Description
Craving a restaurant-style appetizer that wows both in looks and flavor? This Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion is the ultimate party starter and comfort food indulgence. Featuring a massive sweet onion sliced to bloom like a flower, coated in a zesty seasoned batter, and deep-fried to crispy, golden perfection—this dish is everything you love about classic American appetizers. Whether you’re searching for a quick party snack, a fun dinner idea, or a showstopping appetizer, this homemade Bloomin’ Onion with its creamy dipping sauce checks all the boxes. It’s flavorful, crunchy, satisfying, and best of all—easy to make with basic ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Onion:
- 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia recommended)
- Ice water for soaking
- Seasoned Flour Mixture:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
Batter:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup water
- (Optional) 2 tbsp cornstarch
For Frying:
- 4–6 cups vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil preferred)
- Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Dash of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Slice and Bloom Onion: Cut ½ inch off the top, peel, and make vertical slices to create petals, keeping the root intact. Soak in ice water for 15–30 minutes.
- Mix Seasoned Flour: Combine flour and all spices in a large bowl.
- Prepare Batter: Whisk eggs, milk, water, and cornstarch in a separate bowl.
- Coat Onion: Dry onion well. Dredge in flour mix, then batter, then flour again.
- Heat Oil: Bring oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pot.
- Fry: Carefully lower onion into oil, cut-side down. Fry for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Drain and Cool: Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion, drain on a paper towel-lined rack.
- Make Dipping Sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Serve: Place onion on a plate with sauce in the center. Enjoy immediately!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes