Crispy Baked Onion Rings (Print Version)

Golden, crunchy baked onion rings with Parmesan and smoky spices deliver irresistible flavor and crisp texture.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large yellow onions

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup buttermilk
05 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
06 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
09 - ½ teaspoon onion powder
10 - ½ teaspoon salt
11 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ For baking

12 - Cooking spray or olive oil spray

# How to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
02 - Peel onions and slice into ½-inch thick rings. Separate into individual rings, discarding the very small inner ones.
03 - Set up three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika whisked together. Bowl 2 with beaten eggs and buttermilk combined. Bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan.
04 - Dip each onion ring into flour mixture, shaking off excess. Submerge into egg-buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off. Dredge in panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
05 - Place coated rings on baking sheets in a single layer and lightly spray tops with cooking spray.
06 - Bake for 10 minutes until edges start browning.
07 - Flip each ring and bake an additional 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
08 - Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • All the crunch without heating up your kitchen or dealing with hot oil splatters.
  • Ready in under 40 minutes from pantry to plate, perfect for unexpected guests.
  • The Parmesan adds a savory depth that makes people ask for the recipe.
02 -
  • Don't skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking and ensures even browning on the bottom.
  • The light spray of cooking spray is non-negotiable—it's what replaces the oil in traditional frying and creates that golden, crispy exterior.
03 -
  • If you want extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a gentle heat.
  • Don't flip the rings too early; wait until the bottom is visibly golden before turning them over for best results.