Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings (Print Version)

Golden, crunchy onion rings made healthier with air frying and served with a creamy, tangy dip.

# What You'll Need:

→ Onion Rings

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→ Dipping Sauce

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# Steps:

01 - Slice the onions into ½-inch thick rings. Separate into individual rings and set aside.
02 - In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
03 - Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
04 - Arrange the breaded rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Work in batches if necessary.
05 - Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
06 - Serve the crispy onion rings hot with the dip on the side.

# Expert Tips:

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  • The air fryer creates incredibly crispy results without the mess and guilt of deep frying
  • That smoky tangy dipping sauce tastes exactly like the secret sauce from your favorite burger joint
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  • Overcrowding the air fryer basket will steam your rings instead of crisp them so work in batches
  • Let the coated rings sit for five minutes before air frying for better adherence
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  • Pat your onions dry before coating to help the layers stick better
  • Preheat your air fryer for three minutes for even better crisping