Description
Crispy Mini Blooming Onions in Air Fryer offer all the deliciousness of traditional blooming onions, but with less oil and less mess. These bite-sized versions are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a flavorful seasoning that makes each bite irresistible. They’re the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion, and they’re made effortlessly in the air fryer for a healthier twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 small onions (such as sweet or yellow onions)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray (for air fryer)
For the dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the onions:
Peel the onions and cut off the top (stem) end. Slice each onion in half, and then make 3-4 deep cuts around the onion, leaving the base intact so the layers stay connected. You should end up with “petals” that will open up when cooked. - Make the batter:
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. - Coat the onions:
Dip each onion half into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all the petals evenly. Then dip it into the egg and milk mixture, and finally, coat it with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. - Air fry the onions:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the prepared onion halves in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Spray the top of the onions lightly with more cooking spray. - Cook the onions:
Air fry the onions at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Check for crispiness and continue cooking in 2-minute increments if needed. - Make the dipping sauce:
While the onions are cooking, combine all the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more hot sauce or paprika if desired. - Serve:
Once the mini blooming onions are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
- If you want extra crispy onions, you can lightly spray the onions with oil again halfway through cooking.
- You can use any dipping sauce you like, such as ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy aioli.
- If you prefer larger portions, you can use medium-sized onions instead of mini ones, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American