These Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings offer a perfect balance of crispy texture and gooey cheese. The almond flour coating adds a light crunch, and the mozzarella filling delivers a creamy bite that will keep you coming back for more. They’re a great snack or appetizer for any occasion.
This recipe is customizable to suit your preferences. If you want more heat, sprinkle in some chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also switch up the cheese to pepper jack or provolone for a different flavor. These onion rings pair perfectly with a side of marinara sauce or spicy ranch dressing for dipping.
Full Recipe:
- 2 large onions, sliced into 1/2 inch rings
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into smaller sticks to fit inside onion rings
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk (almond milk for low carb)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully separate the onion slices into individual rings and select pairs of rings with a gap between them that can hold a mozzarella stick.
- Insert mozzarella sticks inside the gap of each pair of onion rings, pressing together slightly to secure.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk.
- Dip each mozzarella-filled onion ring into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Then dip the ring into the almond flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the ring to ensure it sticks well.
- Place the prepared rings onto the lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the coating is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow rings to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Snack
Onion rings are a beloved snack, often served at parties, family gatherings, or as a crispy side dish. However, traditional onion rings are typically deep-fried, making them high in calories and unhealthy fats. The good news is that you can enjoy this classic treat without the guilt, thanks to the Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings. This recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative, with the perfect balance of crispy texture and gooey, melty cheese. By baking instead of frying and using almond flour as a coating, these onion rings are a low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly option.
A Modern Twist on a Midwestern Favorite
The concept of combining cheese and onion rings is not new. In fact, it’s a popular variation of onion rings, especially in the Midwestern United States. However, the usual fried version can leave you feeling sluggish and bloated due to the excess carbs and unhealthy oils. The Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings give this nostalgic treat a modern, healthier spin. Instead of using breadcrumbs and flour, almond flour is the key ingredient for a light yet crispy coating. The mozzarella cheese, placed inside the onion rings, provides that melty goodness that everyone loves. The best part is that these rings are baked to perfection, eliminating the need for excess oil while still achieving that irresistible crunch.
The Benefits of Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings
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Low in Carbs and High in Protein
One of the main reasons this recipe stands out is its low-carb content. Traditional onion rings are usually coated in breadcrumbs or flour, which are carb-heavy ingredients. By using almond flour instead, this recipe reduces the carbohydrate content significantly, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. The mozzarella cheese inside the onion rings also adds a healthy dose of protein, keeping you feeling full and satisfied after enjoying this snack. -
Gluten-Free and Suitable for Various Diets
For those following a gluten-free lifestyle, finding satisfying snacks can sometimes be challenging. Fortunately, these baked mozzarella onion rings are completely gluten-free thanks to the use of almond flour. Whether you’re celiac or simply prefer to avoid gluten, this recipe is an excellent addition to your meal rotation. Additionally, it’s dairy-friendly if you choose a non-dairy milk option like almond milk, and it’s versatile enough to accommodate many other dietary preferences. -
A Healthier Alternative to Fried Onion Rings
Fried foods can be unhealthy due to the excess oil used during cooking. Deep-frying also creates harmful compounds and increases the calorie count of the dish. In contrast, baking these mozzarella-stuffed onion rings gives them a crisp and golden texture without the need for a deep fryer. Not only does this lower the calorie content, but it also prevents the formation of unhealthy fats, making this version a better choice for anyone looking to reduce their consumption of fried foods. -
Perfect for Keto and Low Carb Diets
This recipe is a fantastic choice for those on a keto diet, as it’s packed with healthy fats from the almond flour and mozzarella cheese while keeping the carb count low. Keto diets typically limit carbohydrate intake to a minimal amount, and traditional onion rings would not fit into this framework due to the high amount of carbs. However, by replacing the usual flour-based coating with almond flour, you can enjoy a low-carb version that fits perfectly into your keto or low-carb meal plan.
Customizing Your Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings
One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. While it’s already a flavorful and satisfying snack, you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to customize your onion rings:
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Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the almond flour mixture. This will give the onion rings a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella cheese. -
Different Cheese Varieties
Mozzarella is the traditional cheese choice for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Pepper jack cheese can be used for a spicy and tangy flavor, or provolone for a smooth, smoky taste. You can even try a combination of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. -
Panko Crumbs for Extra Crunch
If you prefer an extra-crispy texture, you can combine almond flour with a small amount of gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This will give the onion rings a delightful crunch without compromising the low-carb nature of the recipe. -
Add Herbs and Spices
For an extra layer of flavor, you can season the almond flour with herbs and spices like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder. These additions will enhance the taste and give your onion rings a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. They make a great appetizer or snack, perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or casual get-togethers. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces to complement their flavors, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
If you’re looking to turn these onion rings into a full meal, they pair wonderfully with a side of fresh garden salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the mozzarella-filled onion rings. For a heartier meal, you could serve them alongside a bowl of tomato basil soup, which adds a comforting, warming element to the dish.
Why You Should Try Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings
If you’re someone who loves the crunchy, cheesy goodness of onion rings but wants to make healthier choices, this recipe is a must-try. It combines the best of both worlds—crispy texture and gooey cheese—without the excess carbs and unhealthy fats. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet, this dish can easily be incorporated into your meal plan. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a fun recipe to try with friends and family.
Conclusion: A Guilt-Free Snack That Doesn’t Compromise on Flavor
Low Carb Baked Mozzarella Onion Rings are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried onion rings. By baking them instead of frying and using almond flour as the coating, these onion rings are lower in carbs, higher in protein, and completely gluten-free. The mozzarella cheese inside each ring adds a rich and melty bite that will satisfy your craving for something savory and cheesy. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking to enjoy a healthier version of a classic snack, these baked mozzarella onion rings are sure to become a family favorite. Give them a try today, and enjoy a guilt-free snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor!