Air Fryer Blooming Onion – Crispy, Golden & Delicious!
Air Fryer Blooming Onion 🧅
Servings
4
servingsPrep time
15
minutesCooking time
15
minutesCalories
280
kcalLove restaurant-style blooming onions but not the grease? This Air Fryer Blooming Onion gives you the same crunchy, flavorful bite without deep frying!
✅ Perfectly crispy and golden brown
✅ Air-fried for a lighter alternative
✅ Served with a creamy dipping sauce
✅ A show-stopping appetizer everyone will love!
Ingredients
1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or similar)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking spray or oil spray
- Dipping Sauce:
½ cup mayo
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Onion: Cut the onion into a blooming shape by slicing downwards, leaving the root intact. Gently separate the petals.
- Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk. In a third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Onion: Dredge the onion in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, then coat with panko. Repeat for a second layer for extra crispiness.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the onion with oil and place it in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, spraying with oil halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make the Sauce: While the onion cooks, mix all dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Serve: Remove the blooming onion from the air fryer, let it cool for a minute, and serve with the dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
- ✅ For extra crunch, double coat the onion by dipping it in the egg and panko mixture twice.
✅ If the onion isn't crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
✅ For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne or a pinch of chili powder to the flour mixture. - CLICK HERE to see which Air Fryers I recommend.