If you’re looking to elevate your everyday meals with minimal effort, crispy air fryer onions are a total game changer. Whether you want to top your burgers, layer into sandwiches, sprinkle over soups, or simply enjoy a crunchy side with your favorite dips, these golden onion crisps add texture, aroma, and depth of flavor to virtually any dish. And the best part? You don’t need to deep fry them in a ton of oil your air fryer does all the magic with barely any oil and a whole lot of crunch.
Why You’ll Love Making Onions in the Air Fryer
The air fryer has completely revolutionized how we cook classic favorites. In this case, onions go from raw to golden brown and irresistibly crispy without being greasy or soggy. Traditional fried onions require deep frying, oil splatters, and lots of cleanup. But in the air fryer, it’s a straightforward process with just a few spritzes of oil and no mess.
Another bonus is how little prep time this method requires. You only need a few onions, a light oil spray, and less than 30 minutes of cooking time. The texture and flavor are phenomenal and it’s incredibly hands off. Just toss, air fry, and shake a few times during the cook.
What Type of Onions Work Best?
One of the greatest things about this recipe is its versatility when it comes to onion varieties. You can use:
- Yellow onions for a classic, slightly sweet flavor that crisps up beautifully.
- Red onions for a bolder taste and striking color.
- White onions if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Shallots if you want something more delicate and refined.
Each option provides a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment depending on what you’re serving the onions with.
How to Slice the Onions for Best Results
For the crispiest finish, it’s important to slice the onions thinly and evenly. Start by cutting the onion in half, then make thin slices across the grain. Uniform slices ensure that all the onion pieces cook evenly and achieve that coveted crispiness.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Onions
- Don’t overload the basket: Cook in batches if necessary. Too many onions at once can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Shake often: Set a timer to shake the basket every 5 minutes. This prevents clumping and ensures even cooking.
- Cool before storing: If you’re planning to store these, let them cool down completely to maintain their crispiness.
- Storage tip: Store the cooled onions in an airtight container or jar. They can be kept in the fridge for up to one month and stay crisp if properly stored.
Where to Use These Crispy Onions
These onions are incredibly versatile! Use them to:
- Top casseroles or baked dishes like green bean casserole.
- Add crunch to salads and grain bowls.
- Garnish soups for an added layer of flavor and texture.
- Serve as a crispy snack or dipper with your favorite sauces.
Whether you use them as a garnish or a flavorful crunch element in your favorite meals, these air fryer onions are an easy win.