Description
Enjoy a crispy baked blooming onion, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or snack. This dish features a large sweet onion coated in a flavorful seasoned breading, baked until golden, and served with delicious dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large sweet onion (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil or cooking spray
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (for dipping)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the outer skin of the onion carefully, keeping it intact.
- Place the onion root-side up on a cutting board. Make four vertical cuts downwards, about 1/2 inch apart, stopping just before the root.
- Make four horizontal cuts around the onion, again stopping just before the root.
- Gently pull apart the “petals” of the onion to create the blooming effect.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined.
- In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip the prepared onion into the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. Shake off excess flour.
- Dip the floured onion into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Roll the onion in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick.
- Place the coated onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Drizzle or spray the onion with olive oil.
- Optionally, sprinkle more paprika or Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- After 15 minutes, rotate the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Check for doneness by gently pulling apart a petal; it should be tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with ranch dressing and ketchup for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter option, use cooking spray instead of olive oil.
- Ensure the onion is fully coated for maximum crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes