Introduction

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions are a fun and delicious appetizer that brings a restaurant favorite right to your kitchen. Served with a creamy buttermilk ranch dip, these crunchy, flavorful blooms are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a savory snack.

The image shows a white plate filled with crispy, golden-brown onion rings shaped like flowers, each layer formed by thin, curly onion slices fried to a crunchy texture with small green herb bits sprinkled on top. A small beige bowl with a smooth texture sits on the left side of the plate, filled with creamy white dipping sauce speckled with chopped green herbs. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a soft, natural light highlighting the warm tones and details of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 small to medium-sized onions (Vidalia or sweet onions work best)
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (for the dip)
1 teaspoon dried dill (for the dip)

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the onions and cut off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down on a cutting board and make 8-12 downward cuts to the bottom without slicing through, creating a flower shape.
Step 2: Place the onions in a large bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let soak for 10-15 minutes to help the coating stick later.
Step 3: In another bowl, mix flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Remove each onion from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Coat the onions thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to get the coating between petals. Shake off excess.
Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping a small amount of coating into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
Step 6: Carefully lower one onion at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Keep oil temperature steady and repeat with remaining onions.
Step 7: While frying, make the dip by mixing buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well and adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 8: Arrange the crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a serving platter with the ranch dip. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder flavor and crunchier texture.
Add extra cayenne pepper in the coating for a spicier kick.
Try substituting seasoned breadcrumbs with panko for even crispier blooms.
For a dairy-free dip, replace buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk and mayonnaise with a vegan alternative.

Storage

Store leftover bloomin’ onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to help regain crispiness. The ranch dip is best kept separately and refrigerated for up to 3 days.

How to Serve

A white round plate holds several golden-brown, crispy fried onion flowers arranged close together, each with thin, curly layers resembling petals coated in a crunchy texture and sprinkled with small green herb bits. To the left side inside the plate, there is a small beige bowl filled with a creamy white sauce flecked with green herbs. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting that highlights the texture of the onion flowers and the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make bloomin’ onions ahead of time?

They are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their crispiness, but you can prepare and coat the onions in advance. Fry them just before serving for the best texture.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil or other neutral oils with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, work best for frying to ensure even cooking without overpowering flavors.