Crispy Blooming Onion Recipe Air Fryer: Easy & Delicious

Crispy Blooming Onion in the air fryer is a fun and flavorful appetizer that delivers all the crunch and spice of a restaurant favorite—without deep frying. With its golden petals and zesty dipping sauce, this blooming onion is easier to make than it looks and perfect for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns a bold, crowd-pleasing snack into something I can make right at home with way less oil. The air fryer gives me that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender, and the seasoning is spot on. It’s perfect for game days, parties, or anytime I want to impress with something a little different.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large sweet onion (like Vidalia)

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs

• Milk

• Paprika

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Cooking spray or oil spray

For the dipping sauce:

• Mayonnaise

• Ketchup

• Horseradish

• Paprika

• Garlic powder

• Salt

directions

1. I peel the onion and slice off the top (not the root). I place the onion cut-side down and carefully make cuts from the top down, about ¾ of the way through, to form petals. I turn the onion and repeat to create 12–16 sections, then gently separate the layers.

2. In one bowl, I whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

3. In another bowl, I whisk eggs and milk until combined.

4. I dip the onion in the egg mixture, making sure it gets between the petals, then coat it in the seasoned flour. I repeat for extra coating if I want it extra crispy.

5. I place the onion in the air fryer basket and spray it all over with cooking oil.

6. I air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, checking and spraying with more oil halfway through to ensure even crisping.

7. While it cooks, I mix together the dipping sauce ingredients until smooth.

8. Once golden and crispy, I carefully remove the onion and serve it warm with the dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 large blooming onion, which serves 2–4 people as an appetizer. It takes 15 minutes to prep and 20–25 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in about 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend or almond flour. I’ve added grated Parmesan to the coating for a cheesy twist, or used ranch seasoning for a different flavor profile. If I want a spicier version, I mix hot sauce into the egg wash or add more cayenne to the flour.

storage/reheating

This dish is best fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge in a container with the lid slightly open. To reheat, I pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed and crispy again. I avoid microwaving—it makes it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use any kind of onion?

I prefer sweet onions like Vidalia because they hold up well and taste great when roasted, but yellow onions work too.

Why won’t my onion open properly?

If the cuts don’t go deep enough or the layers are too tight, it won’t bloom fully. I soak the cut onion in cold water for 30 minutes to help the petals spread out.

Do I have to double dip the coating?

Double dipping helps create a thicker, crunchier crust. I do it when I want extra texture, but it’s optional.

Can I make this ahead?

I don’t recommend making it ahead, but I sometimes prep the onion and refrigerate it (covered) for a few hours before coating and air frying.

Is there a substitute for horseradish in the sauce?

Yes, I use a bit of Dijon mustard or hot sauce for similar heat if I don’t have horseradish on hand.

Conclusion

Crispy Blooming Onion in the air fryer is a show-stopping snack that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. With its crunchy coating, tender onion center, and bold dipping sauce, it’s perfect for parties, weekends, or anytime I want to serve something special without the mess of frying. Once I try it this way, I never look back.