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Air Fryer Blooming Onions

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Air fryer blooming onions are crispy on the outside, tender and slightly sweet on the inside, delivering classic restaurant-style flavor without deep frying. Made lighter with minimal oil, they’re a fun and impressive appetizer perfect for sharing.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 2 blooming onions (serves 4)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet onions
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray
  • For the dipping sauce (optional):
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Peel the onions and slice off a thin piece from the top, keeping the root intact.
  2. Place each onion root-side down and carefully cut into sections from the top down, stopping about 1/2 inch from the root.
  3. Gently separate the layers to create the blooming shape.
  4. In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  5. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
  6. Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  7. Coat each onion thoroughly in the seasoned flour, making sure to get between the layers.
  8. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat well with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  9. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
  10. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Air fry for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  12. If making the sauce, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, paprika, garlic powder, and salt until smooth. Serve alongside the onion.

Notes

  • Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat.
  • Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • Substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dipping sauce.
  • Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for extra savory flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes if not using an air fryer.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/air-fryer-blooming-onions/