ADVERTISEMENT
The Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion is an iconic appetizer that has become a favorite in many households. Known for its crispy, flavorful petals and served with a tangy dipping sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family dinner. I remember the first time I tried the Blooming Onion at Outback Steakhouse—it was love at first bite. The combination of the crispy exterior and the tender, sweet onion inside, paired with the dipping sauce, was simply irresistible. Making this dish at home allows you to enjoy it fresh and hot right out of the fryer, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Follow this recipe to recreate the magic of the Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
1 large white onion
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1 quart vegetable oil
Chipotle, Thousand Island, or other dipping sauce (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Cut the Onion:
Cut off ½-inch from the pointy end of the onion while leaving the root end intact. This helps to hold the onion together while cooking.
Remove the papery skin from the onion.
Slice the Onion:
Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board.
Starting ¾-inch from the root, make vertical cuts downward all the way to the cutting board using a sharp knife.
Repeat the vertical cuts around the onion about 1/2-inch apart, ensuring not to overlap with previous cuts. Aim for 10-15 cuts in total.
Turn the onion over and gently use your fingers to open up the “petals” of the onion until it resembles a flower. Set the onion aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
Make the Flour Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.
Make the Egg Mixture:
In another medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 1/2 cups of milk until combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Coat the Onion
First Coating:
ADVERTISEMENT
