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