Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion

Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion Recipe 

The Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion is an iconic appetizer loved for its crispy, seasoned layers and savory dipping sauce. This homemade version brings the same flavor-packed experience right to your kitchen! Imagine a perfectly seasoned onion, deep-fried to golden perfection, and served with a creamy, zesty dipping sauce. It’s a show-stopping appetizer for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 

 Restaurant-Quality Taste – Make the famous Bloomin’ Onion at home.
 Crispy and Flavorful – Lightly battered and fried to perfection.
 Perfect for Sharing – A fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer or party treat.
 Dipping Sauce Included – Don’t forget that tangy sauce that brings it all together!

Ingredients 

For the Onion:

• 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or similar variety) 
• 2 cups buttermilk 
• 1 large egg 
• 2 cups all-purpose flour 
• 1 tablespoon paprika 
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper  (optional for added heat)
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) 
• Vegetable oil for frying 

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise 
• 1 tablespoon ketchup 
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 
• 1 tablespoon horseradish (optional for extra spice) 
• 1 teaspoon paprika 
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 

Instructions 

Step 1: Prepare the Onion 

1. Cut the Onion: Peel the onion and slice about 1 inch off the top, leaving the root intact. Turn the onion so the root is facing down. Using a sharp knife, cut 4-6 vertical slices around the onion, but be careful not to cut through the root. Then, carefully separate the layers, forming the “bloom” shape.
2. Soak the Onion: Place the onion in a bowl of buttermilk and let it soak for 1 hour. This helps to tenderize the onion and allow the batter to stick better.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter and Dipping Sauce 

1. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve.
2. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs (preferably panko for a crunchier texture).

Step 3: Coat the Onion 

1. After the onion has soaked in the buttermilk, carefully lift it out and allow any excess liquid to drip off.
2. Gently dip the onion into the flour mixture, making sure all the layers are coated. Use your fingers to get the flour between the layers of the onion.
3. After coating with the flour mixture, dip the onion back into the buttermilk for a second coat. Then, coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they stick.

Step 4: Fry the Onion 

1. Heat a large pot or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry but not smoking.
2. Carefully lower the coated onion into the hot oil, root side down. Fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The onion will “bloom” as it fries!
3. Once cooked, remove the onion from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! 

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1. Place the bloomin’ onion on a large serving plate with the root facing down.
2. Serve immediately with your homemade dipping sauce on the side for dipping and drizzling!

Serving Suggestions 

• Pair with a cold drink: Serve with a refreshing iced tea or beer.
• Serve with fries: For the ultimate indulgent snack, add some crispy fries to the plate. 
• Great for parties: This is a fun appetizer to serve at gatherings—just make sure everyone gets a piece! 

Storage Tips 

• Store leftovers: If you have any leftover bloomin’ onion (which is rare!), store the onion in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain its crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the prepared but uncooked onion before frying. Once coated, wrap the onion tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to fry, simply thaw in the fridge for a few hours before frying.

Tips for the Perfect Bloomin’ Onion 

1. Choose a Sweet Onion: The sweet, mild flavor of Vidalia onions or similar varieties works best for this recipe, as they hold up well during frying.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Oil: Fry one onion at a time to ensure it gets crispy and cooks evenly.
3. Use Buttermilk: Soaking the onion in buttermilk before frying ensures a tender interior and helps the batter adhere.
4. Patience Is Key: Fry the onion slowly to ensure it cooks through without burning. Keep an eye on it while it fries.

Why This Recipe Works 

The Bloomin’ Onion is more than just an appetizer—it’s an experience! The onion blooms open as it fries, creating layers of crispy, seasoned batter with a tender, sweet onion center. Paired with the tangy, creamy dipping sauce, each bite is a delicious explosion of flavors and textures. The combination of the crispy breading and juicy onion is what makes this dish so irresistible.

Final Thoughts 

If you love the famous Bloomin’ Onion from Outback Steakhouse, this recipe will give you that same satisfying crunch and flavor right at home! Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving something fun, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Are you ready to make this show-stopping appetizer? Let me know how your Bloomin’ Onion turns out or share your favorite dipping sauce recipes!