Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion: A Crispy Delight
The Outback Bloomin Onion is a stunning appetizer that looks like a golden flower. Chefs cut a big onion into about 200 petals. They coat each slice and fry it until it’s crispy and golden.
Its size and smell make it perfect for sharing. Friends and families gather to dip into the center together. This makes the famous bloomin onion a favorite starter at Outback Steakhouse in the U.S.
It’s a hit: about one in four appetizers ordered is a bloomin onion. Millions have been enjoyed. A whole bloom has about 1,950 calories, and Outback keeps its secret seasoning mix to itself.
For years, people have tried to make their own bloomin onion at home. Recipes use garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, black pepper, and a creamy chili-style sauce. This article will guide you on making your own bloomin onion. You can choose between the one at Outback or the one you make at home.
What is the Bloomin’ Onion and why it’s iconic
The Bloomin’ Onion is a big yellow onion cut into many petal-like segments. It’s battered and deep-fried until golden. When it comes to the table, it looks like edible fireworks, waiting to be enjoyed.
Origin and popularity
The Bloomin’ Onion started as a simple appetizer in the late 20th century. Outback Steakhouse made it famous, and soon it was everywhere. It became a hit, with millions sold, making it a pop-culture icon.
Why diners love it
People love the Bloomin’ Onion for many reasons. It’s a showstopper that everyone wants to try. The mix of crunchy outside and soft inside is delicious. Plus, the tangy dipping sauce adds a special touch.
It’s both fun and comforting. Friends love sharing it, and home cooks enjoy making it. Its appeal lies in its taste, presentation, and ease of making.
outback steakhouse bloomin onion
The Bloomin’ Onion is a showstopper at Outback Steakhouse. It’s a large sweet onion, opened into petals, with a golden crust. It comes with a side of creamy dipping sauce.
The official Outback presentation
Outback makes the Bloomin’ Onion from a whole onion. They cut it into petals by hand or machine. Then, they double-dip it in egg wash and flour before frying it until golden.
They serve it hot with creamy sauce on the side. This way, you can dip each petal as you enjoy it.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion (Signature) | Large sweet onion cut into petals, double-dipped, deep-fried; served with creamy chili-style sauce | 1,954 | $12.99 |
| Bloomin’ Onion (Half) | Smaller portion of the signature appetizer for sharing | 980 | $8.99 |
| Onion Petal Combo | Bloomin’ Onion petals paired with a side salad or fries | 1,200 | $14.49 |
| Copycat Plate | Restaurant-style fried onion with house dipping sauce | 1,100 | $11.50 |
Sales and cultural impact
Between 2012 and 2015, Outback sold about 40 million Bloomin’ Onions. This shows how popular it is. It’s a big hit on the menu, making up a quarter of appetizer orders.
The Bloomin’ Onion has become a part of pop culture and food media. It’s often mentioned in copycat recipes and restaurant reviews. This keeps Outback relevant for those looking for a memorable starter.
Ingredients that make the Outback Bloomin Onion stand out
The Outback Bloomin Onion is special because of a few key choices. Pick the right onion, mix seasonings well, and use a coating that gets crispy but doesn’t burn. These choices affect the onion’s texture, taste, and how it fries.
Choosing the right onion is critical. Chefs and tests suggest using large sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. These onions are big enough to make 16 or more petals and have a mild taste that contrasts with the spicy dip.
Size is important for frying. A big onion fries more evenly and stays together when cut. Smaller onions, like yellow ones, can taste harsh after frying because they release more sulfur.
Choosing the right onion
Look for a firm, dry onion with a papery skin and no soft spots. Aim for a diameter of 4.5–5 inches for the best petal formation. Sweet onions add a natural sweetness that goes well with the bold seasonings in an Outback Bloomin Onion.
Seasoning and coating components
The main ingredients in most bloomin onion recipes include all-purpose flour and a mix of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Cornstarch is often added to increase crunchiness.
