This recipe has my husband hooked every single time; he's absolutely addicted.

Today, we're diving into the delightful world of baked blooming onions, a healthier twist on the classic deep-fried appetizer originating from Australia, famously popularized by American steakhouse chains. This recipe leaves you with all the deliciousness and visual appeal without the guilt associated with deep-frying. Perfect for casual get-togethers, game nights, or as a unique side dish, these baked blooming onions are sure to impress your friends and family.

Baked blooming onions pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a fresh green salad to balance the heaviness of the onion. They also complement grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or even a nice juicy burger. A tangy dipping sauce like a spiced aioli or a cool ranch can tie the dish together perfectly. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a hearty soup or a plate of roasted vegetables.

Servings: 4

1 large sweet onion
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk
Olive oil spray
Dipping sauce of your choice

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut the onion by slicing off the top (about 1/2 inch) then peeling the outer layer. Place the onion cut-side down and make a series of vertical cuts, starting 1/2 inch from the root, slicing downward and outward until you’ve made around 12-16 cuts.

Gently separate the onion petals to create the blooming effect. Be careful not to break the petals.

In a bowl, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until well combined.

Dredge the onion in the egg mixture, ensuring it's entirely coated. Then, cover it with the flour mixture, using your hands to press the mixture between the petals.

Place the onion on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray it with olive oil.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the onion is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. To spice things up, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. You could also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to add a unique flavor twist. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some grated parmesan over the onion before baking for an extra savory kick.