Savor the Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion
The Outback Bloomin Onion is a signature starter that made Outback Steakhouse famous. It was introduced in 1988. This large sweet onion is cut into a flower shape, battered, and deep-fried. It turns into crispy, golden petals that are perfect for sharing.
Outback sells over eight million Bloomin’ Onions every year. It’s a favorite appetizer for casual meals and family nights. The dish has a crunchy texture and is served with creamy, spicy bloom sauce for a memorable taste.
This article will cover the Bloomin’ Onion’s history, how it’s made, its taste, nutrition, and prices. It also includes copycat recipes, menu variations, pairing tips, and how to order. Whether you want the best Bloomin’ Onion at the table or to make one at home, this guide has all the details you need.
What Is the Bloomin’ Onion and Why It Became Iconic
The Bloomin’ Onion started as a bold appetizer that changed how we view starters. It’s a large, hand-cut onion fried into a flower shape. It’s served with a tangy dipping sauce.
It debuted at Outback Steakhouse in 1988 and quickly became a signature item. The Bloomin’ Onion tied closely to the chain’s brand and promotions. It was used in the Dine Rewards program to attract new members.
The hand-cut petals make it a shareable plate that invites conversation. This visual appeal made it a social media favorite. Groups often order it as a centerpiece to share among friends and family.
Annual orders for the dish climbed into the millions, making it a big part of starter sales. Its success inspired copycats and variations across the industry. Yet, the original remained tied to Outback. It shaped dining rituals and remains a must-try item for many.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | Hand-cut, battered, deep-fried onion with signature dipping sauce | 1,950 | $11.99 |
| Mini Bloomin’ Onion | Smaller portion of the classic bloom for sharing | 1,100 | $7.99 |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | Breaded shrimp inspired by the bloom presentation | 620 | $9.49 |
| Bloomin’ Onion Loaded Fries | Fries topped with bloom pieces, cheese, and bacon | 1,340 | $8.99 |
| Bloomin’ Burger | Burger topped with bloom petals and bloom sauce | 1,120 | $13.49 |
| Bloomin’ Chicken Bites | Breaded chicken with bloom-style seasoning | 710 | $8.29 |
| Family Bloomin’ Platter | Large bloom with sides for sharing | 2,400 | $19.99 |
| Bloomin’ Onion Dip Cup | Extra signature dipping sauce | 160 | $1.99 |
| Bloomin’ Salad | Salad paired with crispy bloom pieces | 430 | $6.99 |
| Bloomin’ Combo Appetizer | Sampler with a mini bloom and two other starters | 1,370 | $12.99 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy (shared fryer may contain seafood) |
| Mini Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy (shared fryer may contain seafood) |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | No | No | No | Shellfish, Wheat, Egg, Dairy |
| Bloomin’ Onion Dip Cup | No | No | No | Dairy, Egg, Soy |
| Bloomin’ Burger | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy, Egg |
| Bloomin’ Chicken Bites | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy |
| Bloomin’ Onion Loaded Fries | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy, Pork (bacon) |
| Bloomin’ Salad | Sometimes | No | Sometimes | Dairy, Nuts (if added), Wheat (if croutons) |
| Bloomin’ Combo Appetizer | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy, Shellfish (depending on items) |
| Family Bloomin’ Platter | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy (shared fryer may contain seafood) |
outback steakhouse bloomin onion: Signature Ingredients and Preparation
The Outback Bloomin’ Onion is made with great care. Chefs choose big, sweet onions for their wide petals. This makes about 200 petal-shaped sections that cook evenly.
This detail is important when making a copycat bloomin onion at home. Or when following a trusted recipe.
Onion selection and hand-cut bloom technique
For the best taste, pick onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. They are sweet and mild. Trim the root end to keep the petals in place but leave enough base.
Use a sharp knife or a bloom cutter to make even cuts. Stop before you reach the base. Count the petals to get the right size, like Outback’s.
Even petal width is key. It makes the outside crispy and the inside tender. This is how to make a bloomin onion that tastes just right.
Seasoned batter, breading process, and frying method
The classic method uses a three-step dredge. First, dust the onion in seasoned flour. Then, dip in an egg wash to bind. Last, coat with a thicker layer of seasoned flour or breadcrumbs.
