Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings (Printable Version)

Golden crunchy onion rings air-fried to perfection with a creamy tangy dip on the side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Onion Rings

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→ Dipping Sauce

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# Method:

01 - Cut the onions into 1/2-inch thick rings. Separate into individual rings and set aside.
02 - In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
03 - In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk until fully combined.
04 - Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Arrange all three bowls in assembly line order: flour mixture, egg wash, then breadcrumbs.
05 - Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
06 - Place breaded rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
07 - Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time, until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
08 - Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until serving.
09 - Transfer hot onion rings to a serving platter. Serve immediately with the chilled dipping sauce on the side.

# Chef's Tips:

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  • You get that satisfying crunch without the oil heavy cleanup or lingering fried food smell in your kitchen
  • The creamy dip comes together in seconds and somehow makes everything taste better
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  • Crowding the air fryer basket will steam the rings instead of crisping them, so work in batches if needed
  • The breading needs that spray of oil to actually crisp up, otherwise you will end up with soft and soggy rings
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  • Soaking the sliced rings in ice water for 15 minutes before breading reduces the harsh onion bite
  • Let the breaded rings rest for 10 minutes before air frying to help the coating adhere better

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