A crispy, flavorful, and healthier version of the classic blooming onion, made effortlessly in the air fryer for a golden, crunchy outer layer and a tender onion center. This air fryer blooming onion is perfect as an appetizer or a fun snack, offering the same satisfying taste as the deep-fried version but with less oil and less mess.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 large onion
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon milk
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Cooking spray
Directions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the onion in half and peel off the outer skin. Carefully make vertical cuts from the top down, creating a blooming effect while leaving the root intact.
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Then In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and a pinch of paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
Dip the onion first into the flour mixture, coating all surfaces and between the layers. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the onion inside, with the petals facing up. Lightly spray the top of the onion with cooking spray to help it crisp up.
Air fry the onion at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
If I’m in the mood for a different flavor, I sometimes like to experiment with adding different seasonings to the flour and breadcrumb mixtures. For a spicy kick, I’ll increase the cayenne pepper or add some chili powder. If I’m in the mood for a cheesy touch, I’ll mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs. You can also try using whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko for an extra crunch. The dipping sauce can be customized too—classic ranch, spicy ketchup, or even a tangy honey mustard are great choices!
Storage/Reheating
I recommend enjoying this air fryer blooming onion fresh for the best texture. However, if I need to store leftovers, I place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I simply pop the onion back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F to restore that crispy texture. You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
How do I make sure the onion blooms properly?
To ensure your onion blooms, make sure to make deep vertical cuts while keeping the root intact. The root is what holds the petals together and allows them to open up during cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version of the air fryer blooming onion, just use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. It’ll be just as crispy and delicious!
What dipping sauces go well with blooming onion?
I personally enjoy dipping it in ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. You can also try creamy sriracha or honey mustard for something a little different.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this recipe is best when fresh, you can prep the onion by breading it ahead of time and storing it in the fridge for a few hours before air frying. This will save you some time when you’re ready to cook it.
How do I prevent the onion from getting soggy in the air fryer?
Make sure to coat the onion evenly with breadcrumbs and spray it lightly with cooking spray. This will help it crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Avoid overcooking, as that can lead to a dry texture. If you notice any sogginess, you can re-crisp it by air frying for a few extra minutes.
Conclusion
Making a blooming onion in the air fryer is a game-changer! I love how it turns out crispy and flavorful while being a lighter alternative to the classic deep-fried version. It’s a fun and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack, appetizer, or party food. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a perfect blooming onion ready to serve in no time!
Recipe:
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Air Fryer Blooming Onion
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crispy, flavorful, and healthier version of the classic blooming onion, made effortlessly in the air fryer for a golden, crunchy outer layer and a tender onion center.
Ingredients
1 large onion
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon milk
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the onion in half and peel off the outer skin. Carefully make vertical cuts from the top down, creating a blooming effect while leaving the root intact.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and a pinch of paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
- Dip the onion first into the flour mixture, coating all surfaces and between the layers. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the onion inside, with the petals facing up. Lightly spray the top of the onion with cooking spray to help it crisp up.
- Air fry the onion at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
If you want a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chili powder to the flour and breadcrumb mixtures.
For a cheesy touch, mix in grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs.
Whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
Dipping sauce options: ranch, spicy ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or creamy sriracha.
For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
