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Air Fryer Crispy Mini Blooming Onions

Crispy, seasoned mini onion 'petals' air-fried to golden perfection, a healthier and easier alternative to deep-fried blooming onions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Onions & Coating
  • 2 medium yellow onions or 3 small, peeled and cut into ½-inch rounds
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce like Frank's RedHot
  • 2-3 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
Dipping Sauce (Optional)
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Peel onions, cut into ½-inch thick rounds, and separate into individual rings/petals.
  2. In Bowl 1, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using).
  3. In Bowl 2, whisk together egg, milk, and hot sauce.
  4. Working in batches, toss onion rings first in dry mix, then wet mix, then dry mix again, pressing to coat well. Place coated rings on a plate.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly spray basket with olive oil.
  6. Arrange coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket (do not overcrowd). Lightly spray tops with olive oil.
  7. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. For dipping sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl.
  9. Serve crispy mini blooming onions hot with dipping sauce.

Notes

For best results, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches. A light spray of oil is crucial for crisping. Dipping sauce is highly recommended!