Air Fryer Crispy Onions have been a total game-changer in my kitchen! I used to dread making fried onions because of the greasy mess and the constant hovering over a hot pan. But ever since I discovered the magic of the air fryer, I can achieve that perfect golden brown, crunchy texture and savory aroma without any of the fuss. It’s amazing how these simple ingredients transform into such a delightful topping or snack. I was so excited to figure out exactly how to make crispy onions in air fryer that taste just as good, if not better, than the deep-fried versions. If you’re looking for easy air fryer crispy onions, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Crispy Onions Recipe

You’re going to adore making these crispy onions in your air fryer. They’re a culinary win for so many reasons:

Incredible Taste: They deliver that satisfying crunch and savory flavor you crave.
Quick Prep Time: You can whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthier Option: Enjoy that classic fried taste with significantly less oil than traditional deep-frying.
Budget-Friendly: Onions are inexpensive, making this a great way to add gourmet flavor without breaking the bank.
Family-Approved: Even picky eaters love the crispy texture and delicious taste.
Super Versatile: This crispy onions air fryer recipe is perfect for topping salads, casseroles, burgers, and more.
Homemade Goodness: Making them yourself means you control the ingredients and the flavor profile for truly homemade air fryer crispy onions.

Ingredients for Homemade Air Fryer Crispy Onions

Gather these simple ingredients to create the best air fryer crispy onions. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get that perfect crunch without the deep frying mess. Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful air fryer breaded crispy onions:

1 large yellow or sweet onion, thinly sliced – a mandoline is your best friend here for even slices!
1/2 cup buttermilk – this is my secret for super tender onions before they crisp up.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour – the base for our coating.
1/4 cup cornstarch – this is key for that extra crispy texture!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for a savory punch.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a lovely depth of flavor and color.
Salt and pepper to taste – always important for seasoning!
Olive oil spray – just a little to help them get golden.

How to Make Crispy Onions in Air Fryer

Making these amazing air fryer fried onions is a straightforward process that yields incredibly crunchy results. Forget the mess of deep frying; your air fryer does all the heavy lifting! Here’s how to get perfectly air fryer seasoned crispy onions:

Step 1: Start by slicing one large yellow or sweet onion very thinly. I find using a mandoline gives me the most even results, which is crucial for them to crisp up uniformly. Place these thin onion slices into a bowl and pour the 1/2 cup buttermilk over them. Give them a good toss to make sure every slice is coated, then let them soak for about 15 to 30 minutes. This step really helps tenderize the onions.
Step 2: While the onions are soaking, prepare your coating. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This blend is what gives our onions that delicious flavor and extra crunch.
Step 3: Remove the onions from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Dredge each batch of onions in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Gently shake off any excess flour. You’re essentially creating a light, crispy breading for your air fryer crunchy onions.
Step 4: Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Arrange the coated onions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s really important not to overcrowd the basket, so work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will steam the onions instead of crisping them.
Step 6: Lightly spray the tops of the onions with olive oil spray. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crisping.
Step 7: Once they are golden brown and delightfully crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes; they will continue to crisp up even more as they cool down.

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Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Crispy Onions

Want to elevate your homemade crispy onions? Follow these tips for guaranteed success every time you make these air fryer fried onions:

Slice evenly: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to get uniformly thin onion slices. This ensures they cook and crisp up at the same rate.
Don’t skip the soak: The buttermilk soak (or its quick substitute) is key for tenderizing the onions before they hit the heat.
Avoid overcrowding: I’ve learned the hard way that packing the air fryer basket leads to steam, not crispiness. Work in batches for the best results when making air fryer crispy onion strings.
A little oil goes a long way: A light spray of olive oil on top helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and extra crisp.

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Crispy Onions?

The secret to truly perfect best air fryer crispy onions lies in the slicing and the coating. Consistent thinness of the onion slices ensures even cooking, and a good dredge in that flour-cornstarch mix is crucial for that ultimate crunch. For more insights on the benefits of onions, check out the many benefits of onions.

Can I make Air Fryer Crispy Onions ahead of time?

