Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe
Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip are bite-sized, shareable appetizers featuring tender sweet onions cut like flowers, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and flour mixture, and perfectly deep-fried to golden crispiness. Served with a rich and fluffy buttermilk ranch dip, these snacks are ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings offering an irresistible crunch and flavorful experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 mini bloomin' onions with dip (adjustable) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Onion and Coating
- 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, about 2-3 inches deep)
Buttermilk Ranch Dip
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and trim off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down on a cutting board. Make 8-12 evenly spaced downward cuts through each onion to just above the root end, creating a flower-like shape without slicing through the bottom.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Submerge the cut onions in a large bowl of buttermilk. Allow them to soak for 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere better during frying.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even coating mix.
- Coat the Onions: Remove onions from buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Carefully dredge each onion in the coating mixture, pressing gently between the petals to ensure the coating sticks well. Shake off any surplus coating.
- Heat the Oil: Fill a deep skillet or deep fryer with enough vegetable oil to fully submerge the onions (approximately 2-3 inches). Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping a small pinch of coating mixture into the oil; it should sizzle and float immediately.
- Fry the Onions: Using a slotted spoon, gently 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. Maintain consistent oil temperature and fry remaining onions in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Make the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip: While onions fry, combine 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a serving platter and serve accompanied by the creamy buttermilk ranch dip. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added freshness and color.
Notes
- Use Vidalia or sweet onions for a milder, sweeter flavor and tender texture.
- Soaking the onions in buttermilk is crucial to ensure the coating adheres properly for crisp frying.
- Avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Drain fried onions on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Leftover onions can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- For gluten-free preparation, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions.
- Healthier alternative: bake coated onions at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway for crispiness.
- Substitute sour cream for mayonnaise in the ranch dip to reduce fat content.
Keywords: mini bloomin onions, crispy onion appetizer, fried onion petals, buttermilk ranch dip, party snacks, game day appetizers, bite-sized onion flowers
