Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Onion: The main ingredient, sliced into rings to create the perfect shape for frying.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the onion rings first, helping the buttermilk stick better.

Buttermilk: Adds flavor and moisture, making the coating stick to the onion rings.

Panko breadcrumbs: Gives the onion rings a light, crispy texture when cooked.

Paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and a bit of color to the coating.

Garlic powder: Brings a subtle garlic taste to the breadcrumb mixture.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the recipe.

Black pepper: Adds a little bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Cooking spray: Helps the onion rings crisp up in the air fryer without using too much oil.

One of the most helpful tricks for making these crispy onion rings is how you dip and coat each ring before cooking. Here’s a simple way to get it just right:

1. Start by dipping the onion ring into the flour. Make sure it’s lightly covered all over. This helps the next layer stick better.
2. Next, dip the floured ring into the buttermilk. The wet buttermilk acts like glue for the crunchy coating.
3. Finally, press the ring into the panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every part is coated well.

Doing it in this order—flour, buttermilk, then breadcrumbs—makes the coating stick tight and stay crispy after cooking. If you skip the flour or buttermilk, the crumbs might fall off or not get that perfect crunch.

Here’s why this works so well: the flour dries the surface of the onion a bit, so the buttermilk can stick better. Then the wet buttermilk helps the breadcrumbs cling on like a cozy jacket. When you air fry them, this triple layer crisps up beautifully without needing a lot of oil.

I remember the first time I tried skipping the flour step because I thought it was extra work. The crumbs just slid right off, and the rings weren’t as crunchy. Now I always follow this order—it’s a little extra step that makes a big difference. Also, don’t forget to spray the rings lightly with cooking spray before air frying; it helps them turn golden and crispy without frying in oil.

This simple dipping routine turns regular onion rings into a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s fun to make and even better to eat!

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor, which can provide a different but pleasant taste to the onion rings.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, making the onion rings slightly healthier.

• buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can mimic the tanginess and thickness of buttermilk, providing a similar texture and flavor.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free alternative if needed.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a bit more heat and complexity, enhancing the flavor profile of the onion rings.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor, though it will be more onion-forward.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor along with the saltiness, giving the onion rings a unique twist.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat and can add a subtle earthiness to the onion rings.

• cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil in a spray bottle: Olive oil provides a healthier fat option and can add a richer flavor to the onion rings.

• To keep your onion rings fresh and crispy, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.

• If you plan to enjoy them within a couple of days, store the container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the onion rings. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the onion rings to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to reheat, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen onion rings in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Avoid microwaving the onion rings as it can make them soggy. The air fryer is your best bet for retaining that delightful crunch.

• If you notice any loss of crispiness, a quick stint in the air fryer can revive them. Just a few minutes at 400°F (200°C) should do the trick.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover onion rings in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they regain their crispy texture.

• Use an oven by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Spread the onion rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping once, until they are hot and crispy.

• For a quick fix, use a toaster oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and place the onion rings on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are warmed through and crispy.

• If you’re in a pinch, use a microwave with a crisper tray. Place the onion rings on the tray and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Note that this method might not retain the crispiness as well as others.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and place the onion rings in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the onion rings, ensuring they become crispy without deep frying.

• Knife: Used to slice the onion into rings.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the onion.

• Three bowls: One for flour, one for buttermilk, and one for the panko breadcrumb mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, buttermilk, and panko breadcrumbs accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the onion rings before air frying to help them crisp up.

• Tongs: Useful for flipping the onion rings halfway through cooking.

• Plate or tray: To hold the coated onion rings before placing them in the air fryer.

Pre-slice onions: Slice the onion rings in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Assembly line setup: Arrange your flour, buttermilk, and panko breadcrumb mixture in a row for quick dipping.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple onion rings at once by using a larger air fryer or cooking in quick batches.

Preheat air fryer: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to save cooking time and ensure even crispiness.

Use parchment paper: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup and faster transitions between batches.