Healthy Crispy Baked Onion Rings
Golden, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned, these crispy baked onion rings are a healthier take on the classic fried snack. Coated with smoky spices, dipped in a light batter, and baked to perfection, they’re low in fat but full of flavor. A quick and easy recipe that makes a crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or side dish any day of the week.
Equipment
- 2 large baking sheets
- 2 sheets of parchment paper
- 3 Medium mixing bowls
- 1 whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 cooking spray bottle
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt divided
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup low-fat buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large yellow sweet onions sliced ¼–½ inch thick
- Cooking spray as needed
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). While the oven warms up, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the onion rings crisp evenly without the need for excess oil. Set the trays aside until ready to use.
- Slice and Separate the Onions: Peel your sweet yellow onions and slice them into thick, even rings, about ¼ to ½ inch wide. Gently push out the centers so that you have individual rings. Use both large and small rings for variety, but keep them uniform in thickness for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove extra moisture, which will help the coating stick better.
- Mix the Seasoned Flour Base: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, regular paprika, half of the salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. This spice-infused flour forms the first coating and helps the batter cling to the onion slices. Stir until all the spices are evenly distributed, ensuring every bit of flour carries flavor.
- Prepare the Buttermilk Batter: In a second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth and frothy. To thicken the mixture, add about half of the seasoned flour mixture into the buttermilk and whisk again until it forms a slightly thick, creamy batter.This step gives the onion rings their golden, crunchy coating once baked.
- Season the Breadcrumb Coating: In a third shallow dish or wide bowl, add the breadcrumbs and mix them with the remaining salt. Stir to combine. These breadcrumbs are the final layer of crunch, and seasoning them ensures that every bite has flavor from start to finish.
- Coat the Onion Rings: First Layer: Working with a few onion rings at a time, lightly dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off any extra flour, then dip them into the buttermilk batter, letting the excess drip off. Finally, press the rings gently into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides thoroughly. Place the coated rings onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Optional Double Coating for Extra Crunch: If you prefer a thicker and crunchier coating, transfer the first-coated rings to the refrigerator for about 45–60 minutes. Once chilled, repeat the dipping process: flour → buttermilk → breadcrumbs. This double layer creates an ultra-crispy shell that mimics deep-fried texture without the oil.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets Properly: Spread the onion rings in a single layer across the baking sheets. For efficiency, you can place smaller rings inside larger ones, but make sure they are not touching so hot air can circulate. Proper spacing is key to achieving even crispiness all around.
- Spray for Golden Crispiness: Generously coat the tops of the onion rings with cooking spray. This step is crucial—it helps the coating brown beautifully and creates that fried-like crunch in the oven. Don’t skip spraying the rings, as it replaces the oil used in traditional frying.
- Bake and Flip for Even Cooking: Transfer the trays to the preheated oven and bake for 20–30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, carefully flip each ring with tongs or a spatula, then spray the other side with cooking spray. This ensures both sides develop the same golden color and crisp texture.
- Check for Doneness and Serve: When the onion rings are crisp, golden, and fragrant, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for just a couple of minutes on the tray so the coating sets. Serve them immediately while hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces such as spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing.
Notes
- Sweet yellow onions work best for a mild, balanced flavor.
- Slice rings evenly so they bake at the same rate.
- A double coating gives extra crunch without frying.
- Cooking spray is essential for a golden finish.
- Serve hot for the best crispy texture.
- Breadcrumbs can be swapped for panko for added crunch.
- These onion rings taste great with dips like ranch, ketchup, or chipotle mayo.
