Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings

The air fryer changed everything for me when I finally stopped fighting it and let it do what it does best. These onion rings emerged one Friday night when nothing sounded better than something crispy and indulgent, minus the guilt of a deep fryer.

My brother in law stayed over unexpectedly that weekend and proceeded to eat nearly half the batch straight from the air fryer basket, standing at the counter like he hadnt eaten in days. That became the measuring stick for every air fryer recipe since.

Ingredients

• 2 large yellow onions: Yellow onions sweeten as they cook while maintaining enough structure to hold up through the coating process
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the base layer that helps the egg wash stick to the onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth without the texture of fresh garlic
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives the rings a subtle warmth and beautiful golden color
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the onions
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick that keeps things interesting
• 2 large eggs: Acts as the glue between the flour coating and the crispy panko exterior
• 1 cup buttermilk: The acidity tenderizes while creating a rich dipping consistency
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs create an exceptionally light and crispy coating
• Cooking spray: Essential for helping the browning process and achieving that fried texture
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dipping sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang to the dip
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a sharp contrast to the creamy elements
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the richness
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a smoky undertone to the sauce
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional heat for those who like a little extra kick

Instructions

Prep the onions:

Slice the onions into ½ inch thick rings and separate them into individual rings, discarding the very small center pieces or saving them for something else

Set up your breading station:

Arrange three shallow bowls in a row, combining flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the first, whisking eggs and buttermilk in the second, and pouring panko into the third

Coat each ring:

Dredge each onion ring first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press into the panko until thoroughly coated

Arrange and spray:

Place the breaded rings in a single layer in your air fryer basket, giving them a light coating of cooking spray to help with browning

Air fry to perfection:

Cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the rings are golden and crisp, working in batches if your air fryer is on the smaller side

Mix the dipping sauce:

Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne if using, and salt and pepper until completely smooth

Serve immediately:

Bring the hot rings to the table with the sauce alongside, preferably while people are already gathered around and ready to dig in

Pin It

These became my go to when friends come over for casual porch hangs or movie nights because nobody can resist reaching for just one more. Something about pulling apart a crispy onion ring feels festive even when there is nothing special to celebrate.

Getting Extra Crunch

Double coating the rings means going through the egg wash and panko a second time for an ultra crunchy exterior that holds up even longer. It takes more time but the difference in texture is substantial, especially if you are planning to serve these at a party where they might sit out for a bit.

Making Ahead

You can bread the rings up to a few hours in advance and store them on a parchment lined baking sheet in the refrigerator. The dip actually benefits from sitting for at least thirty minutes so the flavors can meld together properly.

Serving Suggestions

These onion rings pair beautifully with a chilled lager or sparkling lemonade as noted, but they also work as a side for burgers or sandwiches. The contrast between hot crispy rings and cool creamy sauce is something special.

• Try serving with ranch or barbecue sauce if you want to switch things up
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the plated rings adds color
• Keep any leftovers in the oven at a low temperature rather than reheating in the microwave

Pin It

There is something genuinely satisfying about pulling a batch of golden rings from the air fryer and watching everyone gravitate toward the kitchen. These have become the thing people actually remember and ask about.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the onion rings get crispy in the air fryer?

Coat the rings thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs and spray them lightly with cooking spray before air frying. Flip halfway for even crispness.

→ Can I make a gluten-free version of this dish?

Yes, substituting all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives allows you to make a gluten-free version.

→ What can I use as an alternative to mayonnaise in the dip?

Greek yogurt works well as a lighter substitute, providing creaminess with tang.

→ Is it necessary to double-coat the onion rings?

Double-coating by repeating egg and breadcrumb steps gives extra crunch but is optional based on preference.

→ What temperature and time should I air fry the rings?

Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping the rings halfway through cooking for even browning.