Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these onion rings are lower in calories and fat, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Utilizing almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, this recipe caters to low-carb and ketogenic diets.
- Cheesy Delight: The addition of mozzarella sticks inside the onion rings provides a delightful, melty center that complements the crispy exterior.
- Versatile Serving Options: These onion rings pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into smaller sticks to fit inside onion rings
- 2 cups chickpea flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk (almond milk for low-carb)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prepare the Onion Rings: Carefully separate the onion slices into individual rings. Select pairs of rings with a gap between them that can hold a mozzarella stick.
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Assemble the Rings: Insert mozzarella sticks inside the gap of each pair of onion rings, pressing together slightly to secure.
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Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the chickpea flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk.
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Coat the Onion Rings: Dip each mozzarella-filled onion ring into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then dip the ring into the chickpea flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the ring to ensure it sticks well.
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Bake: Place the prepared rings onto the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the coating is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Allow the rings to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder to the chickpea flour mixture for a spicier flavor.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or provolone for varied flavors.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of chickpea flour?
Yes, but using regular flour will increase the carbohydrate content, making it less suitable for low-carb diets.
Can I make these onion rings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the onion rings, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze these onion rings?
Yes, freeze the assembled, unbaked onion rings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
What dipping sauces pair well with these onion rings?
Marinara, ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or creamy blue cheese dip are excellent choices.
Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese?
It’s best to use whole mozzarella sticks to ensure the cheese doesn’t leak out during baking.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure the mozzarella sticks fit snugly inside the onion rings and press the rings together firmly to seal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, cheeses like pepper jack or provolone can be used for different flavors.
Are these onion rings suitable for a ketogenic diet?
Yes, using chickpea flour and low-carb cheese makes these onion rings suitable for a ketogenic diet.
How can I make these onion rings spicier?
Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chickpea flour mixture for added heat.
Can I bake these onion rings without parchment paper?
Yes, but using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Conclusion
These Low-Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried onion rings, combining the savory flavors of onion and mozzarella in a crispy, baked form. Perfect for those following a low-carb diet or anyone looking for a lighter, yet flavorful snack, these onion rings will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Low-Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Low-Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings offer a healthier take on a classic favorite. With almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and mozzarella sticks inside, they’re perfect for low-carb and ketogenic diets. Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, these guilt-free onion rings make a delicious snack or side dish. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a satisfying, cheesy treat without the carbs.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into smaller sticks to fit inside onion rings
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk (almond milk for low-carb)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Onion Rings: Separate the onion slices into individual rings. Select pairs of rings with a gap that will fit a mozzarella stick.
- Assemble the Rings: Insert mozzarella sticks inside the gap of each onion ring and press together slightly to secure.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Coat the Onion Rings: Dip each mozzarella-filled onion ring into the egg mixture, then coat with the almond flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the ring to ensure it sticks.
- Bake: Place the prepared rings on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the coating is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let the rings cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
- Add chili powder to the almond flour for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or provolone for unique flavors.