Seasoning blends include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat the oil right for frying. Fry until golden brown. This way, you get a crispy outside and a tender inside, just like Outback’s.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Bloomin’ Onion | Hand-cut sweet onion, seasoned batter, deep-fried to golden crisp | 1,500 | $9.99 |
| Mini Bloomin’ Onion | Smaller portion for sharing, same seasoning profile | 800 | $6.49 |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | Breaded shrimp with Bloomin’ seasoning, fried | 650 | $8.99 |
| Bloomin’ Wings | Chicken wings tossed in Bloomin’-style spices | 900 | $10.99 |
| Bloomin’ Loaded Fries | Fries topped with Bloomin’ sauce, cheese, and bacon | 1,100 | $7.99 |
| Bloomin’ Burger | Burger topped with crispy Bloomin’ onion petals and sauce | 1,250 | $12.49 |
| Bloomin’ Chicken Sandwich | Fried chicken with Bloomin’ seasoning and crunchy petals | 1,100 | $11.49 |
| Bite-Sized Bloomin’ Bites | Small fried onion pieces with signature spices | 420 | $5.99 |
| Bloomin’ Dipping Combo | Sampler of sauces including the classic Bloom sauce | 120 | $2.99 |
| Bloomin’ Family Pack | Two full blooms plus sides for sharing | 3,000 | $24.99 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Egg, Wheat, Dairy (cross-contact) |
| Mini Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Egg, Wheat, Dairy (cross-contact) |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | No | No | No | Shellfish, Wheat, Egg |
| Bloomin’ Wings | No | No | No | Egg, Wheat |
| Bloomin’ Loaded Fries | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Bloomin’ Burger | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy, Egg |
| Bloomin’ Chicken Sandwich | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy |
| Bite-Sized Bloomin’ Bites | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg |
| Bloomin’ Dipping Combo | No | No | Some sauces may be | Dairy, Egg, Mustard |
| Bloomin’ Family Pack | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy |
The signature bloom dipping sauce components
The dipping sauce has a creamy base with tang and a mild kick. It includes mayonnaise, ketchup or chili sauce, horseradish or hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and a splash of vinegar or lemon.
This sauce balances the fried onion’s richness. For a reliable copycat bloomin onion or a bloomin onion recipe, matching the sauce ratios is key to authentic flavor.
- Tip: Keep batter cold and oil hot to get maximum crisp.
- Tip: Rest the coated onion briefly so the coating sets before frying.
- Tip: Taste the dipping sauce and adjust acidity to balance sweetness.
Taste and Texture Profile of the Outback Bloomin’ Onion
The Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion is a feast for your senses. It starts with a crunchy bite that gives way to soft, sweet onion inside. This mix of textures makes it a standout dish.
The outside is crispy and seasoned with paprika, garlic, and black pepper. This gives it a savory flavor. It’s this flavor that makes the Outback Bloomin’ Onion a favorite.
The inside is soft and sweet, thanks to a large sweet onion. Each bite is a nice contrast to the crunchy outside. This balance makes the dish interesting.
The dipping sauce is key to the experience. It’s creamy and tangy, with a hint of heat. It makes the onion even more delicious.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | Hand-cut sweet onion, seasoned batter, deep-fried; served with signature bloom sauce | 1,950 | $11.99 |
| Mini Bloomin’ Onion | Smaller portion of the classic, ideal for two to share | 980 | $7.49 |
| Bloomin’ Loaded Fries | Fries topped with crispy onion pieces, cheese, and bloom sauce drizzle | 1,120 | $8.99 |
| Bacon & Cheese Bloom | Classic bloom with bacon bits and melted cheese | 1,250 | $12.99 |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | Tempura-style shrimp with bloom sauce | 620 | $9.49 |
| Bloomin’ Burger Add-on | One fried bloom petal served on a burger for crunch and flavor | 220 | $1.99 |
| Garden Bloom Platter | Assorted fried vegetables with bloom dipping sauce | 840 | $10.49 |
| Bloomin’ Chicken Bites | Breaded chicken pieces tossed with bloom seasoning | 740 | $9.99 |
| Bloomin’ Onion Sliders | Mini burgers topped with a crunchy bloom petal | 530 | $6.99 |
| Family Bloomin Pack | Large shareable bloom with extra sauce servings | 2,800 | $18.99 |
Nutritional Snapshot and Portion Considerations
The Outback Bloomin’ Onion is a shareable, deep-fried appetizer with bold flavor. It has a dense nutrient profile. Before ordering, many search for outback steakhouse bloomin onion and nutritional info. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide whether to share, pair, or skip this indulgence.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion (Whole) | Classic hand-cut onion, battered, deep-fried, served with bloom sauce | ≈1,500+ kcal | $10–$15 |
| Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp | Shrimp prepared with bloomin-style breading and sauce | 990 kcal | $12–$16 |
| Bloomin’ Burger | Burger topped with bloomin’ petals or sauce-inspired topping | 1,140 kcal | $11–$17 |
| Half Bloomin’ Share | Shared portion of the onion for two diners | ≈750 kcal per half | $6–$8 |
| Bloom Sauce (Side) | Signature creamy dipping sauce, mayo-based | ≈150–250 kcal per 4 oz | $1.50–$3 |
A full Bloomin’ Onion has over 1,500 calories and nearly 100 grams of fat. It also has high sodium, often exceeding daily limits. These figures come from Outback’s guidance and independent nutrition reports.
