Name: Air Fryer Onion Rings (Homemade)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 large sweet onion (peeled and sliced into rings); 3 cups buttermilk (for soaking); 1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs (for coating); ½ cup yellow cornmeal (for added crunch); ½ cup all-purpose flour (for coating base); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (for flavor); ¼ cup egg whites (to help breadcrumbs stick); to taste oil spray (for air frying)

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If you’ve ever craved crispy, golden onion rings but wanted to skip the deep frying, then this recipe for Air Fryer Onion Rings (Homemade) is just what you need! These onion rings are not only deliciously crunchy, but they’re also healthier thanks to the air fryer. You’ll love how simple ingredients can transform into a mouthwatering appetizer or snack that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into the details of making these irresistible onion rings that are sure to impress your family and friends!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets these Air Fryer Onion Rings (Homemade) apart from store-bought versions is the freshness and flavor that comes from making them from scratch. The unique combination of buttermilk and Cajun seasoning infuses the onion rings with a delightful tang and a hint of spice, while the air fryer ensures they are crispy without the excess oil. Plus, this recipe is customizable to your taste and dietary needs, making them a versatile snack for any occasion.

What to Buy

1 large sweet onion: Sweet onions add a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crispy coating.
3 cups buttermilk: This ingredient is key for soaking the onion rings, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.
1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs: These will create a light, crunchy texture.
½ cup yellow cornmeal: Cornmeal adds an extra crunch and unique flavor.
½ cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the coating for the onion rings.
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: For a zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile.
¼ cup egg whites: These help the breadcrumbs stick to the onion rings.
Oil spray: A light coating of oil helps achieve that golden-brown finish.

Must-Have Equipment

Air Fryer: The star of the show, allowing for crispy onion rings without deep frying.
Cutting board and knife: For slicing your onions into perfect rings.
Mixing bowls: To prepare your buttermilk soak and coating mixtures.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cooking spray: To lightly coat the air fryer basket and prevent sticking.

Cook Air Fryer Onion Rings (Homemade) Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Onion

Start by peeling the large sweet onion. Cut it into thick slices, about ½ inch wide, and then separate the slices into rings. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Soak in Buttermilk

In a mixing bowl, pour the 3 cups of buttermilk over the onion rings, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the onions and enhances their flavor.

Step 3: Make the Coating

In another mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of cornmeal, ½ cup of flour, and 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, whisk the ¼ cup of egg whites until slightly frothy. This will help the coating adhere to the onion rings.

Step 5: Dredge the Onion Rings

Remove the soaked onion rings from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dip each ring first into the egg whites, ensuring it’s coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Repeat this for all onion rings.

Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the onion rings begin to cook immediately, resulting in a crispier finish.

Step 7: Air Fry the Onion Rings

Spray the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the onion rings in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Lightly spray the tops with oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, carefully remove the onion rings from the air fryer. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces—think ranch, ketchup, or spicy aioli. Enjoy your homemade crispy goodness!

Substitutions by Diet

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Lower Carb: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and omit breadcrumbs.
Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference or use a mild seasoning blend for a less spicy option.

Insider Tips

For the crispiest onion rings, make sure they are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
Letting the onion rings rest for a few minutes after frying will enhance their crunchiness.
Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavor combination—garlic powder and smoked paprika can be great additions!
For added flavor, marinate the onion rings in buttermilk overnight for an even richer taste.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

These Air Fryer Onion Rings (Homemade) are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as they may become soggy.

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Creating your own Air Fryer Onion Rings (Homemade) is a fun and rewarding experience that brings a beloved classic to your kitchen. With a little preparation and the right ingredients, you can whip up a batch of crispy, flavorful onion rings that are perfect for snacking, sharing, or enjoying with a meal. So get ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your snacking game with this simple and delicious recipe!