Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide. Carefully separate the rings, and select pairs of rings with a small gap between them (big enough to fit cheese strips). Save the smaller inner rings for another use.

Step 2: Stuff with Cheese

Cut the mozzarella (or your chosen cheese) into strips that fit snugly between the onion rings. Place the smaller onion ring inside a larger one to create a gap, then fill the gap with a cheese strip. Repeat with the remaining onion rings and cheese.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare three shallow bowls for breading:

• Bowl 1: Add the all-purpose flour.
• Bowl 2: Whisk the eggs with a tablespoon of water.
• Bowl 3: Mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bread the Onion Rings

Dip each stuffed onion ring first into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere. Place the breaded rings on a tray and repeat with the remaining rings.

Step 5: Chill the Rings

Transfer the breaded onion rings to the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. Chilling helps the breading adhere during frying and prevents the cheese from leaking out.

Step 6: Fry the Onion Rings

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onion rings in batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the rings and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the cheese-stuffed onion rings hot with your favorite dipping sauces on the side. Enjoy the gooey, crispy goodness!