An egg wash helps the seasoned flour stick. A simple egg and water mix is suggested for the right crispiness without adding richness.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vidalia Onion | Large sweet onion, mild flavor, ideal for 16+ petals | 60 per 100g | $1.50 each |
| All-Purpose Flour | Main coating, creates golden crust when seasoned | 364 per 100g | $0.40 per cup |
| Cornstarch | Optional for extra crispiness when blended with flour | 381 per 100g | $0.30 per 1/2 cup |
| Paprika | Adds color and sweet-smoky flavor to the mix | 282 per 100g | $0.10 per tsp |
| Garlic Powder | Provides savory depth to the seasoned flour | 331 per 100g | $0.08 per tsp |
| Cayenne Pepper | Gives heat; adjust to taste for desired spice level | 318 per 100g | $0.07 per tsp |
| Dried Thyme | Earthy herb note found in many copycat blends | 276 per 100g | $0.05 per tsp |
| Egg + Water Wash | Helps coating adhere; lighter than milk-based wash | 72 per large egg | $0.20 per egg |
| Canola or Peanut Oil | Neutral frying oil with high smoke point for even browning | 884 per 100g | $0.60 per cup |
| Beer (optional) | Used in some batter variants for lift and flavor | 43 per 100ml (lager) | $0.75 per 8 oz |
Getting the right mix is key. Most recipes use about 3–3.5 cups of flour for coating. Add cornstarch carefully. The common ingredients in all tested recipes are a sweet onion, seasoned flour, egg wash, and neutral oil.
How the Bloomin’ Onion is cut and prepared
The Bloomin’ Onion starts with precise cuts and steady hands. This guide shows you how to do it in simple steps. It also compares professional tools with home methods, so you can pick what works best for you.
Knife technique for an even bloom
Start by trimming 1/4 inch from the onion’s top and peeling the outer skin. Keep the root on to hold the petals together while cutting and frying.
Place the root toward you. Cut four main cuts from the root toward the cutting board, stopping 1/2 inch from the root. This creates four large sections without separating them.
Then, cut three more cuts between each quarter to get 16 slices. Use a sharp chef’s knife and steady pressure to avoid tearing the petals. Remove the small inner core bits so oil can reach the base.
If the bloom doesn’t open fully, soak the cut onion in ice water for 10–20 minutes. Practice makes perfect; learning to cut a Bloomin’ Onion by hand takes time but leads to consistent petals.
Commercial vs. home preparation
Commercial kitchens focus on speed and uniformity. They use a commercial Bloomin Onion cutter for consistent slices. Many restaurants pair cutters with high-volume fryers for repeatable battering and frying results.
Outback Steakhouse locations often use a dedicated cutter for standard portion sizes and presentation. Home cooks can achieve similar results with a sharp chef’s knife and a two-stage batter technique, though petal loss is more likely at first.
When choosing equipment, note that a commercial Bloomin Onion cutter costs several hundred dollars and is designed for frequent use. At home, focus on knife maintenance, steady cuts, and safe hot-oil handling for the best results.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outback Bloomin’ Onion (restaurant) | Large battered and deep-fried onion served with signature sauce | 1,500 kcal (approx.) | $12.99 (menu price varies) |
| Home-style Bloomin’ Onion | Hand-cut onion, two-stage coating, deep-fried in small batch | 1,200 kcal (approx.) | $6.50 (ingredient cost) |
| Commercial Bloomin Onion Cutter | Stainless steel cutter for uniform 16-petal slices | 0 kcal | $465.00 (retail estimate) |
| Chef’s Knife (8″) | Essential for precise hand cuts and blade control | 0 kcal | $40.00–$200.00 |
| Two-stage Batter Kit | Wet mix and dry flour blend to mimic restaurant coating | Varies | $8.00 (per batch) |
| Commercial Fryer (Countertop) | Maintains stable oil temperature for consistent frying | 0 kcal | $300.00–$1,200.00 |
| Ice Water Soak | Technique to help petals open fully before battering | 0 kcal | $0.00 |
| Kitchen Thermometer | Ensures correct oil temperature for crisping | 0 kcal | $10.00–$40.00 |
| Paper Towels & Rack | Drain excess oil and keep edges crisp | 0 kcal | $3.00 |
| Signature Dipping Sauce | Spicy, creamy sauce that complements the onion | 90 kcal (per 2 tbsp) | $1.00 (per serving) |
bloomin onion recipe for making it at home
This bloomin onion recipe is easy to follow. It has a clear wet-then-dry coating and a simple frying method. You’ll need fresh yellow or sweet onions and a clean workspace.
