deep skillet.

Fry onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until:

• Golden brown
• Crispy
• Cheese is melted

Drain on paper towels.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in small batches for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan:

• Melt butter over low heat.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Stir in chopped parsley and a pinch of salt.

Keep warm until serving.

Optional: Strain garlic for a smoother butter or leave it chunky for texture.

Step 5: Serve

Brush hot onion rings with garlic butter or serve it on the side for dipping.

Garnish with:

• Extra parsley
• Parmesan cheese
• Chili flakes

Serve immediately for best texture and cheese pull.

Presentation Tip: Stack rings on a platter with dipping bowls and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Game day
• Movie nights
• Party platters
• Comfort food cravings

Pair with:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Spicy aioli
• Cold beer or sparkling lemonade

Yields:

• About 12–16 stuffed rings, depending on onion size

Tip: Serve with napkins—these are gloriously messy!

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Jalapeño Popper Rings

Add sliced jalapeños with the mozzarella.

Garlic Parmesan

Add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix.

Bacon-Wrapped

Wrap bacon around the stuffed rings before breading.

Veggie Version

Use vegan cheese and plant-based egg substitute.

Burger Rings

Serve on top of sliders for a decadent twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble and freeze rings up to 1 day in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or air-fry until crispy.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked rings for up to 1 month. Fry from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to cook time.

Tip: Avoid microwaving—reheating in the oven keeps them crispy.

Nutrition Notes (Per Ring, ~1 of 16)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~14g
• Fat: ~12g
• Sugar: ~1g
• Sodium: ~250mg
• Fiber: ~1g

These rings are:

• Crispy and cheesy
• Perfect for sharing
• Kid-friendly
• Easy to customize

Final Thoughts

These Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter are more than just a snack—they’re a celebration of bold flavor, melty cheese, and crispy perfection. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging solo, they’re guaranteed to impress.