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Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings served on a plate with dipping sauce

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings

These crunchy Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings are filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and offer a delightful spicy kick, making them perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Onions
  • 2 large large yellow or sweet onions
Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
  • 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeded for mild heat)
  • ¼ cup bacon bits (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped scallions (optional)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Coatings
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • cups seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
Frying
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Dipping Sauces
  • Ranch, chipotle mayo, or salsa verde for serving (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice onions into ½-inch thick rings. Carefully separate into sturdy layers suitable for stuffing and discard very thin layers. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, and optional add-ins (bacon, scallions, garlic powder) and mix until smooth. Chill for 10 minutes to firm up.
  3. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill the center of each onion ring with the prepared filling, ensuring the edges are smoothed.
  4. Arrange the stuffed onion rings on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes to help maintain their shape during frying.
Coating
  1. Dredge each stuffed onion ring in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat in breadcrumbs. For an extra crunchy texture, repeat the coating steps.
Frying
  1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large skillet. Fry the rings in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
  2. Transfer to paper towels to drain any excess oil and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Use sweet yellow onions for a milder taste or standard yellow onions for a sharper flavor. Chill the filling to make it easier to stuff into the onion rings. Adjust the number of jalapeños to suit your heat preference.