Two-part coating method
Begin with a wet mix of beaten egg and water. Don’t use milk. The egg wash helps the dry mix stick to the onion petals, making the coating thick and crispy.
The dry mix includes all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, cayenne, thyme, black pepper, and cornstarch for extra crunch.
To make a copycat bloomin onion, follow these steps: dunk the onion in egg wash, then coat with flour mix. Repeat the egg wash and flour step for a thick, restaurant-style crust.
Step-by-step frying process
Heat a large Dutch oven with about 3 inches of neutral oil like canola or peanut to 400°F. Then, lower the onion so the oil drops to about 350°F when the bloom goes in.
- Trim and cut the onion into petals, keeping the root intact to hold the bloom.
- Dunk the onion in egg wash, making sure wash reaches between the petals.
- Transfer to the seasoned flour and press flour into each petal.
- Repeat egg wash and flour for a second coating to achieve a true bloomin onion recipe texture.
- Carefully lower the bloom into oil with petals down. Fry 2–3 minutes, then flip so petals face up and fry another 2–3 minutes.
- Remove when deep golden and tender. Drain briefly on paper towels and serve immediately with your preferred sauce.
Use a spider strainer or long tongs when handling the onion. Do not overcrowd the pot. Keep a thermometer in the oil and adjust heat to hold near 350°F during frying. These tips improve results when learning how to make bloomin onion at home.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin Onion (homestyle) | Thick double-coated onion fried until deep golden | 1,200 kcal | $6.50 | |
| Single-Coat Bloom | One wet-dry pass for lighter crisp | 900 kcal | $5.00 | |
| Air-Fried Bloom | Oven or air fryer method with less oil | 650 kcal | $7.00 | |
| Small Bloom (starter) | Smaller onion, same double coating | 700 kcal | $4.00 | |
| Vegetable Oil (3 in pot) | Canola or peanut for neutral frying | Depends on absorption | $3.50 (per batch) | |
| Egg Wash (per onion) | Egg and water beaten for adhesion | 90 kcal | $0.40 | |
| Seasoned Flour Mix | Garlic, paprika, thyme, cayenne, cornstarch | Variable | $1.00 (per batch) | |
| Copycat Dipping Sauce | Tangy mayonnaise-based sauce with spices | 120 kcal (per 2 tbsp) | $0.75 (per serving) | |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
| Bloomin Onion (homestyle) | No | No | No (use GF flour) | Eggs, possible cross-contact with peanut oil |
| Single-Coat Bloom | No | No | Yes with GF flour | Eggs |
| Air-Fried Bloom | No | No | Yes with GF flour | Eggs |
| Vegan Bloom (swap) | Yes | No | Yes with GF flour | Possible soy in egg replacer |
| Copycat Dipping Sauce | No | No | Yes if mayo is GF | Eggs, possible dairy in variations |
| Seasoned Flour Mix | Yes | No | Yes if GF flour used | None inherent; check cross-contact |
| Cornstarch Crisp Add | Yes | No | Yes | None |
| Peanut Oil Frying | Yes | Yes | Yes | Peanuts |
| Canola Oil Frying | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
- Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F during frying.
- Work gently between petals so coatings stay intact.
