These Cheesy Onion Crisps are the perfect snack—crunchy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re super easy to whip up.
They’re great as a tasty treat or served alongside your favorite dips. I love making them when friends come over; they always disappear in seconds! Who could resist their cheesy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onion: A medium onion works best for this recipe, but you can also use sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder taste. If you’re looking for a sharper bite, go for a red onion.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan can add a different flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard, but you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a gluten-free take, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Cornmeal: It’s optional, but cornmeal adds a delightful crunch. If you don’t have any, you can skip it or replace it with crushed crackers for similar texture.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Onion Crisps?
The key to getting your Cheesy Onion Crisps nice and crispy is all in the coating and frying method. Make sure the onion slices are well-coated with the flour mixture after dipping in the egg. This helps create a solid crunch!
- Heat your oil to the right temperature; too low, and they will absorb oil, too high, and they’ll burn quickly.
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring even cooking.
- After frying, drain them on paper towels to keep them crispy. Enjoy your crunchy snacks!
How to Make Cheesy Onion Crisps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crisps:
- 1 medium onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil) for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes of cooking, resulting in a total of around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onion:
Start by peeling your medium onion. Then, thinly slice it into rings or strips, whichever you prefer. Thinner slices will become crispier, so keep that in mind when slicing!
2. Make the Coating:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal (if you’re using it), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix it well so all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a separate small bowl, beat the egg until it’s smooth. This will help the coating stick to the onion slices.
4. Coat the Onion Slices:
Dip each onion slice into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. You want a nice coating for that crispy texture!
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the coated onion slices. Press down lightly so the cheese adheres to the onion crust.
6. Fry the Crisps:
Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cheesy onion slices into the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once they are perfectly crispy, remove the onion crisps from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crunchy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These delicious cheesy onion crisps are best enjoyed warm. Serve them as a snack or appetizer, and watch them disappear in no time. Enjoy your tasty creation!
FAQ for Cheesy Onion Crisps
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Cornmeal?
No problem! Cornmeal is optional and primarily adds extra crunch. If you don’t have it on hand, you can simply use more flour or substitute with crushed crackers for a similar texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cheesy Onion Crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp them, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated onion slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