Controlling portions is key. The appetizer serves 2–4 people. Splitting it with others greatly reduces calories per person. Pairing it with grilled protein, steamed vegetables, or a salad can balance the meal.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion (Whole) | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy in sauce; shared fryer may contact shellfish |
| Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp | No | No | No | Shellfish, Wheat, Egg; shared oil cross-contact risk |
| Bloomin’ Burger | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy, Egg (bun, sauce, cheese) |
| Bloom Sauce (Side) | No | No | No | Egg, Dairy possible |
| Grilled Protein Pairing | Varies | Possible | Possible | Depends on preparation |
| Side Salad (No Croutons) | Possible | Possible | Possible | Dressing may contain Dairy or Egg |
| Steamed Vegetables | Yes | Yes | Yes | Usually none, confirm seasoning |
| French Fries | Yes* | No | No | Oil shared with other fried items; check for cross-contact |
| Modified Bloomin’ Onion (Baked) | Possible with recipe changes | Possible with low-carb swaps | Possible with gluten-free flour | Depends on substitutions |
| Individual Portion (Restaurant Request) | Varies | Varies | Varies | Ask server for real-time allergen handling |
The batter contains wheat and egg, and the sauce often uses mayonnaise or dairy. The item fries in shared oil, so cross-contact with shellfish or other allergens is possible. Those on vegan, strict gluten-free, or ketogenic plans should avoid the standard preparation unless they follow a modified bloomin onion recipe at home.
For a lighter option, try sharing, ordering a smaller portion, or pairing it with lean protein and extra greens. These simple swaps lower per-person calories and improve nutritional balance while keeping the iconic taste in your meal plan.
Pricing, Value, and Special Offers on the Outback Steakhouse Menu
The Bloomin’ Onion is a great starter to share. It usually costs between $9 and $12 in the U.S. Split among guests, it’s a good deal compared to other appetizers.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | Hand-cut large onion, seasoned breading, served with signature sauce | 2,200 | $9–$12 |
| Bloomin’ Fried Chicken | Chicken tenders with Bloomin’ seasoning and dipping sauce | 850 | $14–$18 |
| Hot Honey Shrimp | Seasoned shrimp with sweet-spicy glaze and Bloomin’ spice | 620 | $15–$20 |
| Bloomin’ Burger | Beef patty topped with Bloomin’ petals and sauce | 1,100 | $12–$16 |
| Steak & Bloomin’ Combo | Choice steak with a side Bloomin’ appetizer | 1,400 | $22–$30 |
| Shareable Sampler | Mixed appetizers including Bloomin’ bites | 1,050 | $13–$18 |
| Onion Petals | Smaller portion for two, same signature seasoning | 1,100 | $7–$9 |
| Lunch Bloomin’ Plate | Smaller entrée pairing with salad | 900 | $10–$13 |
| Family Feast Add-On | Bulk Bloomin’ portion for groups | 3,500 | $25–$35 |
| Seasonal Bloomin’ Special | Limited-time Bloomin’ riff with seasonal flavors | Varies | $14–$30 |
Joining Dine Rewards can make your meal more affordable. New members get a free Bloomin’ Onion worth up to $13.49. This reward is available within 24 to 48 hours and lasts 90 days.
For every dollar spent on food and drinks, you earn 5 points. 350 points get you a $5 reward. But, alcohol, third-party orders, and some promotions don’t count.
Special deals and limited-time items can change the menu’s value. Bloomin’-inspired dishes and shareables cost more but offer unique flavors and sizes.
Seasonal specials can make your visit more memorable without increasing food quantity. A Bloomin’ entrée promotion might cost more but adds value with its flavors or size.
Maximize your meal’s value with simple steps. Join Dine Rewards for the free Bloomin’ Onion offer. Order the Bloomin’ Onion as a starter to save money. Look out for limited-time items to add variety without breaking the bank.