- Serve the finished onion hot for best texture and flavor.
This guide shows you how to make a bloomin onion at home. It uses a two-part coating and a step-by-step frying method. This approach makes a crispy, restaurant-style onion.
Outback Bloomin Onion sauce and dipping options
The Bloomin’ Onion is best with a tangy, creamy sauce. This guide covers classic recipes, serving tips, and storage. Enjoy the crispiest bloom and the perfect balance of heat and creaminess at home.
Classic copycat dipping sauce
A reliable copycat sauce mixes mayonnaise, ketchup, cream-style horseradish, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use cream-style horseradish for a milder taste. Some add sour cream or milk for extra creaminess.
Mix the ingredients and chill them for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend and softens the horseradish. For the sauce, use about one cup of mayo, two tablespoons of ketchup, one tablespoon of cream-style horseradish, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Serving and storage tips
Serve the bloom hot with the sauce in small bowls. This way, everyone can share. Leftover sauce is great for sandwiches or fries.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Bloomin’ Onion | Large fried sweet onion with seasoned batter and signature bloom cut | 1,500 kcal (plate) | $9.99 | |
| Half Bloom | Smaller portion for sharing or lighter appetite | 750 kcal | $6.49 | |
| Copycat Sauce Cup | Individual serving of creamy, tangy dipping sauce | 120 kcal | $0.99 | |
| Extra Sauce Jar (8 oz) | Refrigerate-ready jar of signature-style sauce | 960 kcal (jar) | $4.99 | |
| Panko-Crisp Bloom | Alternate coating with panko crumbs for extra crunch | 1,400 kcal | $10.49 | |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
| Classic Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Dairy (batter), Wheat |
| Half Bloom | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Copycat Sauce | No (traditional mayo) | No | Yes (if made with gluten-free seasonings) | Eggs, Possible Dairy if sour cream added |
| Vegan Sauce Variant | Yes | No | Yes | May contain soy |
| Gluten-Free Bloom | No | No | Yes (with gluten-free flour) | Dairy |
| Panko-Crisp Bloom | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy |
| Low-Fat Sauce | No | No | Yes | Eggs, Possible Dairy |
| Extra Sauce Jar (8 oz) | No | No | Yes | Eggs |
Store unused sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 14 days. Check for smell, color, or texture changes before using. Fried onion is best eaten immediately; reheating in a hot oven can help but won’t fully restore crispness.
- For best results, make the sauce a day ahead and chill it.
- Offer multiple small dipping bowls so guests can sample and share.
- To reduce sogginess, place the bloom on a rack briefly after frying before plating.
If you want to make bloomin onion sauce from scratch, start with a mayo-ketchup-horseradish base. Adjust paprika and salt to taste. Small tweaks can tailor the heat and brightness to your guests’ preferences.
Nutrition and bloomin onion calories
The Bloomin’ Onion is a tasty, shareable treat. This section breaks down calories, fat, and simple swaps for fewer calories. It focuses on portion control and smart ingredient choices for everyday meals.
Calorie considerations
Outback Steakhouse lists the appetizer at about 1,950 calories for the whole dish. When split among six people, that works out to roughly 325 calories per person. The deep-fry method and flour-based batter drive up fat and carbohydrate totals.
The dipping sauce adds concentrated calories and fat. Looking at Outback bloomin onion nutrition helps set expectations when ordering or sharing at the table.
Healthier swaps and portion control
Air-frying or baking creates a crisp coating with less oil and delivers texture. Using almond or coconut flour cuts carbs for a lower-carb variant. Making smaller blossoms limits single-serving calories without losing presentation.
