Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Onion Rings

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Onion Rings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large onions, sliced into rings; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Everyday Cooking

I absolutely love preparing these baked onion rings for the Super Bowl! They’re crispy, flavorful, and a fantastic alternative to fried options. Each time I whip them up, I find that the combination of spices and a light coating creates a comforting crunch that everyone enjoys. With just the right amount of seasoning, plus being baked instead of fried, they become the perfect game day snack. I can't get enough of their satisfying texture and rich taste as I share them with friends and family while watching the big game.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:05:35.510Z

When I first decided to make baked onion rings, I experimented with various coatings to get that perfect crunch without the guilt of frying. After trying different methods, I discovered that using a mix of panko breadcrumbs with some spices really elevated the flavor and texture. Baking them allows them to cook evenly and gives that satisfying crunch we are all after.

One particular tip I learned is to let the onion rings sit after coating them for a few minutes before baking. This helps the coating adhere better, ensuring each bite is crisp and flavorful. Whenever I serve them, they disappear quickly, proving just how incredibly satisfying and delicious they truly are!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that rivals fried onion rings
Bursting with flavor from a perfect blend of spices
Healthier option for game day snacks

      

Flavorful Coating Techniques

Achieving an ideal coating on your onion rings is crucial for that coveted crispy texture. Panko breadcrumbs are the secret to success here, as their larger flakes create more surface area for crisping compared to regular breadcrumbs. I recommend toasting the panko lightly in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes before using it; this enhances their nuttiness and adds extra crunch. Keep an eye on the pan, as they can quickly go from golden to burnt.

The combination of spices in the coating is equally important. The paprika lends a warm color and slightly smoky flavor, while garlic and onion powders deepen the savory profile. Feel free to customize this mixture according to your taste; adding cayenne can kick things up a notch, or replacing garlic powder with finely grated Parmesan can introduce a delightful cheesy note.

Baking for Perfect Texture

When baking onion rings, temperature is key. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) ensures that the rings begin to crisp up as soon as they hit the hot surface. For best results, place the onion rings on a wire rack atop the baking sheet, which allows air to circulate and promotes even browning all around. If you don’t have a rack, parchment paper works well, but make sure to flip the rings halfway through cooking for a uniform crispiness.

Lightly spraying the coated onion rings with cooking spray before baking is an essential step I never skip. It helps promote that golden color and crunchy texture. If you prefer to control the amount of oil, a misting spray bottle works wonders, allowing you to evenly distribute a fine layer. This method reduces excess fat while still giving the rings a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the most delicious baked onion rings for your Super Bowl gathering!

For the Baked Onion Rings

2 large onions, sliced into rings
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking spray

Don't forget to set your oven to preheat appropriately!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your onion rings perfectly.

Prepare the Onions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Soak the onion rings in buttermilk for at least 10 minutes to help the coating stick.

Create the Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Onion Rings

Remove the onion rings from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge them in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are well coated.

Bake

Place the coated onion rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Allow the onion rings to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dip!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding cayenne pepper to your breadcrumb mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These baked onion rings are incredibly versatile for serving. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips such as homemade ranch, spicy mayonnaise, or tangy barbecue sauce. I love to set up a small dipping station at gatherings, allowing guests to choose their favorite accompaniment. You can even create an onion ring platter, combining them with other appetizers like jalapeño poppers or stuffed mushrooms for a delightful game-day spread.

If you're looking to elevate your presentation, consider garnishing the platter with chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a pop of color. It not only makes the dish look more inviting but also adds a fresh contrast to the savory flavor of the onion rings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best parts about these baked onion rings is that they can be prepared ahead of time. After coating the onion rings, you can store them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the fridge for up to an hour before baking. This not only simplifies your preparation on game day but also helps the coating adhere better when baked.

If you have leftover onion rings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the rings in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy again. However, avoid the microwave as it will make them soggy. Freezing is also an option; freeze uncooked, coated rings on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months, baking them straight from the freezer when cravings hit.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar added to mimic buttermilk.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for crispy results.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko and flour for a delicious gluten-free version.

→ What dips go well with onion rings?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli.