Air Fryer Blooming Onion
A giant onion sliced to open like a flower, seasoned with paprika and garlic, then air-fried until the petals are crispy and golden. Serve with ranch or a spicy dipping sauce for an impressive appetizer.
- Total time
- 18 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 85
- Protein
- 1g
Ingredients
- 1 whole large yellow onion (about 4–5 inches diameter)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp each salt and black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Trim the root end of the onion flat. Slice off the top 1/2 inch to expose the layers.
- 2
Make 12–16 vertical cuts from the top toward the root, leaving 1/2 inch intact at the base.
- 3
Gently separate the petals with your fingers to open them out, keeping the base whole.
- 4
Brush olive oil between all the petals and over the top until well coated.
- 5
Mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- 6
Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the onion, working it between the petals.
- 7
Place the onion cut-side up in the air fryer basket. No preheating needed.
- 8
Cook at 380°F for 12 minutes, until the petals are golden brown and tender at the edges.
- 9
Serve hot with ranch dip, spicy mayo, or your favorite sauce.
Tools you’ll need
- air fryer
- small knife
- small bowl
- pastry brush or spoon
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