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.
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)
- 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Dipping Sauces
- Ranch, chipotle mayo, or salsa verde for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
- 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.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill the center of each onion ring with the prepared filling, ensuring the edges are smoothed.
- Arrange the stuffed onion rings on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes to help maintain their shape during frying.
Coating
- 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
- 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.
- 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.