Introduction

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions are a fun and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. These bite-sized versions of the classic restaurant favorite come with a creamy buttermilk ranch dip that complements the crunchy, flavorful onions perfectly.

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

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: Prepare the onions by peeling them and cutting off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down on a cutting board and make 8-12 vertical cuts down to the bottom, without slicing all the way through, to create a flower effect.
Step 2: Place the prepared onions in a large bowl and cover with 1 cup of buttermilk. Let soak for 10-15 minutes so the coating will adhere well.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to make the coating.
Step 4: Remove each onion from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Coat thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating between the petals, then shake off any excess.
Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C), with enough oil to submerge the onions (about 2-3 inches deep). Test readiness by dropping a small amount of coating into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 6: Carefully lower one onion at a time into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and repeat with the remaining onions, maintaining the oil temperature.
Step 7: While frying, prepare the creamy buttermilk ranch dip by combining 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried dill, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Serve the crispy mini bloomin’ onions warm with the ranch dip. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use sweet onions like Vidalia for milder flavor and natural sweetness.
For extra crunch, double-coat the onions by dipping them back into the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
Adjust cayenne pepper in the coating to control the heat or omit it if you prefer mild flavors.
Try serving the dip chilled and let flavors meld for 30 minutes before serving for a more intense taste.

Storage

Store leftover bloomin’ onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up. Keep the dip refrigerated and stir before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular onions instead of sweet onions?

Yes, but sweet onions like Vidalia are preferred for their milder, sweeter flavor which complements the crispy coating better.

Is it necessary to soak the onions in buttermilk?

Yes, soaking the onions in buttermilk helps tenderize them and allows the coating to stick better, resulting in a crispier finish.

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 125 reviews

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions are an irresistible appetizer featuring sweet Vidalia onions cut into blooming flower shapes, battered with a seasoned mixture, and perfectly deep-fried to golden crispiness. Paired with a creamy buttermilk ranch dip infused with garlic and dill, this recipe delivers a deliciously crunchy and tangy treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Onion Bloomin’ Onion 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, about 2-3 inches deep)

Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Ingredients

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 trim off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down on a cutting board and carefully slice downwards into 8 to 12 segments all the way to the bottom without cutting through, creating a flower-like bloom pattern.
Soak in Buttermilk: Place the cut onions into a large bowl, cover them completely with buttermilk, and soak for at least 10-15 minutes. This step helps the coating adhere better during frying.
Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
Coat the Onions: Remove each onion from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Carefully dredge the onion in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat between all the petals. Press the coating gently to help it stick and shake off any excess.
Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or deep fryer until it is 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping a small pinch of the flour mixture; it should bubble and rise to the surface immediately.
Fry the Onions: Using a slotted spoon, gently lower one coated onion at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until the onion turns golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining onions, maintaining oil temperature.
Make the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip: While onions fry, combine 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried dill, and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl. Stir well and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crispy bloomin’ onions on a serving platter alongside the creamy ranch dip. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch and enjoy immediately while hot and crunchy.

Notes

Use sweet onions like Vidalia for the best flavor and texture.
Be careful not to cut through the root end when slicing the onions to keep them intact for blooming.
Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and crispiness.
Drain fried onions on paper towels to remove excess oil.
The cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
Prepare the dip while frying to save time and serve fresh.
Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, as bloomin’ onions can get soggy if left out for too long.

Keywords: Bloomin onion, fried onion, appetizer, crispy onions, buttermilk dip, ranch dip, party snacks, fried appetizer