Trying the Viral 2 Ingredient Onion Rings
Trying the VIRAL 2 Ingredient Onion Rings!! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Mayra Wendolyne on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $4.67 total, $1.17 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 large Yellow Onion (ends trimmed, outer layers peeled, sliced 1/8 inch with mandolin)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly shredded for best crispness)
- 2 sprays Avocado Oil Spray (light coating over onion slices)
- 1 tsp Paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 0.5 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Slice the Onions
Trim the ends off the onions, peel away the first few layers, then slice the onions into 1/8‑inch rings using a mandolin slicer. Pat the rings dry with paper towels.
Time: PT5M
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Time: PT1M
Arrange Onion Rings
Lay the onion rings in a single layer on the parchment, slightly overlapping to form a stacked ring shape.
Time: PT2M
Oil the Rings
Lightly spray the onion stacks with avocado oil spray.
Time: PT1M
Season
Season evenly with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Time: PT1M
Add Parmesan
Generously sprinkle shredded Parmesan over the seasoned onion rings, covering them completely.
Time: PT2M
Bake
Place the sheet in a pre‑heated oven and bake at 400°F for 20‑25 minutes, flipping the rings halfway through, until the cheese is golden and the onions are crisp.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 400°F
Cool and Test Crunch
Remove from oven, let cool for 2 minutes, then tap a ring – it should be crunchy throughout.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Serve immediately while hot and crisp. Enjoy as a low‑carb snack or side.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 8g
- Carbohydrates
- 5g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Low-carb, Gluten-free, Keto-friendly, Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Yellow Onion: Sweet onion, Red onion
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano, Grated mozzarella
- Instead of Avocado Oil Spray: Olive oil spray, Cooking spray
Equipment Needed
- Mandolin Slicer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowl
- Spray Bottle (oil sprayer)
- Spatula
- Oven
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Slice onions uniformly (≈1/8 inch) with mandolin
- Pat onion rings completely dry before oiling
- Apply a thin, even coat of avocado oil
- Cover rings generously with shredded Parmesan
- Flip halfway through baking for even crispness
Chef Tips from the Video
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best melt and crunch; pre‑grated cheese contains anti‑caking agents that hinder crisping.
- Avocado oil has a high smoke point, perfect for baking at 400°F without smoking.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the seasoning blend.
Troubleshooting
Onion rings are soggy after baking.
Make sure the rings are thoroughly patted dry and that the Parmesan coating is thick enough to form a crust. Increase baking time by 3‑5 minutes.
Rings burn or become too dark.
Reduce oven temperature to 375°F or shorten the bake time. Keep a close eye after the 15‑minute mark.
Cheese does not crisp.
Use freshly shredded Parmesan and ensure a generous layer. A thin spray of oil helps the cheese melt and brown evenly.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5‑7 minutes.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture will become soggy after thawing.
Room temperature: Best eaten fresh; will lose crispness after 1 hour at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Slice and pat dry the onions up to 24 hours ahead; keep them in a single layer on a tray covered with paper towels in the fridge.
- Parmesan can be pre‑sprinkled and stored covered; bake when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Parmesan Baked Onion Rings in American low‑carb cuisine?
Parmesan Baked Onion Rings have become a staple in the American low‑carb and keto community as a healthier alternative to traditional deep‑fried onion rings. The recipe gained viral popularity on social media for using just a few pantry ingredients while delivering a crunchy, cheesy snack.
What are the traditional regional variations of baked onion rings in the United States?
While classic American onion rings are deep‑fried, many health‑focused regions have adapted the dish by baking and using cheese or almond flour coatings. Some Southern variations add buttermilk and cornmeal, whereas the low‑carb version swaps flour for Parmesan and uses avocado oil spray.
How is Parmesan Baked Onion Rings traditionally served in American casual dining?
They are typically served hot as a side or snack, often accompanied by dipping sauces such as ranch, spicy mayo, or a low‑carb ketchup. In casual settings they appear on appetizer platters or as a bar snack.
What occasions or celebrations are Parmesan Baked Onion Rings associated with in American culture?
These baked onion rings are popular at game nights, potlucks, and low‑carb diet gatherings. Their quick preparation makes them a go‑to snack for movie marathons and weekend brunches.
What authentic ingredients are essential for authentic Parmesan Baked Onion Rings versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include fresh yellow onions, real shredded Parmesan cheese, avocado oil spray, and basic spices. Acceptable substitutes are sweet or red onions, Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan, and olive‑oil spray if avocado oil is unavailable.
What other low‑carb American dishes pair well with Parmesan Baked Onion Rings?
They pair nicely with grilled chicken thighs, cauliflower mac and cheese, avocado salads, or a keto‑friendly buffalo cauliflower wing platter for a balanced low‑carb meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Parmesan Baked Onion Rings?
Common mistakes include slicing the onions unevenly, not patting them dry, using too little Parmesan, and overcrowding the baking sheet. Each of these issues can lead to soggy or unevenly cooked rings.
Why does this recipe use avocado oil spray instead of butter or regular oil?
Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, allowing the Parmesan to crisp without burning. Butter would brown too quickly, and regular oil can create a greasy texture.
Can I make Parmesan Baked Onion Rings ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can slice and dry the onions ahead and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Store baked rings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat briefly in a 350°F oven to restore crispness.
What does the YouTube channel Mayra Wendolyne specialize in?
The YouTube channel Mayra Wendolyne focuses on quick, low‑carb and keto-friendly recipes, often featuring viral food hacks and simple two‑ingredient meals that are easy for home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Mayra Wendolyne's approach to low‑carb cooking differ from other health‑food channels?
Mayra Wendolyne emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, using everyday pantry items and high‑quality fats like avocado oil, while many other channels rely on specialty low‑carb products or elaborate meal‑prep techniques.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
