Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe
Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions are a delightful appetizer featuring sweet onions cut into blooming flower shapes, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and flour mixture, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Served alongside a creamy buttermilk ranch dip, this recipe offers a crunchy texture paired with a tangy, savory dip, making it a perfect starter for any gathering or snack time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (1 mini bloomin’ onion per person) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Onions 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 in skillet)
Creamy 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 cut off the top 1/4 inch. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board and make 8-12 downward cuts all the way to the bottom without slicing through, creating a blooming flower effect.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Submerge the prepared onions in a large bowl filled with buttermilk. Let soak for 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere during frying.
- Prepare the Coating: Mix together the flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl to create the coating mixture.
- Coat the Onions: Remove the onions from the buttermilk, shake off excess liquid. Carefully coat each onion thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure coverage between the petals, then shake off any extra coating.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or fryer to submerge the onions (about 2-3 inches). Heat to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping some coating into the oil; it should sizzle and rise immediately.
- Fry the Onions: Carefully lower one onion at a time into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Maintain consistent oil temperature for remaining onions.
- Make the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip: While frying, mix together buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the hot, crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a serving platter. Serve alongside the creamy buttermilk ranch dip. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for added color and flavor if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne pepper to the coating mixture or dip.
- Ensure onions are fresh and firm for best blooming effect.
- Maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked onions.
- Use Vidalia or sweet onions for natural sweetness that balances the spicy coating.
- Let the coated onions rest briefly before frying to help the coating set.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
Keywords: bloomin onion, crispy onion appetizer, fried onions, buttermilk ranch dip, fried snack, party appetizer, onion flower
