Go Back
A pile of crispy, golden-brown onion rings, freshly fried.

Spicy Cheesy Onion Rings

These Spicy Cheesy Onion Rings are a delightful appetizer or side dish, featuring sweet onions coated in a spicy, crispy batter and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a flavorful crunch.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet onions Vidalia or Walla Walla, sliced 1/2-inch thick and separated into rings
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free all-purpose blend
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for seasoning after frying
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cold milk or buttermilk for tang
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup cold sparkling water
  • 4 cups neutral oil for frying vegetable, canola, or peanut
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Equipment

  • Large bowls
  • Whisk
  • Deep pot or Dutch oven
  • Kitchen thermometer
  • Slotted spoon or spider
  • Wire rack
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Peel and slice two large sweet onions into 1/2-inch thick rings, then carefully separate them.
  2. For optimal crispiness, you can soak the onion rings in ice water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat them very dry.
Batter Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold milk, egg, and cold sparkling water.
Frying
  1. Pour 2-3 inches of oil into a deep pot and heat to 375°F (190°C), using a thermometer for accuracy.
  2. Dip onion rings, in small batches, into the wet mixture, then fully coat them in the dry flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  3. Carefully place battered rings into the hot oil and fry for 2-4 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy.
Finishing Touches
  1. Remove fried rings with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack over paper towels to drain.
  2. Season immediately with extra salt and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese while still hot.
  3. Serve your Spicy Cheesy Onion Rings hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For an extra kick, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper. Ensure the oil temperature is maintained for consistent frying results and crispy onion rings. Do not overcrowd the pot when frying.