Looking for a bold, crispy, and indulgent appetizer or snack that’s bursting with savory flavor and perfect for your low-carb lifestyle? These Crispy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings are exactly what you need. With their sweet-and-savory onion base, smoky bacon layer, and golden crispiness from baking or air frying, this keto-friendly version of a classic comfort food brings all the crunch—without the carb overload.
Perfect for game day snacks , party appetizers , or when you’re craving something salty and satisfying, these easy-to-make onion rings combine two favorite flavors into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet , doing low-carb eating , or just love bacon and onions, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your weekly rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfectly crispy bacon-wrapped onion rings , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings
These aren’t just any old fried onion rings—they’re a crunchy, smoky, flavor-packed delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully.
Here’s why they stand out:
- 🧅 Sweet, tender onions : Caramelized to perfection during baking.
- 🥓 Crispy bacon layer : Adds smoky richness and crunch without carbs.
- 🧄 No flour or batter required : Naturally gluten-free and keto-approved.
- 🍽️ One-pan meal prep : Minimal cleanup, maximum convenience.
- ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes
- 🧁 Great for entertaining or snacking
- 🧼 Easy to customize : Add cheese, herbs, or spices for extra flair
Whether you’re making them for yourself, your kids, or guests at a party, these bacon-wrapped onion rings will quickly become a go-to snack or side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Maui recommended)
- 8–12 slices thick-cut bacon
- Olive oil or avocado oil spray (for crisping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes for seasoning
For the Dipping Sauces (Optional):
- Keto ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo (mayo + hot sauce)
- Garlic aioli
- Sugar-free BBQ sauce
- Cream cheese dip with herbs
Tip: Use pre-cooked bacon if short on time—just wrap and bake until golden.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place an oven-safe wire rack over a tray for even airflow.
Step 2: Slice the Onions
Peel the onions and cut them into 1-inch thick slices , separating each ring carefully.
Pro Tip: Soak the onions in cold water for 10–15 minutes to reduce sharpness and enhance sweetness.
Step 3: Wrap Each Ring with Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each onion ring, securing with a toothpick if needed.
Place the wrapped rings on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket, spacing them evenly.
Optional: Season lightly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or salt before baking.
Step 4: Bake or Air Fry Until Golden
Baking Method:
Bake for 20–25 minutes , flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and onions are caramelized.
Air Fryer Method:
Air fry for 10–12 minutes , flipping once at the 6-minute mark for best crispiness.
The bacon should be deeply browned and the onions slightly soft and golden.
Step 5: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Let the bacon-wrapped onion rings rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks (if used).
This allows the bacon to firm up slightly for easier handling.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like keto ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo.
Enjoy every crispy, caramelized bite of your Crispy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~18 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~6 g |
| Cholesterol | ~40 mg |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1 g |
| Net Carbs | ~4 g |
| Protein | ~12 g |
Note: Values may vary based on bacon brand and optional seasonings.
Tips for the Best Crispy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings
- Use thick-cut bacon – It holds its shape better and crisps perfectly.
- Don’t skip soaking the onions – Reduces bitterness and enhances natural sweetness.
- Flip halfway through cooking – Ensures even browning and crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan – Allows proper air circulation for crisp bacon.
- Let cool slightly before serving – Helps the bacon stay crisp longer.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Cheesy Bacon Onion Rings
Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar between the bacon and onion before wrapping.
Spicy Kick
Brush with hot honey or sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
Maple Glazed Option
Drizzle with sugar-free maple syrup after baking for a sweet-smoky twist.
Herb-Infused
Toss with fresh thyme or rosemary after baking for aromatic depth.
Ground Meat Stuffed
Fill the center with seasoned ground pork or beef before wrapping for extra protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are bacon-wrapped onion rings keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~4g net carbs per serving , they fit perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular flour-dipped onion rings?
No—this recipe uses whole onion rings wrapped in bacon instead of a flour-based coating to keep it low-carb and keto-approved.
How do I store leftover onion rings?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze uncooked wrapped onion rings in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake or air fry directly from frozen.
What kind of onions work best?
Sweet onions like Vidalia or Maui caramelize beautifully and reduce bitterness. Yellow onions can also be used for a stronger flavor.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These Crispy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The bacon crisps up beautifully , giving a rich, smoky crust.
- The onions soften and caramelize , bringing natural sweetness and depth.
- And the no-batter method keeps it low-carb and fuss-free .
It’s the kind of snack that makes eating keto feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your bacon-wrapped onion rings beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
With Dipping Sauces
Serve with keto ranch, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
In a Snack Box
Pack with olives, pickles, hard-boiled eggs, and jerky for a high-protein board.
As Appetizers
Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy handheld bites.
Over Greens
Top a bed of arugula or kale with warm onion rings for a savory salad.
At a Party
Skewer mini versions for cocktail-style appetizers or serve with toothpicks.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Sweet Onions
Contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds—great for heart health and digestion.
Bacon
Provides B vitamins and healthy fats; best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Garlic & Herbs
Natural anti-inflammatories that support immune function and flavor development.
Even though these are savory treats, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a snack—it’s a smart addition to your keto or low-carb lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Low-Carb Comfort Snack
These Crispy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on your favorite bar foods. With their caramelized onion centers, crispy bacon shells, and bold seasoning, they’re the kind of snack that turns a simple vegetable into something magical.
Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or want to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence, these onion rings deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something truly special.
PrintCrispy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings – Crunchy, Savory & Keto-Friendly!
- Total Time: 35 mins
Description
Savory bacon and sweet onions create a mouthwatering flavor explosion!
Ingredients
1 (12 pack) regular sliced bacon
1 large yellow onion
BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions
Cut the stem off of your onion and remove the outer layer. Next, continue cutting in the same direction to create RINGS. I cut mine about a ½ inch thick so that they were sturdy enough to hold the bacon. Try not to cry!
Next, simply wrap the bacon around the onion rings trying not to overlap too much. Because the onion rings will all be in varying sizes, some of them will require one piece of bacon, while others may need 1½ or 2 slices to cover the entire onion. You can also double up on your onion rings if they’re thin.
Oven Instructions
Preheat oven to 400° F and place the bacon wrapped onion rings onto a foil lined baking sheet. If you have a baking rack, I recommend placing that onto your sheet pan for a crispier result. Cook for 15-25 minutes or until done to your liking. If you’re not using a baking rack, flip them over half way through for best results.
Air Fryer Instructions
Cook in a single layer at 390° F for about 10 minutes, flipping them over half way through. The only downfall of the air fryer is that you might have to make them in batches as you don’t want them stacked.
Grill Instructions
Set your grill to medium heat and cook for about 25 minutes, flipping them over a few times. You may need wooden skewers to hold them together if they’re flimsy.
The Finishing Touch
Once finished, brush the crispy bacon with your favorite BBQ sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
Enjoy as a delicious snack, side dish, appetizer, or even addition to a cheeseburger or sandwich. Double the recipe if you’re serving a crowd! Your family will probably fight over the last one.
Notes
Want to spice them up? You can optionally sprinkle the bacon before cooking with garlic powder, black pepper, or cayenne.
If serving as an appetizer or snack, a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing couldn’t hurt.
The time these take to cook will highly depend on your choice of bacon. Thin cut bacon is easier to wrap around the onions and cooks much faster.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 12g