The classic blooming onion is a favorite appetizer at restaurants, known for its crispy petals and bold seasoning. But deep frying it at home can be messy and unhealthy. That’s where the air fryer blooming onion comes in!
This version is made with little to no oil but still gives you that irresistible crispy coating. It’s great as a party snack, game-day appetizer, or even a fun side dish. Serve it with a creamy dipping sauce for the full experience!
Ingredients
For the Onion:
- 1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Cooking spray or oil spray
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of salt & pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion
- Cut about ½ inch off the top of the onion and peel off the skin.
- Place it root-side down. Make 4 cuts down through the onion, stopping ½ inch from the bottom. Then make 3 more cuts between each section (you should have 16–20 petals).
- Gently separate the layers with your fingers to “bloom” the onion.
2. Make the Breading Station
- In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and milk.
3. Bread the Onion
- First, coat the onion in the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
- Dip the floured onion into the egg mixture, making sure it gets into all the layers.
- Then coat it again in the flour mixture, gently pressing to stick.
4. Air Fry the Onion
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the onion in a greased air fryer-safe bowl or directly in the basket (lined with foil or parchment if needed).
- Generously spray the onion with cooking oil.
- Air fry for 15–20 minutes, or until the petals are crispy and golden brown.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
Mix mayo, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Serve
Remove carefully from the air fryer. Let it cool slightly. Serve warm with dipping sauce!
Tips & Tricks
- Sweet onions work best for blooming onions due to their size and flavor.
- For extra crispiness, double-coat the onion or use panko mixed with flour.
- Don’t skip oil spray—it’s key to a crunchy texture.
- Soaking the onion helps it bloom and reduces strong flavor.
Air Fryer Blooming Onion
Crispy, golden blooming onion made in the air fryer – a healthier twist on the restaurant favorite.
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Serves: 2–4
Ingredients
For the Onion:
- 1 large sweet onion
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- Oil spray
Optional Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayo
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp horseradish
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Cut onion into “bloom” shape. Soak in cold water (optional).
- Mix flour and spices in one bowl; eggs and milk in another.
- Coat onion in flour, then egg, then flour again.
- Spray with oil. Air fry at 350°F for 15–20 mins until crispy.
- Mix sauce ingredients (if using). Serve warm.
