Mini air fryer blooming onions are a fun and delicious snack or appetizer everyone will love. These crispy, flavorful onions are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during a movie night. The air fryer makes them light and crunchy without the extra oil.

Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making mini air fryer blooming onions at home is simple and quick. You can control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor. Plus, they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried onions, so you can indulge without feeling guilty!
How to Make Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
Ingredients
- 2 small onions
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Cooking spray or oil for misting
- Ranch or favorite dipping sauce
Directions
- Prepare the onions by peeling them and trimming the root slightly, keeping the base intact.
- Slice each onion into 8 sections without cutting through the base, then gently separate the petals.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Dip each onion into the egg mixture, ensuring to get between the petals, then coat well with the seasoned flour.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the coated onions in the basket and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy, turning halfway for even browning.
- Remove and serve immediately with ranch or spicy mayo.
How to Serve Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
Serve mini air fryer blooming onions hot and crispy. They are great as a snack or appetizer. Pair them with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor. They are sure to be a hit!
How to Store Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
If you have leftovers, store the blooming onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheating them in the air fryer for a few minutes will help restore their crispiness.
Tips to Make Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
- Choose small onions for a better bite-sized snack.
- Make sure to season the flour well for the best flavor.
- Ensure the air fryer is preheated for even cooking.
Variation
You can add different spices to the coating for variation. Try adding chili powder for heat or Italian seasoning for a different taste!
FAQs
Can I use large onions for this recipe?
Yes, but keep in mind that larger onions will take longer to cook.
What dipping sauces go well with blooming onions?
Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce are all great options.
Can I make these blooming onions in a regular oven?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time and use more oil to ensure they become crispy.

Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
Ingredients
Onion Preparation
- 2 small small onions Choose small onions for a better bite-sized snack.
Breading Mix
- ½ cup all-purpose flour Ensure to season the flour well for the best flavor.
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper Optional for added heat.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Wet Mixture
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- as needed Cooking spray or oil for misting For light coating.
Dipping Sauce
- to serve Ranch or favorite dipping sauce Pairs well for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel the onions and trim the root slightly, keeping the base intact.
- Slice each onion into 8 sections without cutting through the base, then gently separate the petals.
Coating
- In a bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Dip each onion into the egg mixture, ensuring to get between the petals, then coat well with the seasoned flour.
Cooking
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the coated onions in the basket and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy, turning halfway for even browning.
- Remove and serve immediately with ranch or spicy mayo.