I love this recipe because it delivers perfectly crunchy, golden onions using minimal oil and effort—no deep frying needed. They’re quick, satisfyingly crisp, and make a fantastic topper for dishes like biryani, burgers, soups, or salads.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I gather:
-
Onions (yellow, white, red, or shallots—sliced thinly)
-
A light coating of oil (like olive, ghee, or cooking spray)
-
Optional: seasonings such as salt, flour, cayenne, or spices for flavor boost
directions
My go-to method blends best practices from several trusted sources:
-
I preheat my air fryer—common temperatures range from 320–375°F depending on the recipe.
-
I slice the onions evenly (a mandolin helps!) and toss them lightly in oil and any seasonings I like.
-
I spread them in a single layer in the basket (no overcrowding) and air fry, shaking or stirring every 4–5 minutes for even crisping.
-
Total cook time ranges from about 18 to 30 minutes, depending on temp and amounte.
Servings and timing
-
Prep Time: Around 5–10 minutes (slicing takes the longest part)
-
Cook Time: Usually 20–25 minutes, though some methods may run up to 30 minutes
-
Servings: Varies; a single onion typically offers enough topping for several dishes
Variations
I can tweak the flavor or texture by:
-
Using flour and cayenne: Tossing onions in a flour-spice mix gives them extra crunch and a hint of heat.
-
Spicing it up: Adding garlic powder, paprika, Parmesan, or other seasonings elevates the flavor.
-
Different fats: Ghee gives rich depth; olive or avocado oil keeps it lighter.
storage/reheating
I let them cool completely before storing. Leftovers stay crisp for up to a week in an airtight container in the fridge; I can also freeze them for longer-term use.
FAQs
Can I coat onions in flour for extra crunch?
Yes—I sometimes mix them with flour and cayenne pepper before air frying for a flavorful, crispy coating.
Should I cook at high or low temp?
A two-step approach like starting at 300°F then lowering to 240°F works great for caramelized, evenly crispy results. Most other recipes stay steady around 320–375°F
Do I need to shake the basket often?
Absolutely—that helps ensure even browning and prevents burning. A shake every 4–5 minutes is perfect
Can I make these in advance?
Definitely—once cooled, they store well and can be reheated briefly to refresh the crunch.
Which onions work best?
Yellow onions give the classic golden color; red onions will yield a darker hue. Whatever variety I use, slicing evenly helps with consistent texture
Conclusion
I love how air-fryer crispy onions are easy to make, healthier than deep-fried, and endlessly versatile. Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, they bring a delightful crunch to everything from Indian biryanis to American-style burgers. I’ll definitely keep experimenting with spices and onions to make them my go-to topping!
Print
Air Fryer Crispy Onions
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Light, golden, and crunchy onions made effortlessly in the air fryer—perfect for topping burgers, salads, or casseroles.
Ingredients
2 medium onions, thinly sliced into rings
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Place beaten eggs in a second bowl and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
Dredge onion rings in flour mixture, dip into eggs, and coat with panko, pressing gently to adhere.
Arrange coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve immediately as a side, snack, or topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