Best Ways to Pair the Bloomin’ Onion with Meals and Drinks
The Outback Bloomin Onion is a great starter for any meal. It’s crunchy and seasoned, perfect with grilled steaks, burgers, or fried proteins. Pairing it with the right sides and drinks makes the meal balanced and fun.
Start with hearty mains. A grilled ribeye or New York strip pairs well with the Bloomin Onion’s savory crust. Burgers get a nice texture with a few fried petals on top. Fried shrimp or chicken dishes match the batter, creating a cohesive plate.
Side dishes that balance richness
Choose lighter sides to balance the fried richness. A crisp house salad with citrus dressing refreshes your palate. Steamed green beans or a simple slaw add a nice contrast. For indulgence, Aussie fries or creamy mashed potatoes are great choices.
Beverage pairings
Cold beers are a natural match. Pale ales and crisp lagers cut through grease and highlight the spice. Iced tea or lemonade offer a nonalcoholic cleanse. If you prefer wine, a dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the Bloomin Onion with bright acidity.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion (shareable) | Hand-cut onion, seasoned breading, served with bloom sauce | 1,500 | $12.99 |
| Ribeye Steak (10 oz) | Grilled, seasoned, pairs well with savory starters | 700 | $25.99 |
| Outback Burger | Classic beef patty, optional bloomin petals on top | 890 | $14.49 |
| Fried Shrimp Entrée | Crispy battered shrimp, complements similar textures | 620 | $16.99 |
| House Side Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, citrus vinaigrette | 120 | $3.99 |
| Aussie Fries | Seasoned shoestring fries, good for sharing | 430 | $4.99 |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, traditional steakhouse side | 250 | $3.99 |
| Iced Tea (glass) | Unsweet or sweetened, palate refresher | 90 | $2.49 |
| Pale Ale (draft) | Crisp hop character, cuts fat | 180 | $6.50 |
| Sauvignon Blanc (glass) | High acidity, citrus notes balance fried flavors | 120 | $8.00 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy (shared fry oil) |
| Ribeye Steak | No | Yes | Yes | Dairy (butter option) |
| Outback Burger | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy (cheese), Egg (bun) |
| Fried Shrimp | No | No | No | Wheat, Shellfish, Egg |
| House Side Salad | Yes | Yes | Yes (without croutons) | Tree Nuts (optional dressings), Dairy (cheese) |
| Aussie Fries | Yes | No | No (shared fry oil) | Shared Fry Oil (may contact other allergens) |
| Mashed Potatoes | No | No | No (contains milk) | Dairy |
| Iced Tea | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Pale Ale | Yes | No | No (barley) | Gluten (barley) |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Yes | Yes | Yes | Sulfites |
- Tip 1: Order the Bloomin’ Onion before the entrée to prime the palate for steak.
- Tip 2: Mix a light salad with a petal or two to moderate richness.
- Tip 3: For group orders, offer beer and lemonade to suit varied tastes.
Copycat Bloomin’ Onion and How to Make Bloomin Onion at Home
Making an Outback-style onion at home is easy and rewarding. You just need the right tools and a simple method. This guide will show you how to make a bloomin’ onion at home. You can also make a tasty sauce to go with it.
Here’s a quick shopping and prep list to help you get started.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Vidalia Onion | Large, firm onion that opens into even petals | 60 per 100g | $1.50–$3.00 each |
| Blooming Onion Cutter | Tool for even petal cuts; speeds prep | 0 (tool) | $12–$25 |
| All-Purpose Flour | Base for seasoned batter and dredge | 455 per cup | $0.50–$1.00 per cup |
| Eggs | Bind coating and help it stick | 70 each | $0.15–$0.40 each |
| Vegetable Oil | Neutral oil for deep frying at 350–375°F | 884 per 100g | $3–$10 per gallon |
| Paprika & Garlic Powder | Key spices for seasoning batter | 20–40 per tbsp | $0.10–$0.50 per tbsp |
| Ketchup / Chili Sauce | Sweet base for the dipping sauce | 20–30 per tbsp | $0.05–$0.20 per tbsp |
| Mayonnaise | Creamy backbone of the dipping sauce | 94 per tbsp | $0.10–$0.30 per tbsp |
| Horseradish | Gives that sharp bite in the sauce | 5 per tsp | $0.10–$0.40 per tsp |
| Thermometer & Tongs | Maintain oil temp; handle hot pieces safely | 0 (tools) | $8–$30 combined |
Essential tools and fryer tips
Use a blooming cutter for neat, even petals. If you lack one, a sharp chef’s knife and patience work just as well. A heavy pot with an oil thermometer substitutes for a deep fryer. Keep oil between 350°F and 375°F to avoid oily or undercooked centers.
