Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings Recipe
Crispy and creamy Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings combine the spicy kick of jalapeños with the rich flavors of cream cheese and cheddar, all encased in a perfectly fried onion ring. This appetizer is a flavorful crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or game day snacks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 stuffed onion rings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Onions
- 2 large yellow or sweet onions
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced, seeded for mild heat
- Optional: ¼ cup bacon bits
- Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped scallions
Breading & Frying
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Prep Onions: Slice the onions into ½-inch thick rings and carefully separate them into sturdy individual layers that can hold the stuffing without breaking.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, finely diced jalapeños, and the optional bacon bits, garlic powder, and chopped scallions. Chill this mixture in the fridge for about 10 minutes to firm up.
- Stuff Rings: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill the center of each onion ring with the cream cheese mixture, smoothing the filling evenly within each ring.
- Freeze: Arrange the stuffed rings on a parchment-lined baking tray and freeze for 20 to 30 minutes to help set the filling and make breading easier.
- Bread Rings: Coat each frozen stuffed onion ring first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally press into the seasoned breadcrumbs or panko. For an extra crunchy exterior, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb step once more.
- Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the stuffed onion rings in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a golden brown and crispy.
- Drain & Serve: Remove the fried rings to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces for a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- For milder heat, remove the jalapeño seeds before dicing.
- Ensure onions are thick enough to hold the filling and breading.
- Freezing the stuffed rings prior to breading helps maintain shape during frying.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even cooking and crispiness.
- Double breading adds extra crunch but may increase frying time slightly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Keywords: Jalapeño popper, stuffed onion rings, appetizer, fried onion rings, spicy snack, cream cheese recipe
