Easy Blooming Onion Sauce Recipe

A creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy dipping sauce that perfectly complements crispy blooming onions, fries, onion rings, or even sandwiches—quick to make and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sauce tastes just like the iconic Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion dip but is incredibly easy to make at home with common pantry ingredients. It’s creamy, tangy, and customizable to your spice preference. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a snack, this versatile sauce comes together in minutes and elevates any dish you serve it with.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
  • Ketchup
  • Prepared horseradish
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika (regular or smoked)
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Dried oregano (optional)
  • Salt
  • Ground black pepper

directions

  1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), and ketchup.
  2. Stir in the prepared horseradish, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix until well blended and smooth.
  4. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a dip or spread.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: About 1 to 1½ cups (serves 4–8 people depending on usage)
  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Chill time (optional): 30 minutes

Variations

  • Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang.
  • Use smoked paprika for a deeper, more complex flavor.
  • Increase cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
  • Swap horseradish with Dijon mustard if you prefer less spice.

storage/reheating

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature—no reheating necessary.
  • Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may separate.

FAQs

What does this sauce taste like?

It’s creamy, slightly spicy, tangy, and savory with a flavor profile similar to Outback’s Bloomin’ Onion dip.

Can I make this without horseradish?

Yes, though horseradish adds a signature zing. You can omit it or use a milder alternative like Dijon mustard.

How spicy is this sauce?

It has a mild heat. You can adjust the cayenne or horseradish for more or less spice.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your individual ingredients are certified gluten-free. Always check labels.

Can I use this as a sandwich spread?

Absolutely! It makes a delicious spread for burgers, wraps, or sandwiches.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayo and skip the sour cream or substitute with a dairy-free version.

Do I need to refrigerate it before serving?

Chilling is optional but recommended to enhance the flavor. It tastes great freshly made, too.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?

You can, but it will give the sauce a slightly sweeter flavor.

How long does this sauce last in the fridge?

It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks when stored properly.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Freezing is not recommended, as it can cause separation and change the texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Blooming Onion Sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, creamy dips with a kick. It’s perfect for entertaining, game day snacking, or adding extra flavor to everyday meals. Quick to make and always a hit, you’ll want to keep a jar of this on hand at all times.

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Easy Blooming Onion Sauce Recipe

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes prep + 30 minutes chilling
  • Yield: ½ cup (about 8 tablespoons) 1x
  • Category: Dipping Sauce
  • Method: No‑cook / Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy, tangy dipping sauce perfect for pairing with a crispy blooming onion or fried appetizers.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for kick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  2. Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and sugar; whisk to combine.
  3. Stir in lemon juice or vinegar until evenly incorporated.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra paprika/cayenne if desired.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  6. Serve chilled alongside a blooming onion, fries, chicken tenders, or veggies.

Notes

  • Make it ahead—can be stored, covered, in the fridge for up to a week.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
  • Add 1 teaspoon honey or a pinch of sugar if you prefer sweeter sauce.
  • Customize spice level: increase cayenne for heat or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Works great as a spread for sandwiches and burgers too.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 100 kcal
  • Sugar: 1.5 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0.2 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg

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