Prepare the Onion Rings

1. Slice the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them into ½-inch thick rings. Separate the rings, keeping them intact. Set aside smaller inner rings for another use.
2. Stuff with Mozzarella: Insert a strip of mozzarella cheese between two onion rings of similar size, creating a “sandwich” with the cheese in the middle. Repeat with the remaining rings.

Set Up the Breading Station

3. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Make the Egg Wash: In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
5. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.

Bread the Onion Rings

6. Coat in Flour: Dredge each stuffed onion ring in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess.
7. Dip in Egg Wash: Dip the floured onion ring into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
8. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Press the onion ring into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Repeat for all rings.

Bake the Onion Rings

9. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
10. Arrange the Rings: Place the breaded onion rings on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
11. Bake: Spray the rings lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

Serve

12. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.