If you’re a fan of unique snacks, you’re in for a treat! Recently, my partner and I discovered a delightful twist on the popular onion ring chips that has taken the internet by storm. The combination of gooey cheese and crispy onions was so irresistible that we devoured the entire batch in one go. We never imagined that we could enhance the flavor of onion ring chips, but this new pizza-inspired version has completely won us over.
This innovative pepperoni onion ring pizza retains the same delicious foundation of crispy onions and melted Parmesan cheese. However, it elevates the dish by adding slices of pepperoni, a sprinkle of Italian herbs, and a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion!
Understanding Onion Ring Chips
Image by Nancy Mock
Onion ring chips have become one of the latest culinary sensations, especially on social media platforms. This baked snack is crafted by layering ultra-thin onion slices over a bed of grated Parmesan cheese on a baking sheet. As they bake, the onions caramelize in the melted cheese, creating a crispy exterior while remaining tender in the center.
I first stumbled upon this pizza variation through a creative TikTok account. Although the original recipe didn’t specify exact measurements, I adapted our go-to onion ring chips recipe to create this mouthwatering onion ring pizza.
Ingredients for the Onion Ring Pizza
Image by Nancy Mock
- 7 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 to 3 small white onions, peeled and sliced thinly (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
- 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1-1/2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 16 slices of pepperoni
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Steps to Create Onion Ring Pizza
Step 1: Assemble the Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Evenly spread the grated Parmesan cheese across the parchment. Next, arrange the onion slices in a single layer on top of the cheese, ensuring they touch but do not overlap. Lightly brush or spray the tops of the onions with olive oil, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over them. Finally, layer the pepperoni slices on top.
Step 2: Bake the Onion Ring Pizza
Place the baking sheet in the oven and allow the onions to bake for about 15 minutes. You’ll notice the cheese turning golden at the edges and the onions browning slightly. After this, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the onions and pepperoni, and return it to the oven for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the mozzarella is perfectly melted. Once done, transfer the pan to a wire rack and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Enjoy Your Onion Ring Pizza
This onion ring pizza is best enjoyed warm. You can slice it into pieces or simply tear off chunks to savor. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or marinara, for an extra flavor boost.
Image by Nancy Mock
Tips for Perfecting Your Onion Ring Pizza
Choosing the Right Onion
While this recipe uses white onions, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as yellow, purple, or Spanish onions. For a sweeter taste, consider using Vidalia or Walla Walla onions. The key is to select smaller onions that can fit into your slicer, allowing for more uniform slices.
Achieving Crispiness
To ensure your onion ring chips are as crispy as possible, slice the onions very thinly, ideally no thicker than 1/8 to 1/4 inch. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness. Additionally, apply only a light coating of oil to avoid sogginess.
Creative Toppings for Your Onion Ring Pizza
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or banana pepper rings. If you’re a meat lover, crumbled Italian sausage or diced ham can be excellent additions alongside the pepperoni. Just be cautious with wet toppings, as they can make the dish soggy and prevent that desired crispiness.