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Outback Steakhouse Bloomin' Onion

This Outback Steakhouse Bloomin' Onion recipe brings the iconic, crispy, deep-fried appetizer to your kitchen—featuring a golden battered onion “bloom” and a bold, creamy dipping sauce. Perfect for parties, game day, or a restaurant-style night in.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 610 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Bloomin’ Onion:

  • 1 large sweet onion Vidalia preferred
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Vegetable oil for deep frying canola or peanut oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • ½ tsp white vinegar optional

Instructions
 

Prepare the Onion:

  • Cut off ½ inch from the top of the onion and peel.
  • Place onion root-side down. Make 12–16 evenly spaced cuts downward, stopping ½ inch from the root.
  • Gently spread the petals and soak in ice water for 30 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

Mix the Flour Coating:

  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Make the Egg Wash:

  • In a separate bowl, whisk egg and milk until smooth.

Dredge the Onion:

  • Coat onion in the flour mixture, getting between petals.
  • Dip in egg wash to fully coat.
  • Return to flour mixture for a second coating. Press flour into petals.

Fry the Onion:

  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 375°F (190°C).
  • Carefully place onion in oil, cut-side down. Fry for 3 minutes.
  • Gently flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
  • Remove and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

  • Combine all dipping sauce ingredients in a bowl. Mix well. Chill until ready to serve.

Serve:

  • Place the bloomin’ onion on a platter, and serve with dipping sauce in the center or on the side.

Notes

  • Best Onion Choice: Sweet onions like Vidalia offer the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the onion earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to fry.
  • Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5–10 minutes for best texture.
  • Air Fryer Option: Lightly spray dredged onion with oil and cook at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Extra Crunch: Double dredging is key—don’t skip it!