A reduced-fat or yogurt-based dipping sauce reduces added calories from the side. Sharing across more people or treating the appetizer as an occasional indulgence keeps weekly calories in balance.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Bloomin’ Onion (Outback) | Signature deep-fried onion with seasoned batter | 1,950 | $12.99 | |
| Shared Portion (per 6) | Approximate per-person share | 325 | $2.17 | |
| Air-Fried Bloom (homemade) | Smaller onion, panko or gluten-free crumb | 550 | $6.50 | |
| Baked Bloom (low-fat) | Light spray oil, seasoned flour substitute | 480 | $5.75 | |
| Yogurt Dip (per 2 oz) | Greek yogurt base with spices | 50 | $0.75 | |
| Traditional Sauce (2 oz) | Creamy, mayo-based dipping sauce | 200 | $0.75 | |
| Almond Flour Bloom (small) | Low-carb coating, baked | 420 | $6.00 | |
| Mini Bloom (single serve) | Smaller onion, fried or baked | 260 | $4.50 | |
| Vegetable Platter Swap | Roasted carrots and celery as an app | 120 | $4.00 | |
| Half-Sized Order (restaurant) | Reduced portion offered by some locations | 980 | $7.50 | |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
| Whole Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Dairy (in batter), Wheat |
| Air-Fried Bloom (panko) | No | No | No | Wheat |
| Almond Flour Bloom | Possible | Yes | Yes | Nuts (almond), Egg (if used) |
| Baked Bloom (gluten-free flour) | Possible | No | Yes | Dairy (if milk in batter), Gluten-free flour used |
| Yogurt Dip | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Traditional Sauce | No | No | Yes | Egg, Dairy |
| Mini Bloom (vegetable oil) | No | No | No | Wheat |
| Vegetable Platter Swap | Yes | Yes | Yes | Depends on dressing |
| Half-Sized Order | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Almond Flour Dip | Possible | Yes | Yes | Nuts |
- Portion control tip: share with four to six people to lower per-person bloomin onion calories.
- Cooking swap: try air-fry or bake to cut oil by up to 80 percent.
- Ingredient swap: swap wheat flour for almond or coconut flour for a healthier bloomin onion alternative.
- Sauce swap: choose yogurt-based dips to trim fat and calories.
- Track per-person servings when dining out.
- Ask restaurants about half-sized orders or shareable plates.
- Balance indulgent starters with a lean main for the meal.
These tips use Outback bloomin onion nutrition as a benchmark while providing practical swaps for a healthier bloomin onion. They help you enjoy the crunchy, savory appeal without losing flavor.
Tips to get the best bloomin onion at restaurants
When you’re out to eat, a few tips can make your bloomin onion better. Ask the staff if the onion is fresh and if it comes with sauce. Also, make sure to ask about any food allergies you might have.
Outback Steakhouse has guides for allergens and nutrition. But, they don’t share their secret spice mix. To get the onion crispy, order it as soon as you sit down.
Sharing the onion is a good idea. It keeps the portions right and makes it a fun starter. Don’t ask the kitchen to wait with the onion, as it will lose its crispiness.
Ordering advice
Ask if the onion is made fresh and if it comes with sauce. If you have dietary needs, ask about allergens and ingredients. For the best texture, ask for it to be served right away and eat it quickly.
During busy times, the onion might take a bit longer. Be kind and flexible. The staff can suggest the best time to order for crispiness.
Pairing suggestions
Choose a drink that cuts through the onion’s richness. Try iced tea, a crisp lager, or a citrusy cocktail. For a full meal, pair it with a lean steak or a fresh salad.
