Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Onion Rings
Ingredients:
2 large onions, cut into thick rings
½ pound ground beef, cooked and seasoned
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying
Construction:
Prepare the Onion Rings: Slice onions into thick rings and separate them. Choose the larger rings for stuffing.
Make the Filling: Mix cooked ground beef, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon.
Stuff the Onion Rings: Take two onion rings of different sizes, nest one inside the other, and pack the gap with the beef mixture. Press firmly so it holds together.
Coating Process: Dredge each stuffed onion ring in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat for a thicker crust.
Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rings in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Serving: Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations:
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Swiss, or smoked gouda.
Alternative Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different twist.
Baked Option: For a healthier version, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
BBQ Style: Add a drizzle of BBQ sauce to the beef mixture for a smoky flavor.
Tips:
Use Cold Ingredients: Chilling the stuffed onion rings before breading helps them hold their shape.
Double Dipping: For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process.
Oil Temperature Matters: Keep oil at 350°F to prevent greasy or undercooked rings.
Serve Immediately: These taste best fresh and crispy; avoid letting them sit too long.
Experiment with Seasonings: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or steak seasoning to the beef for extra flavor.
Enjoy your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Onion Rings as a fun appetizer or indulgent snack!