The Ultimate Blooming Onion Dipping Sauce

Blooming Onion Sauce Recipe Better Than Outback

By Chef BakerJuly 7, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Craving that Outback Taste?

Ever had that incredible blooming onion sauce at a certain steakhouse? Honestly, it's addictive! This recipe lets you make it at home.

It’s got that creamy, tangy, slightly spicy flavour profile we all love.

What's the Deal with this Sauce?

This sauce is basically a copycat restaurant recipe of the iconic Outback blooming onion sauce . It’s American in origin, obvs.

It’s super easy to make, taking only like 40 minutes including chill time. This recipe makes about 1 cup.

Why You'll Love This

This homemade blooming onion sauce is way better than store-bought stuff. No weird preservatives! It's perfect for parties or just a cheeky mid-week treat.

It's also a great way to sneak in some extra flavour to your veggies. Want to try some exciting onion recipes ? This dipping sauce can add a zing.

You can also consider experimenting to make it a spicy dipping sauce recipe .

Getting Started: The Ingredients

Ready to get started? Here's what you'll need: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

This is the best onion appetizer sauce ever. I sometimes add a bit of hot sauce for extra zing.

Alright, let's get down to the nitty gritty of making this amazing blooming onion sauce ! You know, the kind that makes your taste buds sing.

This onion appetizer sauce is so good, you'll ditch the restaurant version for good. Honestly, it's a total game changer for all your onion recipes .

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Shopping List

We're keeping it simple, promise! No need for a culinary degree to whip up this homemade blooming onion sauce . Just grab these bits and bobs.

Main Ingredients

These are the stars of our spicy dipping sauce recipe . Good quality stuff makes all the difference.

Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Full fat is where it’s at for richness. Trust me.
Ketchup: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Any brand you dig will work.
Prepared Horseradish: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . The fresher, the better!
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Adds that umami depth.
Paprika: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Sweet or smoked, your call!
Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Gotta have that garlic punch.
Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . Because...onions!
Dried Oregano: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . A little herbal goodness.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . Freshly ground is best, obvs.
Cayenne Pepper: A pinch, totally optional for a kick! I'm talking fire!

Seasoning Notes

Let's talk flavor! These are the magic makers.

Horseradish is essential for that signature kick. If you're feeling brave, use freshly grated! The Outback blooming onion sauce is so popular because it has the ideal balance of creaminess, spice, and that certain je ne sais quoi .

The cayenne is your friend if you want that extra heat. Add a dash more, if you know what I mean.

Equipment Needed

Seriously, this is easy. Think basic.

Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons and cups
Whisk or fork

No fancy stuff required. If you don't have a whisk, a fork works just fine. Got a bowl? Great! Let's get this blooming onion sauce party started!

Once you have these ingredients to hand. You can produce your very own version of this Copycat Restaurant Recipes .

Mastering the Blooming Onion Sauce : Your New Obsession

Honestly, who doesn't love that creamy, slightly spicy dipping sauce that comes with a blooming onion? You know, the one that makes you want to lick the plate clean? So here's how to make it at home! This copycat restaurant recipe is so easy, it's almost embarrassing.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic

First things first, let's get organized. Gather your ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise , 1/4 cup ketchup , 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish , 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce , 1 teaspoon paprika , 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder , 1/4 teaspoon onion powder , 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano , 1/4 teaspoon black pepper , and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy).

This is your essential mise en place . Having everything ready will make your life much easier. Plus, no safety concerns here unless you consider aggressive whisking a hazard!

step-by-step to the Outback blooming onion sauce Glory

Combine : In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients.
Whisk : Whisk everything until smooth and creamy. Get rid of any lumps!
Taste : Taste the sauce. Does it need more kick? More horseradish.
Adjust : Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat, or a touch of sugar if you like it sweeter.
Chill : Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes . This lets the flavors meld.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade blooming onion sauce

Want to take your onion sauce to the next level? Use high-quality mayo. It makes a difference. Don't skip the chilling time.

