Air Fried Pearl Onions are the perfect side dish that elevates any meal. These little gems are not only easy to prepare but also deliver a crispy texture that’s hard to resist. Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors without the excess oil. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will have you hooked from the first bite!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fried Pearl Onions
There are so many reasons to adore these air fried small onions. Firstly, they are incredibly versatile, serving as a delicious side dish or a gourmet addition to salads. Secondly, you can prepare them in just 30 minutes, making them a great option for busy weeknights. Additionally, air frying reduces the need for excess oil, thus making them a healthy air fried pearl onion snack.
Moreover, the flavor possibilities are endless! You can season them with various spices to create your ideal taste, whether you prefer a savory or slightly sweet profile. Lastly, these crispy air fried pearl onions are a hit at parties, offering a unique twist that guests will love. This recipe falls under the vegetarian diet category, making it suitable for everyone!

Ingredients for Air Fried Pearl Onions
Gather these items:
- 1 pound pearl onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
How to Make Air Fried Pearl Onions Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Peel the pearl onions.
- Step 3: In a bowl, toss the pearl onions with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 4: Place the onions in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Step 5: Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Step 6: Check for desired tenderness and crispness before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fried Pearl Onions
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your onions are evenly coated with oil and seasoning for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this allows for even cooking.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, try adding fresh herbs or spices.
- For a gourmet touch, serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Experiment with air fried shallots for a different taste.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fried Pearl Onions
These onions are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. You can also incorporate them into salads for a delightful crunch, making them perfect for air fried pearl onions for salads. For a unique appetizer, pair them with a dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic aioli, that complements their flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fried Pearl Onions
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through. This method ensures you maintain the crispiness! Meal prep has never been easier with this easy air fried pearl onions tutorial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fried Pearl Onions
What’s the secret to perfect Air Fried Pearl Onions?
The secret lies in the even coating of oil and seasoning. Make sure to toss the onions well to achieve that perfect crispiness. Using the best methods for air frying onions ensures you get the best flavor and texture.
Can I make Air Fried Pearl Onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge. However, for optimal crispiness, it’s best to air fry them just before serving.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fried Pearl Onions?
One common mistake is overcrowding the air fryer. This leads to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation, and enjoy perfectly cooked crisped pearl onions.
Variations of Air Fried Pearl Onions You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings! You can try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or even cayenne pepper for a kick. For a sweeter taste, consider tossing the onions with a drizzle of honey before air frying. These variations make your air frying experience even more enjoyable and can cater to different dietary preferences.
For more information on the health benefits of onions, check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about air frying techniques, visit this guide.
Lastly, if you’re interested in vegetarian recipes, explore this collection.
Print
Air Fried Pearl Onions: 5 Steps to Crispy Perfection
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and tasty recipe for air-fried pearl onions that makes a great side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pearl onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the pearl onions.
- In a bowl, toss the pearl onions with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place the onions in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for desired tenderness and crispness before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80 calories
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Air Fried Pearl Onions, Side Dish, Vegetarian