Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings

My youngest son declared restaurant onion rings the superior food group, which sparked a Friday night experiment that changed everything. The first batch ended up slightly burned because I got distracted helping with homework, but that slightly charmed attempt taught me patience with the air fryer. Now the whole house gathers in the kitchen when the scent of frying onions hits the air, everyone claiming they helped somehow.

Last summer during a backyard movie night, I made three batches back to back while neighbors wandered over following the incredible smell. Something about sharing onion rings under string lights while watching animated movies with barefoot kids running around made this recipe feel like pure joy. Even the neighbor who claimed to dislike onions went back for fourths.

Ingredients

• 2 large yellow onions: Sweet varieties work best, and thick slices hold up better during the coating process
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the essential base layer that helps everything else stick properly
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth that complements the natural sweetness of caramelized onions
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle warmth and beautiful golden color to the finished rings
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the coating
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle bite that balances the richness
• 2 large eggs: The binding agent that keeps the breadcrumbs clinging to every curve
• 1 cup buttermilk: Makes the coating tangy and helps the flour adhere better than regular milk
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs: The secret ingredient for that shatteringly crispy texture we all crave
• Cooking spray: Necessary for helping the breadcrumbs achieve that fried texture without the oil
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the dipping sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and that familiar familiar flavor profile
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides the tangy kick that cuts through the richness
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the entire sauce and balances the heavy ingredients
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that makes this sauce unforgettable
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional but recommended for those who enjoy a little heat

Instructions

Slice and separate your onions:

Cut onions into half-inch thick rings and gently separate them, keeping the largest rings for the best presentation

Set up your coating station:

Arrange three shallow bowls in order with flour mixture first, egg mixture second, and panko breadcrumbs last

Prepare the flour mixture:

Combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended

Make the egg wash:

Whisk eggs and buttermilk together until completely smooth

Start the coating process:

Dredge each onion ring in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg mixture, and finally press into panko

Arrange for air frying:

Place breaded rings in a single layer in your air fryer basket without overcrowding

Add the finishing touch:

Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help achieve that golden crunch

Air fry to perfection:

Cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden and crispy

Mix the dipping sauce:

Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne until smooth

Serve immediately:

Bring everything to the table while the rings are still hot and the sauce is cold

Save

My sister texted me at midnight once demanding this recipe after her family devoured an entire batch during a Netflix marathon. That text made me realize these onion rings had somehow become the thing people requested most often.

Getting the Perfect Crunch

The key is pressing the panko firmly onto each ring so no bare spots remain. I learned this after a disappointing batch where the coating slid off in patches.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I add grated Parmesan to the flour mixture for extra savory depth. The family debates which version they prefer, which I consider a successful problem to have.

Serving Suggestions

These disappear fastest alongside burgers or as part of a spread with other appetizers. I always make extra because people inevitably hover near the air fryer.

• Try seasoning the panko with herbs like thyme or rosemary for variation
• A squeeze of fresh lime over the hot rings adds brightness
• Keep finished rings warm in a 200°F oven while cooking remaining batches

Save

Every time I make these, someone asks why we ever bothered with deep frying. That question alone makes this recipe worth keeping.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes air frying onion rings healthier?

Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, reducing fat content while still achieving a crispy exterior.

→ How can I make the onion rings extra crispy?

Double-coat the rings by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps before air frying for added crunch.

→ Can I substitute the dipping sauce ingredients?

Yes, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter dip, and ranch or barbecue sauces also pair well with the onion rings.

→ What temperature and time are best for air frying?

Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispness.

→ How should I prepare onions for the best texture?

Slice onions into ½-inch thick rings and separate carefully to maintain their shape during coating and cooking.