Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 large onions, sliced into ½-inch rings

• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into thin sticks

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ cup butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare onions: Carefully separate onion slices into individual rings. Pat dry with a paper towel.

2. Stuff rings: Place a small mozzarella stick inside each onion ring, then press another onion ring on top to encase the cheese. You can secure with a toothpick if needed.

3. Bread the rings: Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each stuffed onion ring in flour, then egg, then panko mixture, pressing lightly to coat.

4. Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

5. Make garlic butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).

6. Toss and serve: Drizzle garlic butter over fried onion rings or brush with a pastry brush. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.