How to make delicious and easy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings
🥓 How to make delicious and easy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 220 calories per serving. Recipe by Carrie Brown on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 55 min
Cost: $11.91 total, $2.98 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Yellow Onion (Large, cut into 1/2‑inch thick rings and separate the layers)
- 12 slices Thin‑Sliced Bacon (Prefer smoked, thin cut so it sticks to itself and shrinks nicely)
- 1 piece Shish Kabob Skewer (Wooden or metal skewer used to hold bacon in place while wrapping (optional))
Instructions
Cut the Onions
Trim the tops and bottoms off each onion, slice them into 1/2‑inch thick rings, and gently separate the layers to create individual rings.
Time: PT5M
Prepare the Bacon
Lay out thin‑sliced bacon on a clean surface. If the slices are very long, cut them in half so they fit comfortably around an onion ring.
Time: PT2M
Wrap the Onion Rings
Starting with the wide (fat) end of a bacon slice, spiral‑wrap it around an onion ring, tucking the skinny end underneath the previous wrap. Use a second slice if needed to fully cover the ring and keep the ends tucked.
Time: PT6M
Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Place the wrapped rings in the air‑fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each so hot air can circulate. You can add a second layer if your basket has a removable divider.
Time: PT2M
Air‑Fry
Set the Ninja air fryer to the Air Crisp mode at 400°F. Cook for 15 minutes, flipping the rings halfway through (around the 7‑minute mark) to ensure both sides are golden and crispy.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 400°F
Drain Excess Fat
Using tongs, transfer the cooked rings to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess bacon fat and prevent smoke in the kitchen.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Serve the bacon‑wrapped onion rings hot with your favorite dipping sauce (sweet BBQ, spicy red pepper, or avocado sauce).
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 220
- Protein
- 8g
- Carbohydrates
- 8g
- Fat
- 16g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Keto-friendly, Low‑carb, Gluten‑free, Nut‑free
Allergens: Pork (bacon), Onion
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Yellow Onion: Red onion, Sweet onion
- Instead of Thin‑Sliced Bacon: Turkey bacon, Pancetta
- Instead of Shish Kabob Skewer: Toothpick, Metal skewer
Equipment Needed
- Ninja Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Basket
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Tongs (optional)
- Paper Towels (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Wrap the bacon tightly around each onion ring, tucking the ends to prevent unraveling.
- Do not overcrowd the air‑fryer basket; give each ring space for airflow.
- Flip the rings halfway through cooking for even crispness.
- Drain the rings on paper towels to remove excess fat and avoid smoke.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Thin‑cut bacon shrinks dramatically and sticks to itself, giving a tighter wrap.
- Pre‑heat the air fryer for 2 minutes before adding the rings for a quicker crisp.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on the bacon before cooking.
Troubleshooting
Bacon isn’t crisping enough.
Increase the cooking time by 2‑3 minutes or raise the temperature to 410°F. Make sure the rings aren’t touching.
Onion ring is still raw in the center.
Add an extra 2‑3 minutes of cooking time and flip again. Thinner onion slices cook faster.
Bacon pieces separate during cooking.
Use a skewer or toothpick to secure the ends before air‑frying, or wrap with two thin slices for extra adhesion.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the air fryer for 3‑4 minutes.
Freezer: Not recommended; bacon loses crispness after freezing.
Room temperature: Best served immediately; will become soggy after 1 hour at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Wrap the onion rings and store them uncovered on a plate in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before cooking.
- If you need to make a large batch, cook in multiple batches and keep the finished rings warm in a low oven (200°F).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of bacon‑wrapped onion rings in American cuisine?
Bacon‑wrapped onion rings are a modern American bar snack that combines two classic comfort foods: crispy onion rings and smoky bacon. They gained popularity in the 2000s with the rise of air‑fryer cooking, offering a lower‑fat alternative to deep‑fried versions while still delivering indulgent flavor.
What regional variations of bacon‑wrapped onion rings exist in the United States?
In the Southern U.S., the rings are often served with a spicy Cajun rub on the bacon. In the Pacific Northwest, they may be paired with a maple‑glazed bacon for a sweet‑savory twist. The basic technique remains the same across regions.
How is bacon‑wrapped onion rings traditionally served in American diners?
They are typically presented on a small plate with a side of dipping sauce such as ketchup, ranch, or a sweet‑and‑tangy barbecue sauce, and are often enjoyed as a shareable appetizer alongside burgers or fried chicken.
What occasions or celebrations are bacon‑wrapped onion rings associated with in American culture?
They are popular at casual gatherings like backyard barbecues, game‑day parties, and brunch buffets, especially when a low‑carb or keto‑friendly option is desired.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for bacon‑wrapped onion rings versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe uses fresh yellow onion rings and thin‑cut smoked pork bacon. Acceptable substitutes include red or sweet onions for a milder flavor, and turkey bacon or pancetta for those avoiding pork, though texture may vary.
What other American side dishes pair well with bacon‑wrapped onion rings?
They pair nicely with classic sides such as coleslaw, pickles, loaded potato skins, or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making bacon‑wrapped onion rings?
Common errors include overcrowding the air‑fryer basket, which prevents crisping; using thick‑cut bacon that doesn’t shrink enough; and failing to flip the rings halfway, resulting in uneven browning.
Why does this recipe use thin‑sliced bacon instead of regular thick bacon?
Thin bacon adheres to itself more easily, shrinks quickly, and cooks faster, ensuring the onion stays tender while the bacon becomes perfectly crisp without burning.
Can I make bacon‑wrapped onion rings ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can wrap the rings and refrigerate them uncovered for up to 4 hours before cooking. After cooking, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer to restore crispness.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the bacon‑wrapped onion rings are done?
The bacon should be deep golden‑brown and crisp, with a slight shrink‑tightness around the onion. The onion inside should be soft and slightly caramelized, not raw or overly mushy.
How do I know when the bacon‑wrapped onion rings are done cooking?
When the bacon has reached a uniform golden‑brown color, feels firm to the touch, and the onion ring yields slightly under a gentle press, the rings are done. A quick visual check for any pink bacon indicates they need a minute or two longer.
What does the YouTube channel Carrie Brown specialize in?
The YouTube channel Carrie Brown focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking tutorials that emphasize easy techniques, air‑fryer recipes, and low‑carb or keto‑friendly meals for busy lifestyles.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Carrie Brown?
Carrie Brown’s cooking philosophy centers on simplicity, minimal cleanup, and making flavorful dishes with everyday ingredients. She often showcases air‑fryer and one‑pan methods to keep cooking fast and accessible.
How does the YouTube channel Carrie Brown’s approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Carrie Brown adapts classic American comfort foods—like burgers, fries, and onion rings—into healthier, low‑carb versions using air‑fryer technology, whereas many other channels stick to traditional deep‑frying or higher‑calorie preparations.
What other American recipes is the YouTube channel Carrie Brown known for?
Carrie Brown is known for recipes such as keto cheeseburger omelets, air‑fried chicken wings, low‑carb cauliflower mac & cheese, and quick skillet steak dishes.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