For groups, add pickled veggies or a simple vinaigrette salad. These options enhance the bloomin onion’s flavor and refresh your palate.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion (Outback style) | Large breaded onion served with signature dipping sauce | 1,950 | $8.99 |
| Half Bloomin Onion | Smaller portion for sharing or lighter appetite | 975 | $5.50 |
| Bloomin Onion with Side Salad | Served with mixed greens and vinaigrette to balance richness | 1,050 | $11.50 |
| Bloomin Onion and Steak Combo | Pairing of bloomin onion and a lean sirloin for meal balance | 2,200 | $17.99 |
| Bloomin Onion Platter (Family) | Large platter for groups with extra dipping sauce | 3,800 | $22.00 |
| Bloomin Onion with Iced Tea | Classic beverage pairing to cut through the fried coating | 1,980 | $10.50 |
| Bloomin Onion and Lager | Small-batch lager pairing recommended for crisp finish | 2,050 | $12.00 |
| Bloomin Onion Snack Plate | Smaller pieces with extra veggies for lighter sharing | 650 | $6.99 |
| Bloomin Onion with Citrus Salad | Salad of arugula, orange, and fennel to brighten flavors | 1,100 | $13.25 |
| Bloomin Onion Sampler | Three dipping sauces to explore contrasts | 1,970 | $9.75 |
- Order promptly to preserve crunch.
- Confirm sauce inclusion when ordering bloomin onion.
- Pair with acidic or crisp drinks for best bloomin onion pairing.
How to replicate the Outback experience at home
Creating the Outback vibe is easy with simple choices. Choose a crisp bloom, warm dipping sauce, and share plating. Follow these steps to bring the Outback home, focusing on safety and presentation.
Equipment and safety
To make a bloomin onion at home, you need the right tools. Start with a sharp chef’s knife for clean petals. Use a large Dutch oven or a countertop deep fryer for steady heat.
Choose a neutral oil like canola or peanut for frying. A spider strainer or long-handled tongs help lift the bloom safely. Include a candy or fryer thermometer to monitor oil temperature and paper towels to drain excess oil.
Never overfill the pot with oil. Keep the oil steady at about 350°F while frying. Lower food slowly to prevent splatter. Keep a lid nearby and a Class K or grease-rated extinguisher accessible for emergencies.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chef’s Knife (8″) | Sharp blade for slicing onion petals evenly | 0 | $35–$120 |
| Large Dutch Oven | Heavy pot for stable oil temperature | 0 | $40–$200 |
| Deep Fryer | Electric fryer with temp control for consistent results | 0 | $50–$250 |
| Neutral Frying Oil (per cup) | Canola or peanut oil for high smoke point | 1,920 (per cup) | $0.50–$1.50 |
| Spider Strainer | Wide mesh tool to lift fried items safely | 0 | $8–$25 |
| Long-handled Tongs | Grip and turn petals without splashing | 0 | $6–$30 |
| Candy/Fryer Thermometer | Ensures oil stays at 350°F for crisping | 0 | $8–$25 |
| Paper Towels | Drain excess oil after frying | 0 | $2–$8 |
| Small Ramekins | Serve dipping sauce in the center or side | 0 | $6–$20 (set) |
| Fire Extinguisher (Grease-rated) | Essential safety item for frying | 0 | $40–$120 |
Presentation and serving
Plate the bloom on a wide platter with dipping sauce in the center or in small ramekins. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color. Offer napkins and small forks or toothpicks for guests to enjoy without mess.
To make it feel like a restaurant event, serve family-style and invite guests to share. Add sides like celery, carrot sticks, or a crisp salad for balance. This communal setup makes the Outback experience at home relaxed and fun.
Comparing copycat recipes and variations
Many home cooks and chefs try different ways to get the perfect crunch and taste. This guide will show you the main methods, creative ideas, and healthy swaps for making a tasty Outback Bloomin’ Onion at home.
Most recipes start with a big sweet onion. Then, they use a mix of wet and dry coatings. Deep-frying at the right temperature is key. Changing the batter or frying time can make big differences.
Popular copycat approaches
Many people use a wet wash of egg and water, followed by a seasoned flour mix. This mix often includes paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, and black pepper. Some add cornstarch for extra crispiness or use milk for a richer wash.
