Air Fryer Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
These crispy fried onions are a lighter, healthier alternative to deep-fried onions. They’re perfect as a topping for salads, casseroles, burgers, or green bean casserole!
Ingredients
- 2 large onions (yellow or sweet onions work best)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
- Cooking spray or oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
- Peel and thinly slice the onions into rings or strips, depending on your preference. Separate the layers into individual rings or pieces.
Step 2: Make the Coating
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Onions
- Dip each onion ring or piece into the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge the onions in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Onions
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated onions in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
- Spray the onions lightly with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the onions from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack for maximum crispiness.
- Serve immediately as a snack, side, or topping.
Tips
- For extra crunch, double-dip the onions: repeat the buttermilk and breadcrumb coating process.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Enjoy your crispy, air-fried onions—deliciously crunchy and guilt-free! 🧅✨