Step-by-step overview
Start with a large sweet onion. Trim the top and root so the base holds the petals together. Cut vertical slits to form 12–16 petals, keeping the bottom intact.
Mix seasoned flour: flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the onion in the dry mix, dip in beaten egg or milk, then coat again. Chill briefly to set the breading.
Fry at proper temperature, about 3–5 minutes per side depending on size, until deep golden. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve immediately for the best crispness.
How to recreate the dipping sauce
Combine mayonnaise and ketchup or chili sauce as a base. Add prepared horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice. Taste and adjust heat with hot sauce. Thin with a touch of sour cream or extra ketchup if needed.
The recipe above makes a reliable copycat bloomin onion at home. Use the guidance on temperature control, breading, and the sauce to approach the signature flavor without needing proprietary blends.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion (classic) | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy (possible cross-contact) |
| Copycat bloomin onion (gluten-free) | No | No | Yes (use GF flour) | Egg, Dairy (if used in batter) |
| Vegan batter version | Yes | No | Possible (use GF flour) | May contain Soy |
| Air-fried bloomin onion | No | No | Possible with GF mix | Wheat, Egg |
| Baked bloomin onion | No | No | Possible | Wheat, Egg |
| Bloomin’ onion dipping sauce (classic) | No | No | Yes | Egg, Mustard |
| Low-fat dipping sauce | No | No | Yes | Egg (if mayo used) |
| Horseradish-forward sauce | No | No | Yes | Egg |
| Spicy hot sauce blend | Yes | Yes | Yes | None typical |
| Soy-based dipping substitute | Yes | No | Yes | Soy |
- Tip: Keep oil steady at 350–375°F to avoid soggy petals.
- Tip: Chill the coated onion briefly so the breading adheres during frying.
- Tip: Serve with the bloomin onion dipping sauce while hot for best contrast.
Menu Variations and Bloomin’ Innovations Across Outback Items
Outback Steakhouse took the Bloomin’ Onion idea and made it into many menu items. These items keep the same crunchy, seasoned taste but add new textures and flavors. You can find these riffs in appetizers and main dishes, mixing the signature spice with shrimp, chicken, burgers, and steaks.
Below are some examples from the outback steakhouse menu. We’ve included a quick look at calories and price impact. The table shows common items and their nutrition and cost effects.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp | Battered, seasoned shrimp with Bloomin’-style crunch served with dipping sauce | ~990 | Appetizer price similar to premium starters |
| Bloomin’ Fried Chicken | Buttery, battered chicken entrée using Bloomin’ spice blend | ~970 | Entrée price competitive with chicken mains |
| Bloomin’ Burger | Beef burger topped with Bloomin’ petals or crunchy Bloomin’-style coating | ~1,140 | About $2 extra on base burger price |
| Bloomin’-topped Steaks | Center-cut steaks finished with crispy Bloomin’ elements for texture | Varies by cut; adds 150–300 cal | Premium add-on to steak pricing |
| Filet Sheila (with fried carrot crunch) | Filet paired with a crunchy, fried carrot garnish inspired by Bloomin’ technique | Varies; moderate add-on | Higher than standard filet due to garnish |
Menu tests show how bloomin-inspired items change portioning, price, and nutrition. The battered-spiced technique adds heavy calories and sodium in several cases. Taste tests praise the balance and texture.
Limited-time releases like hot honey shrimp introduced sweet-spicy notes. These specials paired hot honey shrimp with grilled proteins. This created a contrast that improved perceived balance and made the outback steakhouse menu feel seasonal and inventive.
Integration takes three main forms. Some dishes use whole Bloomin’ petals as a topping. Others borrow the batter and spice mix to create a new crust. A third approach applies the crunch concept to non-onion elements such as carrots, shrimp, or chicken.
When you order, expect variation in portion sizes and nutrition based on the chosen format. Bloomin’-inspired items deliver familiar crunch while letting you pick between fried indulgence or a lighter Bloomin’-accented topping for steaks and sandwiches.
Customer Tips: Ordering, Takeout, and Maximizing Your Bloomin’ Onion Experience
The Outback Bloomin’ Onion is best when it’s hot and crispy. Order it right after you sit down or with your first round of appetizers. This way, you get the best texture from the seasoned batter and dipping sauce.