Beer batter is used in lighter versions, while panko adds extra texture. These small changes can make a big difference in taste and texture.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic copycat bloomin onion | Sweet onion, egg wash, seasoned flour, deep-fried | 1700 per onion | $6.50 (home estimate) |
| Cornstarch crunch | Flour mixed with cornstarch for extra crisp | 1650 per onion | $7.00 (home estimate) |
| Beer-battered bloom | Light beer in batter for airy texture | 1600 per onion | $7.50 (home estimate) |
| Panko-coated bloom | Panko added to outer layer for crunch | 1680 per onion | $7.25 (home estimate) |
| Milk-wash variant | Milk in egg wash for richer coating | 1720 per onion | $6.75 (home estimate) |
| Air-fry adaptation | Baked or air-fried for lower oil content | 900 per onion | $6.00 (home estimate) |
| Gluten-free version | Gluten-free flour blends or rice flour | 1500 per onion | $8.00 (home estimate) |
| Spicy chipotle twist | Chipotle and smoked paprika in coating | 1710 per onion | $7.00 (home estimate) |
| Vegetable alternative | Cauliflower or zucchini shaped like a bloom | 650 per portion | $5.50 (home estimate) |
| Chef-style panko + spice | Panko, herbs, and citrus zest for brightness | 1690 per onion | $8.50 (home estimate) |
Regional and creative twists
Cooks in different places add their own twist to the recipe. Southerners might add more cayenne for spice. On the West Coast, they might use lighter batters or air-fry to use less oil.
For those who don’t eat meat, cauliflower, zucchini, or mushrooms can be used instead of onions. Websites like Pinterest and forums are full of creative Bloomin’ Onion recipes for all kinds of diets.
Start by making small changes, like adding cornstarch or using panko. Each change affects the texture and taste. Keep trying until you get the flavor you want.
- Use a large, firm sweet onion for a reliable core.
- Keep frying oil between 350°F and 375°F for even cook.
- Test cornstarch at 1:3 ratio with flour for crisp gains.
- Air-fry at high heat with a light spray for lower oil.
This guide helps you choose the right Bloomin’ Onion recipe for your kitchen. Try a new version, make a small change, and see how it affects the taste and texture.
Where to find Outback Bloomin’ Onion and menu context
Finding a Bloomin’ Onion is easy if you know where to look. Use Outback Steakhouse’s location tools or major maps to find the nearest spot. Outback has many places across the U.S., so menu items can change by location and time.
Here’s a quick look at common appetizers and what you can expect. This helps you see where the Bloomin’ Onion fits on the menu and how it compares to other starters.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | Hand-battered, deep-fried onion served with signature dipping sauce | 1,950 | $12.99 |
| Aussie Cheese Fries | Seasoned fries topped with cheese and bacon, served with ranch | 1,200 | $8.49 |
| Seared Ahi Tuna | Sliced rare tuna with sesame seeds and ginger soy sauce | 380 | $11.99 |
| Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie | Shrimp skewers with garlic herb butter | 420 | $10.99 |
| Sydney ‘Shrooms | Battered and fried mushrooms with ranch-style dip | 560 | $7.99 |
| Classic Wings | Spicy wings with celery and blue cheese | 820 | $9.49 |
| Crab Cakes | Pan-seared crab cakes with remoulade | 470 | $12.49 |
| House Salad | Mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and choice of dressing | 210 | $4.99 |
| Bloom Petals (smaller) | Shareable portion of Bloomin’ Onion petals for lighter appetite | 980 | $7.99 |
| Sampler Trio | Combination of three small appetizers for tasting | 1,100 | $13.99 |
Check the menu guide and allergen notices at most places. The Bloomin’ Onion is a signature appetizer. Outback keeps its seasoning secret, and onions are either hand-cut or mechanically prepared.
Seasonal changes and promotions can impact what’s available. If you want a specific item, call ahead. To find Outback Steakhouse fast, search with your city name or use location services on your device.
- Use the restaurant finder or map apps to locate Outback Steakhouse near you.
- Check the outback steakhouse menu online or ask staff about current appetizers.
