2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips (Low Carb)

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about the snap of a crisp, golden ring when you take that first bite. These 2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips deliver all the crunch and savory flavor you crave, without the heavy breading or deep frying. Perfectly seasoned and dipped in a creamy Lazy Tzatziki, they’re light, cheesy, and dangerously snackable.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of one of those snack cravings that hit hard but leave you staring into your pantry for something—anything—that doesn’t require a full-on cooking session. I had onions, I had parmesan, and I had just enough time to experiment. The result? These low-carb onion chips came out of the oven golden and bubbling, with edges so crispy they practically begged to be dipped.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While traditional onion rings are said to date back to the early 20th century in American diners, the idea of using cheese as a cooking vessel has deep roots. In Italian cuisine, frico—crispy baked or fried cheese—is a beloved snack. These onion ring chips are a fusion of that cheesy heritage and classic American onion rings, reimagined for the low-carb world.

Why You’ll Love 2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips (Low Carb)

You’re going to want to make these on repeat, and here’s why:

Versatile: Great as a side, a crunchy topper, or just a snack on its own.

Budget-Friendly: Just two base ingredients that are pantry staples.

Quick and Easy: From fridge to oven to plate in under 25 minutes.

Customizable: Change up the seasoning or dip to suit your mood.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves crispy, cheesy bites with a little onion zing.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake a batch and reheat in the oven for instant crunch.

Great for Leftovers: Use extras to top salads or soups for added texture.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few little tricks will take your onion chips from good to great.

1. Slice the onions evenly: Aim for 1/4 inch thickness so they bake uniformly.
2. Use finely shredded parmesan: It melts and crisps better than thicker shreds.
3. Line your tray well: Parchment paper is a must to avoid sticking.
4. Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between each chip to allow crisping.
5. Watch closely near the end: Cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Just a few basic kitchen items and you’re ready to go.

Sharp Knife or Mandoline: For thin, even onion slices.
Baking Sheet: Preferably large and flat for even cooking.
Parchment Paper: Keeps your chips from sticking.
Mixing Bowl: To toss onions with oil and seasoning.
Oven: Preheated and ready to make the magic happen.

Ingredients in 2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips (Low Carb)

Each ingredient brings something special to the table, creating a flavorful balance of crispiness, savoriness, and zing.

1. White Onions: 2 small, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds. They provide the sweet base and satisfying bite.
2. Parmesan Cheese: 7 oz shredded. This forms the crispy, golden “breading” that holds everything together.
3. Olive Oil: 1/2 tablespoon. Lightly coats the onions for better roasting and flavor infusion.
4. Salt: To taste. Enhances the natural sweetness of the onions.
5. Garlic Powder: To taste. Adds depth and a warm, savory kick.
6. Paprika: To taste. Offers smoky undertones and gorgeous color.
7. Lazy Tzatziki: For dipping. Creamy, cooling contrast that complements the savory chips.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to switch things up? Here are some easy swaps:

White Onions: Yellow or red onions for a slightly different flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano will also crisp nicely.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil works well too.
Paprika: Smoked paprika for more depth or chili powder for heat.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese: This hard, aged cheese crisps beautifully in the oven, creating a savory shell that contrasts perfectly with the soft onion center.

White Onions: Milder than yellow onions, they bring sweetness that intensifies as they roast and caramelize.

Instructions for Making 2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips (Low Carb)

Let’s get cooking! These are simple to make, but the texture and flavor are next-level satisfying.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, gently toss onion slices with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Spread a layer of shredded parmesan on the parchment, forming little nests for each onion ring.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Place an onion ring on each parmesan nest, then sprinkle more cheese on top, ensuring full coverage.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbling and edges are golden brown and crispy.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the chips cool slightly on the tray so they firm up.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve warm with Lazy Tzatziki or your favorite dip. Get ready for all the crunch.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes these chips special is the contrast of textures. The cheese turns into a lacy, golden crisp, while the onion inside softens just enough to stay tender without going mushy. The edges get beautifully browned, and every bite has a savory, salty snap followed by the subtle sweetness of roasted onion.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few quick tricks to help you master this recipe every time:

• Let the onions sit with seasoning for a few minutes before baking to deepen the flavor.
• Use parchment, not foil or bare trays, to avoid sticking.
• Try different spice blends like Italian seasoning or chili-lime.

What to Avoid

To keep your chips from flopping, steer clear of these common mistakes:

• Overcrowding the pan, which causes steaming instead of crisping.
• Using low-moisture cheese blends that don’t melt properly.
• Cutting onions too thick, which prevents even baking.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These chips can absolutely be made ahead. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5 minutes to bring back their signature crunch. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may suffer.

How to Serve 2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips (Low Carb)

Serve these alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or a big salad. They also make an incredible appetizer or game-day snack. Pair with Lazy Tzatziki, ranch, or even a spicy mayo for dipping.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers? Here’s what to do with them:

• Chop and toss into a salad for a cheesy crunch.
• Break into pieces as a topping for soups or baked potatoes.
• Layer into sandwiches for added texture and flavor.

Additional Tips

• Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives after baking for color.
• Let them rest a few minutes after baking to firm up before serving.
• Keep the oven door slightly open in the last minute if you want extra crispiness.

Make It a Showstopper

For a party platter, arrange the onion ring chips in a circle around a bowl of dip. Garnish with a dusting of paprika or chopped herbs for color. Serve on a rustic wooden board or slate for that extra wow factor.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or cayenne to the seasoning mix.
• Smoky BBQ: Use smoked paprika and a dash of dry BBQ rub.
• Italian Style: Swap garlic powder for Italian herbs and serve with marinara.
• Cheddar Blend: Mix parmesan with sharp cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Mini Bites: Use the inner smaller onion rings to create bite-sized chips.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, just reduce the cook time slightly and monitor closely to prevent burning.

Q2: Can I use pre-sliced onions?
You can, but ensure they’re evenly sliced to get a uniform bake.

Q3: Do I need to flip them halfway?
No flipping is needed, they crisp best undisturbed.

Q4: What kind of parmesan should I use?
Use freshly shredded parmesan for best texture and flavor.

Q5: Can I make these dairy-free?
Parmesan is essential here, so dairy-free versions may not crisp the same.

Q6: Can I freeze these chips?
Not recommended, they lose crispiness when thawed.

Q7: Is Lazy Tzatziki necessary?
Nope, any dip you love will work just fine.

Q8: Can I add other spices?
Absolutely, it’s a great recipe for experimenting.

Q9: Are these keto-friendly?
Yes, they’re low in carbs and perfect for keto snacking.

Q10: What if my chips don’t crisp?
Bake a few minutes longer or make sure your cheese wasn’t too thick.

Conclusion

So there you have it—2 Ingredient Onion Ring Chips that are light, crispy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re snacking solo or serving up a crowd-pleaser, this recipe checks all the boxes. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It’s the kind of simple magic that happens when the right ingredients come together at the right time.

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