If you’re looking for an irresistible appetizer that combines crispy, smoky bacon with the sweetness of caramelized onions and a spicy kick, this bacon-wrapped onion rings recipe will become your new favorite! Perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or as a snack during movie night, these onion rings are sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal. The combination of bacon and onion is a timeless pairing, and adding a touch of sweetness from brown sugar and heat from spicy sauce creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
Ingredients:
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16 slices of bacon (thick-cut for maximum flavor)
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1 ½ cups brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
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Onions (sliced into rings, enough to serve 4-6 people)
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3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust the spice level to your liking)
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Optional: Freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika for added seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will ensure the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up to perfection. While the oven is heating, prepare the onions and bacon.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
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Lay the bacon slices flat on a sheet of parchment paper or a large cutting board.
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Coat each slice of bacon generously with brown sugar on both sides. Gently press the sugar into the bacon to ensure it sticks well. The sugar will not only add sweetness but will also help in creating a caramelized crust when cooked.
3. Preparing the Onion Rings:
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Slice the onions into rings of your desired thickness. Aim for rings that are about 1/2 inch thick to ensure they hold their shape while baking. If you want extra crispy onion rings, you can also dip the rings in flour or panko breadcrumbs before proceeding, but this step is optional.
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In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of hot sauce. You can adjust the amount depending on your preferred level of spice. Dip each onion ring into the hot sauce, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Wrapping the Onion Rings:
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Now comes the fun part: wrapping the onions! Take one of the hot sauce-coated onion rings and wrap it with a slice of brown sugar-coated bacon. Ensure that the bacon fully surrounds the onion ring, overlapping the ends of the bacon slightly to keep it secure.
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Repeat this process for all the onion rings. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, or even smoked paprika on top of the bacon before wrapping the onions for an extra burst of seasoning.
5. Baking:
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Once all the onion rings are wrapped in bacon, place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure the rings are arranged in a single layer with a little space between each to allow the heat to circulate evenly.
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Sprinkle a little extra brown sugar on top of the bacon-wrapped onion rings for an additional sweet crust during baking.
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Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Depending on your oven and the thickness of the bacon, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. You can check them halfway through and flip the onion rings for more even crisping if desired.
6. Final Touches:
Once your bacon-wrapped onion rings are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. This brief cooling period will help the bacon firm up slightly, making it easier to handle and serve.
7. Serving:
Serve your delicious bacon-wrapped onion rings warm, as a snack or an appetizer. They pair wonderfully with a cool, tangy dipping sauce such as ranch dressing, blue cheese, or barbecue sauce. For those who love an extra kick, serve them with a sriracha mayo or jalapeño cream cheese.
Pro Tips for Extra Flavor and Texture:
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For Extra Crispiness: If you prefer extra-crispy bacon, you can cook the bacon for a few minutes in a pan before wrapping it around the onions. This will reduce the overall cooking time in the oven, giving you a quicker, crispier result.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to your hot sauce for a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the bacon’s natural taste.
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Add Veggies: To balance out the richness, you can serve these bacon-wrapped onion rings alongside a light salad or some fresh vegetables for a healthier meal option.
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Vary the Spice: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile that still provides some heat without being overwhelming.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These bacon-wrapped onion rings strike the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. The crunchy bacon on the outside combined with the juicy onion inside creates a unique texture contrast that is hard to resist. The caramelization from the brown sugar gives it that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, while the hot sauce adds just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delicious snack, these bacon-wrapped onion rings will be the star of the show.
Conclusion:
This bacon-wrapped onion rings recipe brings together a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With the combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and spicy hot sauce, every bite is a treat. Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and dips to create your own perfect combination!
Enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped onion rings with your favorite drink, and watch them disappear in no time!
