Crispy Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings – Golden, Cheesy, and Oven-Baked Perfection

If you love classic onion rings but can never resist melty mozzarella cheese, these Crispy Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings are about to become your new obsession. Crunchy on the outside, tender onion in the middle, and a gooey, cheesy surprise tucked inside—every bite delivers maximum comfort with a lighter, oven-baked twist.

Perfect as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or indulgent side dish, this recipe brings together bold flavor, satisfying texture, and simple ingredients. Best of all, they’re baked—not fried—so you get all the crunch without the grease.

Ingredients & Why They Matter

Large Onions – Thick rings provide structure and natural sweetness once baked.
Mozzarella Sticks – The star of the recipe, delivering that irresistible gooey cheese pull.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps the coating stick and creates the first crispy layer.
Eggs – Act as the binding agent between flour and breadcrumbs.
Bread Crumbs – Create a crunchy, golden exterior when baked.
Italian Seasoning – Adds herby depth and classic savory flavor.
Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor without overpowering the onion and cheese.
Salt & Pepper – Balance and elevate all the ingredients.
Cooking Spray – Helps achieve a crisp finish without deep frying.

How to Make Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings (Step-by-Step)

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Prepare the Onions & Cheese: Slice onions into thick rings and separate them. Cut mozzarella sticks into pieces sized to fit snugly inside the onion rings.
Stuff the Rings: Place a piece of mozzarella inside each onion ring, ensuring it fits tightly.
Set Up Coating Stations:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Bread crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Coat the Onion Rings: Dredge each stuffed ring in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
Bake: Arrange rings on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve Hot: Remove from oven and serve immediately while the cheese is perfectly melted.

Why This Recipe Is a Crowd Favorite

These baked mozzarella onion rings deliver the best of both worlds: the crunch and flavor of fried onion rings with the lighter feel of baking. The surprise mozzarella center makes them fun, indulgent, and completely irresistible. They’re easy to make, visually impressive, and always disappear fast.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use thick onion rings to prevent cheese from leaking.
Press breadcrumbs firmly for extra crunch.
Chill before baking for 10–15 minutes to help the cheese stay inside.
Serve immediately for the best texture and cheese pull.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Crispy Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings with:

Marinara sauce
Ranch dressing
Garlic aioli
Spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings are everything you want in a snack—crunchy, cheesy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and unbeatable flavor make this recipe a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this is one appetizer that truly delivers on every level.