You can prepare the onions by slicing and coating them a few hours ahead and keeping them refrigerated in the coating mix. However, for maximum crispiness, it’s best to cook them just before serving or plan to re-crisp them.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Crispy Onions?

The most common mistake is overcrowding the basket, which leads to soggy onions. Another pitfall is uneven slicing, causing some to burn while others remain soft. Always ensure your oil spray is light; too much can make them greasy.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Crispy Onions

These delicious homemade crispy onions are incredibly versatile! They’re the perfect way to add a satisfying crunch to so many dishes. Think of them as your secret weapon for elevating everyday meals. They’re fantastic as an air fryer crispy onion topping for green bean casserole or creamy mashed potatoes. I also love sprinkling them over salads for an extra layer of flavor and texture, acting as a beautiful air fryer crispy onion garnish. For a great salad base, consider a mediterranean chickpea salad.

Don’t stop there, though! They’re also amazing piled high on juicy burgers, sprinkled over hearty soups, or even just enjoyed as a savory snack on their own. The possibilities are endless when you have a batch of these golden, crunchy delights ready to go! You might also enjoy them with veggie burgers with avocado.

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Nutrition Facts for Air Fryer Crispy Onions

Wondering about the nutritional breakdown of these delightful crispy onions? Here’s a look at what you can expect per serving. These estimates help you see how this tasty topping fits into your meal plan.

Calories: 150
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 180mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and exact portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Crispy Onions

Once your delicious air fryer crispy onions are done, the most important step is letting them cool completely. This allows them to achieve their maximum crispiness. I usually spread them out on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. Once they’re fully cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightfully crunchy for up to 2 days. If they start to lose a bit of their crispness, don’t fret! For a great side dish, consider spaghetti with mushroom sauce.

The best way to bring these air fryer crispy onions back to life is by reheating them in the air fryer. Just pop them back into the basket for a few minutes at around 350°F (175°C) until they’re perfectly re-crisped. This method works wonderfully for reviving them and ensures you can enjoy that satisfying crunch again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Crispy Onions

Can I make Air Fryer Crispy Onions with different types of onions?

Absolutely! While yellow or sweet onions are fantastic, you can also try this recipe with red onions for a slightly different flavor profile. If you’re aiming for a sweeter taste, using sweet onions is the way to go. Just ensure you slice them thinly and evenly for the best results, whether you’re making classic crispy onions or something akin to air fryer sweet crispy onions.

How do I get my Air Fryer Crispy Onions extra crunchy, like onion rings?

To achieve that ultimate crunch, similar to what you’d find in air fryer onion rings crispy, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Even slicing and a good coating are crucial. Also, don’t skip the cornstarch in the flour mixture, as it’s a key ingredient for that extra crispiness. A light spray of oil before and during cooking also helps them achieve a beautiful golden-brown, crunchy exterior. For a similar crunchy texture, try pistachio pavlova meringue cakes.

What if I don’t have buttermilk for the Air Fryer Crispy Onions?

No worries if you’re out of buttermilk! You can easily make a quick substitute. Just mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it slightly curdles. This creates a very similar effect for tenderizing the onions, making them perfect for your air fryer fried onions.

Can I make Air Fryer Crispy Onions gluten-free?

Yes, you can! To make these air fryer breaded crispy onions gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You might also want to use a gluten-free cornstarch or tapioca starch. The soaking and coating process remains the same, and you’ll still get wonderfully crunchy results!

Variations of Air Fryer Crispy Onions You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic air fryer crispy onions, you might want to experiment with different flavors and textures! These variations are super fun and easy to try. For a lighter, more delicate bite, you can aim for something like air fryer onion chips crispy by slicing the onions even thinner. For a delicious homemade sauce to accompany them, consider homemade tomato sauce.

If you’re looking for gluten-free options, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is also gluten-free. For a spicy kick, try adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture. You can also create delicious air fryer crispy onion strings by cutting the onions into thinner, longer strips instead of rings. Don’t be afraid to play with different spices – smoked paprika, onion powder, or even a touch of Italian seasoning can transform your homemade crispy onions!