Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe
Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring sweet onions cut to resemble a flower, coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy, homemade buttermilk ranch dip, this recipe transforms a classic restaurant favorite into a fun, easy-to-make snack perfect for parties, game days, or sharing with friends and family.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (per batch)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 mini bloomin’ onions with ranch dip 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mini Bloomin’ Onions
- 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)
For the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions
- Substitute sour cream for mayonnaise in the ranch dip for a lighter option
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version
- Make buttermilk substitute by mixing regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
- Use whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and cut off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down on a cutting board and make 8-12 downward cuts all the way to the base without slicing through, to create a blooming flower effect.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Place the prepared onions in a large bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let soak for at least 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere better during frying.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful coating mixture.
- Coat the Onions: Remove onions from buttermilk and allow excess to drip off. Carefully coat each onion in the flour mixture, ensuring the coating gets in between the petals. Press gently to help it stick and shake off any excess.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or fryer to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping a small amount of coating into the oil; it should sizzle and rise 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 to remove excess oil. Maintain oil temperature and repeat with remaining onions.
- Make the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip: While onions fry, combine buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until well mixed and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a serving platter, accompany with the creamy ranch dip, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Soaking onions in buttermilk is crucial for coating adhesion and flavor.
- Fry only a couple of onions at a time to avoid dropping oil temperature and soggy results.
- Drain fried onions on paper towels to maintain crispiness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in an oven to restore crispness.
- For a healthier alternative, bake coated onions at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use sweeter onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for best taste and tenderness.
- Make sure not to cut through the bottom of the onion when slicing, so the petals remain attached.
Keywords: bloomin onion, appetizer, crispy onion, fried onion, ranch dip, party snack, easy appetizer, buttermilk dip, game day food
