Introduction

The Blooming Onion is a stunning appetizer that combines crispy, golden petals of sweet onion with a flavorful dipping sauce. Perfect for sharing or serving as a fun starter, this baked version offers all the crunch and taste without the extra oil from frying.

The image shows several roasted onion flowers arranged on a dark slate slab against a white marbled background. Each onion flower has about three to four layers, fanned out to resemble petals, with a golden-brown, slightly charred edge that adds texture and color contrast to the creamy white inner layers. Small green herb bits are sprinkled on top, adding a hint of fresh color, while golden breadcrumbs are scattered around the onion flowers on the slab, enhancing the rustic and savory feel. The focus is on the front onion flower, showing its translucent, caramelized layers and crispy edges in sharp detail, while the background flowers appear softer and blurrier. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large sweet onions (Vidalia is a winner)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking spray
For the dipping sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the onion by chopping off the top (leaving the root intact). Peel away the outer skin. Place the onion root-side down and carefully cut 8 to 12 even segments, stopping just short of the root so the petals stay connected. Gently separate the petals to open up the onion.
Step 3: Set up your breading station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper; one with whisked eggs and milk; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Dredge the onion thoroughly in the seasoned flour, making sure to get between each petal. Dip the floured onion into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so they adhere well.
Step 5: Place the coated onion on the prepared baking sheet. Spray generously with cooking spray to encourage crispiness. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning.
Step 6: While the onion bakes, prepare the dipping sauce by mixing together mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, hot sauce (if using), paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 7: Remove the blooming onion from the oven once golden and crispy. Serve immediately with a generous scoop of the creamy dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer experience.

Tips & Variations

Use Vidalia or any other sweet onion for the best flavor and milder bite.
For extra crispiness, press panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the onion petals during coating.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the flour mixture for a smoky twist.
If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the hot sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Test doneness by inserting a knife gently between petals; it should pierce easily when fully cooked.

Storage

Store any leftover baked blooming onion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows several roasted onions cut open like flowers with multiple pale white layers peeling back and crisped to a golden brown at the tips. Each onion is topped with a crunchy-looking crumb mixture in golden orange hues with small green herb leaves scattered on top and around. The onions sit closely together on a dark slate surface, highlighting their caramelized edges and crumbly topping texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I fry the blooming onion instead of baking it?

Yes, traditionally blooming onions are deep-fried for extra crispiness, but baking is a healthier alternative that still delivers great texture and flavor.

How do I keep the petals from falling apart when cutting the onion?

Be sure to leave the root end intact while cutting, and cut all the way down except for about half an inch at the bottom so the petals hold together during breading and baking.