Onion rings always feel like a treat. They’re the snack someone brings to the table that everyone ends up reaching for, no matter what else is on the plate.
This air fryer version keeps that fun, shareable energy while using simple, plant-based ingredients and no heavy oil.
The coating crisps up beautifully, the onions stay tender and sweet, and the whole process is quick enough to pull off for a weekend lunch or casual dinner side.
It’s a recipe that brings a bit of joy to the table, whether you’re serving it with burgers, piling them onto wraps, or just enjoying them with dipping sauce and good company.
Here’s how to make them at home.
Why These Onion Rings Work
Traditional onion rings usually mean hot oil and lots of cleanup. This version gets you the same golden crunch with a fraction of the mess.
The simple batter holds up in the air fryer, giving each ring a satisfying bite without needing eggs or dairy.
And because they’re air-fried, you can serve them up without the greasiness that usually comes with the territory.
It’s the kind of recipe that fits right into busy family meals or laid-back evenings when you want something special that doesn’t take all day.
Ingredients for Vegan Onion Rings
- 1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia), sliced into ½-inch rings
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened plant milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best)
- Optional: light spray of oil for extra crispness
How to Make Onion Rings in the Air Fryer
1. Set up your coating stations
In one bowl, whisk together the flour, plant milk, cornstarch, and seasonings into a smooth batter. In a second bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs.
2. Coat the onion rings
Dip each onion ring into the wet batter, letting any excess drip off, then press into the breadcrumbs to coat. Lay coated rings on a tray or plate while you work through the batch.
3. Air fry until crisp
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the onion rings in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them. Lightly spray with oil if using. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Tips for the Best Onion Rings
We’ve made these vegan air fryer onion rings many times, and a few small changes can make a big difference to the texture and flavor:
- Use sweet onions for the best flavor and soft texture: Varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla are naturally mild and become tender and slightly sweet once cooked. They’re ideal for onion rings because they don’t overpower the coating and give you a pleasant bite.
- Press the breadcrumbs on gently so they stick well: After dipping in batter and coating with breadcrumbs, take a moment to press the crumbs lightly onto each ring. This helps form a more even coating and stops the breadcrumbs from falling off during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket – cook in batches if needed for even crisping: It’s tempting to load up the air fryer, but giving the onion rings space ensures they crisp up evenly. When the basket is too full, they can steam instead of crisping.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best crunch: Onion rings are at their best right after cooking. Let them sit too long and the coating can soften – so enjoy them while they’re hot and crisp.
Serving Ideas For Onion Rings
These onion rings make a tasty snack on their own, but they’re also a great side or topping:
- Vegan burgers or lentil patties: Add a few onion rings on top or serve on the side – the crunch pairs perfectly with soft burger buns and juicy fillings.
- Wraps or tacos for added crunch: Slice them up or break into smaller pieces to add texture to wraps, burritos, or tacos. They work especially well with BBQ-style fillings or spiced tofu.
- Dipping sauces like garlic mayo, chipotle ketchup, or ranch: A good sauce takes them to the next level. Try garlic vegan mayo for richness, chipotle ketchup for a smoky kick, or dairy-free ranch for a creamy contrast.
- A fresh side salad to round out the plate: A simple green salad or coleslaw adds freshness and balance, especially if you’re serving these rings alongside heavier mains.
Storing and Reheating Onion Rings
If you’ve got leftovers, here’s how to keep them tasting as good as possible:
- Refrigerate: Store in a container with a lid for up to 2 days: Let the rings cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent sogginess from trapped steam.
- Reheat: Return to the air fryer at 350°F for 4 to 5 minutes until crisp again: Air frying is the best way to restore the crunch. Avoid the microwave if you can – it tends to make the coating soft and chewy.
- Freeze: Not recommended once cooked, as they lose texture after thawing: While you can freeze them, the coating doesn’t hold up well once defrosted. For the best experience, enjoy them fresh or just refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
These vegan onion rings are proof that you don’t need oil and eggs to get a great crunch. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and always a hit when they hit the table.
Whether you’re serving them as a side, stacking them on sandwiches, or just setting out a big plate to share, they’re the kind of recipe that brings people together.
No deep fryer. No fuss. Just crispy, golden onion rings you can feel good about making at home.
Perfectly Crunchy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia), sliced into ½-inch rings
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened plant milk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best)
Optional: light spray of oil for extra crispness
Directions
- Set up your coating stations
- Coat the onion rings
- Air fry until crisp
- Serve and enjoy
