Air Fried Pearl Onions

Air Fried Pearl Onions: Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistibly Easy

There’s something magical about pearl onions—their petite size, delicate sweetness, and ability to transform into golden, caramelized bites with minimal effort. And when you toss them into the air fryer? Pure kitchen sorcery happens. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a salad topper with crunch, or a snack that’s equal parts fancy and fuss-free, these air fried pearl onions deliver every time.

I first fell for pearl onions during a cozy winter dinner party, where they were nestled in a creamy gratin. But let’s be honest: peeling them felt like a tiny kitchen workout. Enter the air fryer, my trusty shortcut to crispy perfection. No tedious peeling (thanks, frozen pearl onions!), no babysitting a skillet, and no guilt over devouring half the batch straight from the basket. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn these little alliums into a crave-worthy treat, you’re in the right place.

Why You’ll Love Air Fried Pearl Onions

Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:

Effortless: Skip the peeling—frozen pearl onions work beautifully.
Versatile: Toss them in salads, grain bowls, or serve alongside roasted meats.

Meal-prep friendly: Make a big batch to use all week.
Kid-approved: Their sweet, crispy texture is a hit with little eaters.

How to Make Air Fried Pearl Onions

Ingredients

1 lb frozen pearl onions (no need to thaw)

1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky kick)

Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Toss: In a bowl, combine pearl onions, oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Air fry: Spread onions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until deeply golden.
Serve: Garnish with herbs if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips for the Best Results

Want to level up your onions? Try these tricks:

Double the batch: They disappear fast! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Add a drizzle: Finish with balsamic glaze or honey for extra sweetness.
Mix flavors: Toss in rosemary or a pinch of cayenne for variety.

Pro tip: If using fresh pearl onions, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds to make peeling easier. Check out my guide to air fryer vegetables for more inspiration!

Ways to Serve Air Fried Pearl Onions

These little gems shine in so many dishes:

Scattered over creamy mashed potatoes for texture.

Mixed into grain bowls with roasted veggies and tahini.
As a topping for steak or pork chops (trust me, it’s a game-changer).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pearl onions instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Blanch them first to loosen the skins, then pat dry before air frying.

How do I prevent the onions from sticking to the basket?
Lightly coat the basket with oil or use parchment paper designed for air fryers.

What’s the best air fryer temperature for pearl onions?
400°F ensures crispy edges without burning. Adjust time based on your air fryer model.

Can I make these oil-free?
Yes, though they’ll be less crispy. Try spritzing with broth instead.

Are pearl onions the same as shallots?
No—pearl onions are smaller and sweeter. Learn more about onion varieties from Bon Appétit.

Can I freeze air fried pearl onions?
Yes! Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer.

There you have it—a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a savory snack, these air fried pearl onions are your new secret weapon. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll be sneaking a few (or ten) straight from the basket. For more air fryer magic, try my crispy Brussels sprouts next. Happy cooking!