Introduction

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer. These golden, crunchy onions paired with a tangy, smooth dip make a delicious starter for any occasion. Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, they’re sure to become a favorite.

A white plate holds a stack of golden-brown fried onion rings shaped like roses, with many thin, crispy layers curling outward and topped with small pieces of green herbs. Next to the onion roses, there is a small, light beige bowl filled with creamy white dipping sauce speckled with green herb pieces. The onion roses have a crunchy texture and are arranged closely together on a white paper lining inside the plate. The whole plate is set on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (for the dip)
1 teaspoon dried dill (for the dip)

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the onions and cut off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down and slice 8-12 times from top to bottom, stopping just before the root to create a flower shape.
Step 2: Submerge the onions in a bowl of buttermilk and soak for 10-15 minutes to help the coating stick.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to create the coating mixture.
Step 4: Remove onions from buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Coat each onion thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently between the petals. Shake off any extra coating.
Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s deep enough to submerge the onions.
Step 6: Fry each onion carefully in the hot oil for 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels. Maintain oil temperature and fry in batches.
Step 7: For the dip, combine 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 8: Serve the crispy bloomin’ onions with the creamy ranch dip. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

Substitute regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice for buttermilk if unavailable.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Bake coated onions at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier alternative.
Replace mayonnaise with sour cream in the dip for a lighter option.
Use whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients.
Don’t overcrowd the fryer to keep the oil temperature steady and onions crispy.

Storage

Store leftover mini bloomin’ onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven to restore crispiness rather than using a microwave. You can prepare the onions up to coating ahead of time and refrigerate before frying for convenience.

How to Serve

Golden brown onion rings shaped like roses are layered closely on a white plate, each with a crispy texture and sprinkled with small green herb bits. In the foreground, a small white bowl filled with creamy white dipping sauce flecked with green herbs sits on a white napkin, partially surrounded by the onion roses. The surface underneath the plate is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these mini bloomin’ onions ahead of time?

You can prepare the onions in advance up to the frying step and keep them refrigerated. Fry them just before serving for the best crisp texture.

What type of onion is best for this recipe?

Sweeter onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal due to their mild flavor and tenderness, though regular yellow onions can also be used if needed.

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a healthier choice. Coat the onions and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until crispy.

What else can I serve with the ranch dip?

The creamy buttermilk ranch dip pairs wonderfully with vegetables, tortilla chips, or other appetizers like spicy aioli or roasted garlic dip for variety.