Super Bowl Crispy Onion Rings

Name: Super Bowl Crispy Onion Rings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large onions, sliced into rings; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup sparkling water; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Party Planning

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Crispy Onion Rings! They are the perfect crunchy snack to serve at any gathering. The combination of a light, airy batter and perfectly sliced onions creates a delicious bite that everyone will enjoy. Each ring comes out golden and crispy, making them hard to resist. Plus, they are super easy to prepare, allowing me to focus more on enjoying the game with friends and family rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:29:35.949Z

When I first tried making these crispy onion rings, I wanted something that would rival my favorite pub's version. I experimented with different batter recipes until I stumbled upon a blend of flour, cornstarch, and sparkling water. The carbonation really made a difference, giving that coveted light texture!

Adjusting the seasoning was also key; I added a pinch of smoked paprika and garlic powder, which brought out a nice depth of flavor. This simple tweak made my onion rings a hit at my last Super Bowl party!

Why You'll Love These Onion Rings
Deliciously crispy texture that beats frozen alternatives
Customizable seasoning options to suit any palate
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for last-minute gatherings

Perfecting Your Onion Rings

The key to achieving the perfect onion ring texture lies in the batter. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch provides a balance of structure and crispiness. Cornstarch is particularly effective for creating that signature crunch we all love. Make sure to whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly to eliminate any lumps before adding the sparkling water, which introduces air bubbles to the batter, resulting in a light and crispy exterior. Allowing the batter to rest for a few minutes can also enhance this effect.

When selecting onions, choose sweet varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla for a milder flavor. These types caramelize beautifully when fried, enhancing the overall taste of the onion rings. Cutting them into uniform rings is essential for even cooking. Aim for rings around 1/4 inch thick; too thin and they might burn easily, too thick and they might not cook through properly. For some added complexity, try soaking the sliced rings in buttermilk for a few hours before dipping them in the batter. This adds a tangy flavor and helps to soften the onions.

Frying Tips and Serving Suggestions

Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the outside may brown too quickly without properly cooking the inside; too cool, and the rings will absorb excess oil and become greasy. A thermometer is your best friend here—aim for 375°F (190°C). Fried in small batches allows for even cooking and prevents temperature drops in the oil. Frying 4-5 rings at a time is ideal to achieve that perfect golden color. Once they’re floating and have a beautiful amber hue, they’re ready to be removed.

Serving the onion rings while they're hot will ensure maximum crispiness. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces to please everyone at your gathering. Classic choices like ranch or BBQ sauce are popular, but for a fun twist, try a spicy aioli or even a sweet chili sauce. For a fun presentation, consider stacking the rings in a cone made of parchment paper. This not only looks appealing but allows for easy sharing among guests. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in an air fryer for that freshly-fried texture.

Ingredients

For the Onion Rings

2 large onions, sliced into rings
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup sparkling water
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Onions

Start by peeling the onions and slicing them into rings that are about 1/4 inch thick, separating the rings as you go.

Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the sparkling water until the batter is smooth.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).

Fry the Onion Rings

Dip each onion ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully lower them into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Drain and Serve

Once crispy and golden, remove the onion rings and drain them on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, let the batter sit for 10 minutes before using. If you prefer a spicier twist, add cayenne pepper to the batter for an extra kick!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize the flavor of your onion rings, you can experiment with different spices in the batter. For a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you want a herby touch, dried oregano or thyme can also be a delightful addition. To make these onion rings gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend but note that results may vary in terms of crispiness.

Another consideration is the frying oil. While vegetable oil is a common choice, you can use canola or peanut oil, which has a higher smoke point and can contribute to a better frying experience. Just keep in mind that some oils impart distinct flavors; for example, peanut oil will give a nuttier taste to the rings.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning to make these onion rings ahead of time, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for a couple of hours. However, for the best texture, it's best to fry them fresh just before serving. If you end up with leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container and refrigerating for up to two days. Reheating them in an air fryer or oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) helps to regain their crispiness.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the uncooked onion rings. After battering them, arrange the rings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to fry, you can cook them straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or so to their cook time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to make the batter just before frying, as the carbonation in the sparkling water is what gives it that light texture.

→ What dip pairs well with onion rings?

Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or classic ketchup are all great options!

→ Can these be baked instead of fried?

Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This batter works well with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for tasty vegetable fritters.