Description
Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside—these Stuffed Pizza Onion Rings are everything you love about pizza and onion rings rolled into one! Loaded with mozzarella and pepperoni, then coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they’re a fun, shareable snack that’s perfect for game day, parties, or just a crave-worthy night in.
Ingredients
For the Onion Rings:
2 large onions, peeled and sliced into thick ½-inch rings
8 oz (225 g) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks or thick slices
½ cup mini pepperoni slices (or chopped regular pepperoni)
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Oil, for frying
For Dipping:
Warm marinara or pizza sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Onion Rings:
Slice onions into ½-inch thick rings. Pair rings of similar sizes to create a hollow “pocket” between them. Fill the space with mozzarella sticks and a few pepperoni slices. Press gently to secure and place on a baking sheet. Freeze for 20–30 minutes to firm up.Set Up Breading Station:
In one bowl, add flour. In another, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine panko, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.Bread the Rings:
Take each frozen stuffed ring and dredge it in flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.Fry to Perfection:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onion rings in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Serve:
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Optional: sprinkle with fresh parsley or parmesan for an extra punch of flavor.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: You can freeze the stuffed, breaded rings before frying and store them for up to 2 weeks. Fry straight from frozen—just add about 30 seconds more cook time.
Baking Option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with oil before baking for a crispier finish.
Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp.
Cheese Choices: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to try provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist.
Vegetarian? Just leave out the pepperoni or swap in chopped mushrooms or black olives for a meatless version.
Serving Suggestion: Great on their own or with a fresh salad, garlic knots, or cold soda. Total party food!