Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion Recipe

 

Recreate the iconic, crispy, and flavorful appetizer right in your own kitchen. This show-stopping Bloomin' Onion features a golden, spiced crust and a zesty dipping sauce that's perfect for game days, parties, or any time you're craving a truly impressive snack.

Ingredients

For the Bloomin' Onion:

• 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or Spanish are ideal)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

Part 1: Prepare the Onion

1. Cut the Onion: Peel the onion. Slice about ½ inch off the top (the pointy, non-root end). Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board with the root end facing up.

2. Make the Cuts: Starting about ½ inch from the root, make a downward cut all the way to the board. Repeat this at ½-inch intervals all the way around the onion, creating 16-20 sections. Crucially, do not cut through the root, as it holds the onion together.

3. "Bloom" the Onion: Gently turn the onion over and use your fingers to carefully separate the outer "petals." The center will remain tight.

Part 2: Create the Coating & Batter

1. Seasoned Flour: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

2. Wet Batter: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until smooth and fully combined.

Part 3: Coat the Onion

1. First Coating: Place the prepared onion in the bowl of seasoned flour. Use your hands to sprinkle and press the flour mixture onto and between every petal, ensuring it's thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess.

2. Wet Dip: Submerge the floured onion into the egg-milk batter, making sure it gets into all the crevices. Let the excess drip off.

3. Second Coating: Place the onion back into the seasoned flour for its final coating. Once again, be meticulous, pressing the flour onto every petal to create a complete crust.

Part 4: Fry to Perfection

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy, deep pot, heat 3-4 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

2. Fry: Using a slotted spoon or spider, carefully lower the onion into the hot oil, root-side up. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the petals are golden brown, crispy, and tender.

3. Drain: Carefully remove the onion from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Part 5: Make the Sauce & Serve

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: While the onion is frying, whisk together all the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.

2. Serve: Place the hot, crispy Bloomin' Onion on a serving plate. Pour the dipping sauce into a small bowl and place it in the center of the onion. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Onion: For easier and safer cutting, chill the onion in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before you start. This firms it up.

• Double-Coating is Key: Don't rush the coating process. The double layer of flour-batter-flour is what creates the signature thick, crispy crust.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: The oil temperature will drop when you add the onion. Adjust the heat as needed to keep it as close to 375°F as possible. If the oil is too cool, the onion will become greasy.

• Baking Option: For a lighter version, place the coated onion on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Generously spray with cooking oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make it ahead of time? It's best served fresh. You can prepare the onion through the final coating and keep it refrigerated for an hour or two before frying.

• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to re-crisp. A microwave will make it soft.

• Can I make it gluten-free? Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.