Ingredients
1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or yellow)
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray
**For dipping sauce (optional):**
1/4 cup mayo
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp horseradish
1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
1. Cut off 1/2 inch from the top of the onion and peel. Place onion cut-side down. Starting 1/2 inch from the root, make 4 cuts down to create quarters, then 3 more cuts between each to make 16 segments.
2. Gently separate layers to “bloom” the onion.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk. In another, mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
4. Dredge onion in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, making sure to get between petals.
5. Spray generously with olive oil spray.
6. Place in air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, until crispy and golden.
7. Stir together dipping sauce ingredients and serve alongside the blooming onion.
Notes
Use a spoon to help coat between onion layers evenly.
If needed, air fry in batches or use a large fryer for best results.
Try spicy mayo or ranch as dipping sauce alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 onion with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: air fryer blooming onion, crispy onion appetizer, easy blooming onion recipe