Crispy Parmesan Onion Rings with Creamy Sriracha Dipping Sauce
Looking for the ultimate homemade onion rings? These Crispy Parmesan Onion Rings are everything you want—golden, crunchy, cheesy on the outside, with tender sweet onion inside. Double-dipped in seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan, then fried to perfection, they’re an irresistible snack, side, or appetizer. Served with a creamy sriracha mayo, they’ll disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Crispy Texture: Thanks to the double coating of panko and parmesan.
- Big Flavor: Paprika, cayenne, and cheese give these onion rings a delicious kick.
- Perfect Dipping Sauce: The creamy sriracha mayo balances heat and creaminess.
- Great for Parties: Crowd-pleasing finger food that’s easy to make ahead and reheat.
Ingredients
For the Onion Rings
- 2 large onions (white, yellow, or sweet varieties work best)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1½ cups plain breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the Creamy Sriracha Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅛ teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or to taste)
Instructions
1. Prep the Onions
- Slice onions into ¼-inch thick rings and gently separate them. Set aside the largest rings for frying and save the smaller ones for other recipes.
2. Set Up Breading Stations
- Bowl 1: Combine flour, paprika, cayenne, and baking powder.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together egg and milk.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan.
3. Bread the Onion Rings
- Dredge each onion ring in the seasoned flour.
- Dip into the egg mixture.
- Coat with the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture.
- For extra crunch: dip the ring again in egg, then a second time in breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a wire rack.
4. Heat the Oil
- Pour about 2–3 inches of oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven. Heat to 325°F (165°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
5. Fry the Onion Rings
- Carefully add a few onion rings at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning halfway, until deep golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and stay crispy.
6. Make the Sriracha Dipping Sauce
- Stir together mayonnaise, sugar, and sriracha in a small bowl until smooth.
7. Serve
- Serve warm onion rings sprinkled with fresh parsley, with the spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Use cold onions to reduce pungency and improve texture.
- Double dredging is key to extra crunch.
- Maintain oil temperature between 325–350°F for even frying.
- Don’t skip the rack—it keeps onion rings crispy instead of soggy.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until hot and crispy.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 856
- Carbohydrates: 106g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 26g
- Cholesterol: 74mg
- Sodium: 1474mg
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 15g