- Confirm preparation style if you have dietary needs or prefer hand-cut versus machine-cut.
For those seeking the classic Bloomin’ Onion, many places offer it. Availability can vary, so a quick call ensures you get the crunchy appetizer you’re looking for.
Conclusion
The outback bloomin onion is a stunning, shareable starter. It combines sweet onion flavor with a crunchy, seasoned crust. A large sweet onion, like a Vidalia, is coated twice in seasoned flour and fried until golden. It’s served with a creamy chili-style dipping sauce that adds to the delight.
For the best bloomin onion, head to an Outback Steakhouse. They offer consistent quality and timing. To make it at home, coat the onion in two stages and fry it carefully. Prepare the sauce ahead to let the flavors mix. Using the right onion and frying technique will get you close to the restaurant taste.
Enjoy this appetizer as a special treat and share it with friends. Follow the safety tips and serving advice in this article. Whether you go to the restaurant or make it at home, the outback bloomin onion is sure to impress.
FAQ
What exactly is the Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion?
The Bloomin’ Onion is a large sweet onion cut into many petals. It has about 16 major slices, often described as creating up to ~200 petals. It’s double-dipped in an egg-and-water wash and seasoned flour, then deep-fried to a golden, crispy finish. It’s served with a creamy chili-style dipping sauce. It’s a signature, shareable steakhouse appetizer popular at Outback Steakhouse.
How many calories are in a whole Bloomin’ Onion?
Outback’s official nutrition information lists the whole Bloomin’ Onion at roughly 1,950 calories. If shared among several people—for example, six—the per-person portion is about 325 calories. But exact values vary with preparation and sauce portion.
Can I make the Bloomin’ Onion at home and is there a reliable copycat recipe?
Yes. Home cooks often recreate it with a large sweet onion (Vidalia or Walla Walla). They use a two-stage wet (egg + water) and dry (seasoned flour, sometimes with cornstarch) coating. Deep-frying at controlled temperatures is key. Many tested copycat recipes exist online; while Outback’s exact spice blend is proprietary, common seasonings include garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
What knife technique produces an even bloom without tearing the onion?
Trim a small slice from the top, remove outer skin, place the root toward you and cut four main wedges from root to near the base. Then make three additional cuts between each quarter to total 16 slices. Use a very sharp chef’s knife, keep cuts even, and soak in ice water briefly if the bloom won’t open fully.
Is the Bloomin’ Onion gluten-free or keto-friendly?
The classic Bloomin’ Onion is not gluten-free or keto-friendly due to the seasoned flour coating and deep-frying. Some restaurants or home cooks make gluten-free versions using alternative flours (rice, GF blends) or lower-carb variants with almond/coconut flour and air-frying. But these are not the traditional preparation.
What is in the classic Bloomin’ Onion dipping sauce?
The common copycat dipping sauce blends mayonnaise, ketchup, cream-style horseradish (or prepared horseradish), paprika, salt, and black pepper. Some variations add a touch of sour cream or milk. Chilling the sauce at least 30 minutes helps flavors meld.
How does Outback prepare Bloomin’ Onions consistently in restaurants?
Many Outback kitchens use a commercial cutting machine to produce uniform blooms. Trained cooks double-dip and deep-fry at controlled temperatures. High-volume frying equipment and standardized procedures help maintain consistent coating, color, and crispness.
What are safer or lower-fat alternatives to deep-frying a Bloomin’ Onion?
To cut fat and calories, try air-frying or oven-baking with a crisp coating. Use a cornstarch-and-flour mix for a lighter crust, or make smaller individual blossoms. Swapping the sauce for a yogurt-based dip also reduces calorie density.
Where can I find an Outback Steakhouse that serves the Bloomin’ Onion?
Use Outback Steakhouse’s location finder on their website or popular map services to locate nearby restaurants. The Bloomin’ Onion is typically listed as a signature appetizer. Though availability can vary by location and time.