When to order for best freshness
Ask your server to time the onion’s arrival just before your main course. This keeps the petals crunchy while you enjoy your starters. If you’re sharing, ordering early ensures everyone gets a hot, crispy piece.
Takeout handling for crispness
For takeout, ask for the dipping sauce on the side. Make sure the onion is packed in a well-ventilated container, not a sealed box. This helps prevent it from getting soggy during transport.
Bloomin’ onion reheating tips
Avoid microwaving the Bloomin’ Onion. Instead, reheat it in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350–375°F for short intervals. Check and flip it often to keep it crispy without overcooking.
Sharing strategies for groups
Consider the Bloomin’ Onion as a starter for 2–4 people. Pair it with lighter dishes like grilled chicken or salads. Adding some shareable sides can make the meal more exciting.
Pairings and drink suggestions
Drinks like cold beer, iced tea, or lemonade help cut through the fried coating. A crisp white wine also complements the onion’s savory flavors. Choose something refreshing to enjoy between bites.
Rewards and ordering perks
Join Outback’s Dine Rewards to earn points and find special offers, like a free Bloomin’ Onion. Check for location-specific prices and promotions before you order to get the most value from your meal.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | Large hand-cut onion, seasoned batter, fried, served with signature sauce | 1,500 | $12.99 |
| Bloom Petals Combo | Smaller portion of petals for sharing or lighter appetite | 900 | $8.99 |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | Fried shrimp with Bloomin’ spices, served with sauce | 650 | $10.49 |
| Bloom Fried Chicken Bites | Breaded chicken pieces inspired by Bloomin’ seasoning | 720 | $11.99 |
| Side Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, choice of dressing to balance richness | 180 | $4.99 |
| Steak Pairing | Classic center-cut steak to accompany shared apps | 700 | $19.99 |
| French Fries | Crispy fries for sharing with Bloomin’ Onion | 420 | $3.99 |
| Seasonal Veggies | Light, steamed vegetables to offset fried items | 120 | $3.99 |
| Loaded Potato | Baked potato with toppings as a hearty side | 560 | $4.99 |
| House Iced Tea | Refreshing brewed tea, unsweetened or sweetened | 90 | $2.49 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomin’ Onion | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy (shared fryer possible) |
| Bloom Petals Combo | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy |
| Bloomin’ Shrimp | No | No | No | Shellfish, Wheat, Egg |
| Bloom Fried Chicken Bites | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Dairy |
| Side Salad | Yes (without cheese) | Yes (no croutons) | Yes | Dairy (if cheese added) |
| Steak Pairing | No | Yes | Yes (no sauce) | Dairy (butter), Soy (marinade) |
| French Fries | Yes | No | No | Shared fryer with wheat items |
| Seasonal Veggies | Yes | Yes | Yes | None typical, check for butter |
| Loaded Potato | No | No | No | Dairy, Pork (bacon) |
| House Iced Tea | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
- Order early for peak crispness.
- Request sauce on the side for takeout bloomin onion.
- Use an oven or air fryer for bloomin onion reheating.
- Share with 2–4 people and pair with lighter mains.
- Check Dine Rewards and local promos before ordering.
Frequently asked questions below offer quick answers about ordering, reheating, and pairing the Outback Bloomin’ Onion among outback steakhouse appetizers.
- Q: When is the best time to order? A: Order early so it arrives hot with starters.
- Q: Can it travel well? A: It travels better with sauce on the side and a vented container.
- Q: Best reheating method? A: Oven or air fryer at 350–375°F in short bursts.
- Q: How many people does it serve? A: Ideal for 2–4 as a shared starter.
- Q: Any rewards available? A: Dine Rewards can offer points or occasional free items.
- Q: Can it be keto-friendly? A: No, the breading makes it unsuitable for strict keto.
- Q: Allergy concerns? A: Contains wheat and egg; shared fryers may expose to other allergens.
Conclusion
The Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion is a beloved starter. It’s known for its dramatic look, crispy batter, and tangy sauce. It’s a favorite for many, blending bold flavors with a crunchy outside and soft inside.
It’s packed with calories and best shared with 2–4 people. Rewards members can get extra perks, like free Bloomin’ Onions. If you want to make a similar dish at home, use a blooming cutter and a special batter. But remember, the exact recipe is a secret.
When you order it, pair it with grilled meats or light sides to balance it out. Choose drinks that are acidic or bubbly to cut through the richness. Making it at home? Keep the oil hot, fry in small batches, and serve right away. This way, you’ll get that perfect crisp and flavor.
