If you’re a fan of bold flavors and creative twists, you’ll love this **Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Onion Rings** recipe! It combines the crispy crunch of onion rings with the savory goodness of a bacon cheeseburger. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun main dish.
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### **Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Onion Rings Recipe**
#### **Ingredients** (Makes about 12-15 onion rings)
– 2 large sweet onions (like Vidalia)
– 1/2 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
– 4-6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for binding)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
– 2 large eggs, beaten (for coating)
– 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
– Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
– **Optional Toppings:**
– Pickles, diced
– Ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce
– Lettuce, shredded
– Additional cheese, melted
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#### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Onions:**
– Peel the onions and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rings. Carefully separate the rings, keeping the larger ones intact. You’ll need about 12-15 rings.
– Set aside the smaller onion pieces for the filling.
2. **Make the Filling:**
– In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
– Add the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is combined. Let the mixture cool slightly.
3. **Stuff the Onion Rings:**
– Take each large onion ring and carefully fill the center with the beef and bacon mixture, pressing it down gently to pack it in. Repeat for all rings.
4. **Coat the Onion Rings:**
– Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
– Dip each stuffed onion ring into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press the panko gently to ensure it sticks.
5. **Fry the Onion Rings:**
– Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the onion rings.
– Fry the onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
– Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. **Serve:**
– Serve the loaded bacon cheeseburger onion rings hot with your favorite toppings or dipping sauces. Drizzle with burger sauce, sprinkle with diced pickles, or add a dollop of melted cheese for extra indulgence.
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#### **Tips:**
– For a lighter version, you can bake the onion rings at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
– Use a piping bag or a small spoon to make filling the onion rings easier.
– Pair with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
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Enjoy your **Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Onion Rings**! They’re a fun, over-the-top treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Let me know if you’d like more creative recipe ideas! 😊
