Crispy Cheesy Air-Fryer Onion Rings

These cheesy onion rings are an easy alternative to traditional breaded onion rings. They’re golden and crisp around the edges, with melted cheese coating every bite—perfect as a snack or side dish.

🛒 Ingredients

Makes: 2–3 servings

• 1 large yellow or white onion
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan for extra cheesy flavor and protein

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the onion:
   Peel the onion and slice it into thick rounds, about ½-inch thick. Carefully separate the slices into individual rings.
2. Season:
   Place the onion rings in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss until evenly coated.
3. Add the cheese:
   Add the shredded mozzarella or cheddar and toss gently so the cheese sticks to the lightly oiled onion rings.
4. Preheat the air fryer:
   Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
5. Air fry:
   Arrange the onion rings in a single layer, leaving a little space between them. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, checking around the 7-minute mark.
6. Finish:
   Cook until the onions are tender and the cheese is melted, golden, and crisp around the edges.
7. Cool briefly:
   Let them rest for 1–2 minutes before removing them. The cheese will firm up slightly as they cool.

💡 Tips

• Use low-moisture mozzarella for better browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if necessary.
• For extra protein, add Parmesan or serve with a high-protein Greek-yogurt dip.
• For fewer carbs, use less onion and more cheese; onions naturally contain carbohydrates.

🥣 Easy Protein Dip

Mix:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Serve alongside the crispy onion rings.

Note: These are low-carb compared with traditional breaded onion rings, but they aren’t zero-carb because onions contain natural carbohydrates. For someone following a bariatric diet, portion size and individual tolerance matter, so follow the eating guidance provided by their bariatric care team.