Air Fryer Crispy Onions
These Air Fryer Crispy Onions are a simple way to add golden color and savory flavor to everyday meals without deep-frying. Thinly slice the onions, coat them lightly with oil, and air fry at 160°C (320°F), stirring frequently until golden. Let them cool briefly to help the edges crisp up. Use them fresh as a topping for burgers, salads, soups, and casseroles.
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow onions approximately 300 g total
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 15 ml
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- A pinch of black pepper optional
Instructions
- Slice the onions: Peel the onions and cut them into even slices approximately 2–3 mm thick. Separate the rings gently.
- Remove excess moisture: If the slices are wet, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Season: Toss the onions with olive oil, salt, and any optional seasonings until lightly coated.
- Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for approximately 3 minutes.
- Arrange: Spread the onions in a thin layer in the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry: Cook at 160°C (320°F) for 10–16 minutes, stirring or shaking the basket every 3–4 minutes. Start checking around 8–10 minutes.
- Finish if needed: If the onions need extra color, increase to 170°C (340°F) for 1–2 minutes, watching continuously to prevent burning.
- Cool: Remove the onions when golden, spread them on a wire rack, and let them cool for 3–5 minutes. They may become crisper as they cool.
- Serve: Sprinkle over burgers, salads, soups, casseroles, or your favorite savory dishes.