It really does enhance the flavor. Also, fresh horseradish will give it an extra zing. And here's a common mistake to avoid: over horseradish-ing! Start with the recommended amount and add more to taste.

You can store this awesome onion appetizer sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days.

This spicy dipping sauce recipe is a game changer! Forget the restaurant now you can enjoy the perfect blooming onion experience right at home.

Seriously, this horseradish dipping sauce will be your new go-to for everything from fries to burgers. I swear, you won't regret trying this Blooming Onion Sauce !

Recipe Notes

Let's dive into the nitty gritty, shall we? This blooming onion sauce isn't just a recipe; it’s a game changer for any appetizer spread.

Serving Suggestions: Get Creative!

Okay, so you've made the amazing homemade blooming onion sauce . Now what?

Well, obviously, it’s perfect with a blooming onion . I once made this huge platter for a party, complete with a giant blooming onion in the middle.

The plating? I just piled it all high and let people dig in!

Think beyond just the blooming onion . This onion appetizer sauce is amazing with fries. Also consider carrot sticks or bell pepper for dipping.

Drinks wise, a cold beer or even an iced tea complements the slight spice perfectly. It is great for copycat restaurant recipes .

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

Honestly, I rarely have any of this blooming onion sauce left over. I do keep it in the fridge though.

This horseradish dipping sauce keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It's good for up to 5 days.

I do not recommend freezing this sauce. The mayonnaise might separate.

Variations: Tweak It Your Way

Want to mix things up? I get it. Let's customize this onion sauce !

For a lighter version, use light mayonnaise. Also, for a vegan option, use vegan mayonnaise. Just be sure to check that your Worcestershire sauce is vegan too.

For a seasonal twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika in the autumn. The flavor goes so well with the season!

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

I'm no nutritionist. One serving has about 120 calories, a bit of fat, and some carbs. This spicy dipping sauce recipe also gives you a little kick of vitamin C from the horseradish.

It's also packed with flavour. It is just the right Outback blooming onion sauce and it is amazing.

So there you have it! My tips and tricks for making the best blooming onion sauce . Go on, give it a try.

You won't regret it! Trust me, you are going to want to make these onion recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make blooming onion sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it's recommended. The flavors of this blooming onion sauce really meld together and deepen when given time to sit. Prepare it a day or two in advance for the best taste, just like a good Sunday roast benefits from resting!

My blooming onion dipping sauce is too spicy! How can I tone it down?

No worries, we've all been there! The easiest way to reduce the heat is to add a touch more mayonnaise or ketchup to dilute the spiciness. You can also add a tiny bit of sugar (like 1/4 teaspoon) to balance the flavors.

A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also help cool things down if you're really feeling the burn!

How long does homemade blooming onion sauce last in the fridge?

Your homemade blooming onion sauce will happily keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just like leftovers from your favourite takeaway, make sure it smells and looks good before diving in. If in doubt, chuck it out!

What can I use instead of horseradish in this blooming onion sauce recipe?

If you're fresh out of horseradish, don't fret! A small amount of wasabi paste (start with just 1/4 teaspoon) can provide a similar kick, but be careful as wasabi can be quite potent! Alternatively, you could try a bit of Dijon mustard, although it will change the flavor profile slightly.

A little goes a long way, so add in small increments.

Is there a healthier version of blooming onion sauce I can make?

Yes, you can lighten it up! Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangier and lower fat option. Also, consider using a sugar-free ketchup or a natural sweetener like stevia. Remember to check the label of your Worcestershire sauce to ensure it isn't too high in sodium, or look for a low-sodium alternative.

Besides blooming onions, what else goes well with this dipping sauce?

Think beyond the onion! This blooming onion sauce is amazing with fries (both regular and sweet potato), onion rings, and crispy chicken tenders. It's also fantastic as a burger topping or a dip for raw veggies like carrots and celery a real crowd pleaser for any barbecue, party or just a cheeky midweek treat!