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Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Onion Rings are a deliciously crunchy and spicy appetizer featuring thick onion rings filled with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño mixture, coated in a crispy breading, and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for game day, parties, or any casual gathering, these finger foods combine melty cheese, heat from jalapeños, and tender onion in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Onion Rings

  • 2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla), thickly sliced into ½ inch rings

Cheese Filling

  • 4 oz softened cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Breading and Frying

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • Vegetable oil, for shallow frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onion Rings: Peel and slice the onions into thick ½ inch rings, carefully separating each ring. Set aside smaller rings or leftover onion pieces for another use.
  2. Make the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, finely chopped jalapeños (with seeds removed if you prefer less heat), garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until creamy and well blended.
  3. Stuff the Onion Rings: Gently fill the center of each onion ring with the jalapeño cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is packed firmly but not overflowing.
  4. Bread the Rings: Prepare three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. First, coat each stuffed onion ring in flour, then dip it in the egg wash, and finally cover with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the dip in egg wash and breadcrumbs once more.
  5. Fry Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onion rings in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  6. Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately while the cheese inside is still melty and delicious.

Notes

  • Use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best natural sweetness.
  • Adjust heat by removing or keeping jalapeño seeds.
  • Double breading the rings ensures a crunchy coating and seals in the filling.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer for perfect frying.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to prevent oil temperature drop and soggy rings.
  • Serve freshly fried for maximum cheesiness and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper, stuffed onion rings, cheesy appetizer, spicy snack, game day food