Looking to add a delicious crunch to your favorite dishes without the guilt of deep frying? Air Fryer Crispy Onions are your new go-to topping! These golden, crunchy onion strips are made with minimal oil, delivering the same satisfying crispiness as traditional fried onions — but with fewer calories and less mess. Whether you’re topping burgers, casseroles, salads, or green beans, this recipe is a flavor booster you’ll return to again and again.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Crispy Onions
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Healthier alternative to store-bought or deep-fried onions
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Quick and easy – ready in under 20 minutes
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Perfect for meal prep or last-minute garnishes
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Crispy, golden texture without excess oil
 Ingredients
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2 large yellow or sweet onions, thinly sliced
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (optional for extra crisp)
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Cooking spray
Optional Substitutions
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Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version
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Add parmesan cheese or chili flakes for flavor variation
 Equipment You’ll Need
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Air fryer
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Mixing bowls
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Tongs or fork
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Mandoline (optional for uniform slicing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep the onions
Peel and thinly slice the onions into rings or strips. Separate them well for even coating. -
Create the coating mix
In a bowl, combine flour, panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Coat the onions
Lightly toss the onion slices in the flour mixture until fully coated. Drizzle in the oil (if using) and mix gently to coat. -
Preheat and prepare air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. -
Air fry in batches
Add a layer of coated onions to the basket (don’t overcrowd). Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy. Repeat with the remaining onions. -
Cool and crisp
Transfer the crispy onions to a paper towel-lined plate. Let them cool slightly — they’ll continue to crisp up!
 Pro Tips for Extra Crispy Onions
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Don’t overcrowd the basket. Give the onions room to crisp by cooking in small batches.
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Use panko for better crunch. Panko breadcrumbs create a more textured coating than fine ones.
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Add oil strategically. A light drizzle helps browning but isn’t essential if you want oil-free.
 Serving Ideas
Air fryer crispy onions are incredibly versatile:
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Sprinkle over green bean casserole or baked mac & cheese
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Use as a topping for burgers or hot dogs
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Add to salads for a flavorful crunch
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Serve on soups like creamy mushroom or pumpkin
Storage & Reheating
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Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Air fry for 2–3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to re-crisp. Avoid the microwave — it softens them.
 Quick Info
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 8 minutes
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Total Time: 18 minutes
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Servings: 4
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Calories per serving: ~120
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever reached for store-bought fried onions, this Air Fryer Crispy Onions recipe will change your kitchen game. It’s healthier, fresher, and packed with flavor — and once you try them, you’ll never look back. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday meal or spicing up a weekday dinner, keep a batch of these on hand for instant gourmet crunch.