Make the Legendary Bloomin’ Onion at Home
Recreate the crowd-pleasing classic appetizer from Outback Steakhouse in your own kitchen. This crispy, golden-brown Bloomin’ Onion is as fun to make as it is to eat. A single large onion is artfully sliced to resemble a blooming flower, coated in a flavorful seasoned batter, and deep-fried to perfection. Served with a creamy, spicy dipping sauce, it’s sure to wow any guest at your next gathering.
Ingredients
For the Onion
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Large sweet onion (Vidalia recommended) | 1 |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Paprika | 1 tbsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Whole milk | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
For the Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp |
| Prepared horseradish | 1 tbsp |
| Paprika | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ tsp |
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Onion
Peel the onion and cut off the top (non-root) end. Set the onion root-side down. Carefully slice from the top down toward the root—making 16 to 20 evenly spaced cuts—but be sure to stop about ½ inch before reaching the bottom. Gently separate the layers to open the “petals” of your blooming onion.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
In one large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the milk until smooth—this will be your wet batter.
3. Coat the Onion
Start by dipping the onion into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure each petal is evenly coated. Shake off any excess. Next, immerse the onion in the egg mixture, coating thoroughly. Return it once more to the flour mixture for a final coat. Be gentle, but make sure every crevice is covered.
4. Fry Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C). There should be enough oil to fully submerge the onion. Carefully lower the onion into the oil, root-side up. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp all over. Remove with a slotted spoon and set on paper towels to drain.
5. Make the Signature Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Mix well until creamy and uniform. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Place the hot, crispy Bloomin’ Onion on a serving plate and spoon the dipping sauce into a small bowl for the center or serve it on the side. Enjoy while hot!
Pro Tips
- Use a sharp knife for cleaner onion cuts.
- If you want extra crispy petals, double dip: egg → flour → egg → flour.
- Want it spicier? Add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the batter.
This homemade Bloomin’ Onion is a show-stopping snack that’s perfect for game day, parties, or when you’re simply in the mood for something indulgently delicious.
