Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Bloomin’ Onion: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite!
The air fryer blooming onion is a stunning and tasty appetizer that’s sure to impress. While creating this recipe, I went through a few trial-and-error attempts, which I discuss below. This version uses no egg mixture, and skips the mess of deep frying. Inspired by the iconic Outback Steakhouse appetizer, this homemade version brings out the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ without the guilt.
How Does an Air Fryer Work?
Think of an air fryer as a miniature convection oven. It cooks by circulating hot air around the food, allowing it to get crispy without submerging it in oil.
How Long Does It Take to Make an Air Fryer Bloomin’ Onion?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia, yellow, or white)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano (or 1/4 tsp dried)
- 1-1/4 cups water (or substitute beer)
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- Non-stick cooking spray
Directions for Making Air Fryer Bloomin’ Onion
1. Prepare the Onion
- Peel the outer skin of the onion and trim the top (non-root end).
- Place onion cut-side down and make 8-12 slices downward, stopping 1/2 inch before the root.
- Soak onion in ice water for 2+ hours to help the petals open.
2. Make the Batter
- Mix flour and spices in a bowl.
- Add water or beer gradually, whisking until smooth.
- Dry the onion well and spoon batter over it to coat all petals.
3. Add Breadcrumbs & Air Fry
- Set onion over breadcrumbs and sprinkle more on top.
- Spray with cooking spray.
- Air fry cut-side up at 400°F for 10 mins, then 350°F for 15 mins.
Expert Tips
- Soaking the onion helps the petals bloom for better crisping.
- Use a spoon or pour batter—don’t dunk—to maintain shape.
- Try substituting water with beer for a flavor twist.
Air Fryer Bloomin’ Onion Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Mix all ingredients while onion cooks. Serve immediately.
Air Fryer Blooming Onion Recipe
Unleash the magic of an Air Fryer Bloomin' Onion Recipe! Learn how to create a crispy, healthier version of this favorite appetizer at home, without the deep-frying mess. Perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 large onion
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 Tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano (or 1/4 tsp. dried oregano)
- 1-1/4 cups water
- 1/2 cup Italian Bread Crumbs
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
Peel the onion and cut off the top.
Place cut side down on to a cutting board. Cut downward, from the center outward, all the way to the cutting board. Repeat, making eight evenly spaced cuts around the onion. Make sure knife slices all the way through all of the layers. Leave onion connected in the center.
Carefully, place the onion in ice water for at least two hours.
Mix all of the ingredients in a small bowl.
After soaking onion in cold water, remove and dry. I place mine on an elevated mesh plate and then use a paper towel to pat dry.
Preheat air fryer to 400-degrees Fahrenheit.
Add water to spice mixture to make a batter and whisk well to get rid of lumps.
NOw coat the onion with the batter. Spread the layers out and make sure they are covered on the inside. I use a slotted spoon under the onion so I can lift easily when I am done.
Move battered onion to a small bowl with bread crumbs and set onion on top to coat bottom of onion with bread crumbs.
Lightly coat the top of the onion with bread crumbs.
Spray onion with cooking spray.
Move onion to the air fryer, cut side up.
Cook at 400-degrees F for 10 minutes, then cook 15-minutes at 350-degrees F.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 199Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1290mgCarbohydrates: 40gFiber: 3gSugar: 3gProtein: 6g
The Nutritional Information may not be accurate.
FAQs
What type of onion is best for this recipe?
Vidalia, white, or yellow onions are recommended due to their sweetness.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, but all-purpose flour works best for coating and crisping in the air fryer.
How do I prevent the onion from falling apart?
Keep the root end intact and slice gently. Handle with care when coating and placing in the air fryer.