🧅 Air Fryer Blooming Onion

This Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a crispy, golden, restaurant-style appetizer — but made at home with no deep frying! Perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 large yellow onion
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 egg (optional, for extra crispiness)
• Cooking spray or oil (for air frying)

Instructions

1. Prep the onion: Cut the top off the onion and peel it. Flip it upside down and cut from the top in a radial pattern to create “petals” without cutting through the base.
2. Soak in buttermilk: Place the onion in a bowl of buttermilk for 10–15 minutes to help the coating stick.
3. Make the coating: In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the onion: Shake off excess buttermilk, then carefully dredge the onion in the flour mixture, getting between the petals.
5. Air fry: Place the onion in the air fryer basket (flower-side up). Lightly spray with oil. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, until golden and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo).

Tip: Use a heat-safe bowl or cup to hold the onion upright while coating to keep the petals open!

« Back to The Recipe Box