Air fryer enthusiasts and Outback Steakhouse fans alike will be delighted with this Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion. This dish captures the crispy, flavorful essence of the restaurant favorite in a healthier way by using an air fryer. Imagine a perfectly cooked onion, beautifully bloomed and seasoned, ready to be dipped into your favorite sauce. This recipe provides that and more, offering easy steps to create an impressive appetizer or snack right in your kitchen.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 210
- Protein: 4g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
- Fat: 8g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugar: 1g per serving
- Sodium: 350mg per serving
Why Make This Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion
Making this Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion is not only incredibly satisfying but also super convenient. By using an air fryer, you achieve that crunchy outer layer without the excess oil from traditional frying. It’s a treat that appeals to onion lovers and those who crave crispy snacks. Perfect for game day, movie nights, or casual dinner parties, this tasty dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and get everyone dipping into some fun!
How to Make Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the top of the onion and remove the papery skin. Next, cut about 1/2 inch off the bottom of the onion, ensuring it sits flat on your cutting board. Carefully cut the onion into 16 wedges, but be sure to leave the bottom intact so the onion holds its shape when blooming.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper (if using for an extra kick). In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well blended.
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Step 3: Coating
Dip the onion into the egg mixture, coating it thoroughly. Then, transfer it to the flour mixture and shake off any excess. To achieve a thicker coating, repeat this step once more for both mixtures, ensuring the onion is fully covered.
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Step 4: Cooking
Lightly spray the onion with cooking spray to promote a crispy, golden-brown finish. Place the onion in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is sitting flat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping the onion halfway through cooking, until it’s golden brown and crispy.
How to Serve Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion
This Bloomin Onion is best served hot right out of the air fryer. Pair it with a spicy or tangy dipping sauce like ranch, ketchup, or a homemade remoulade. Serve it as a fantastic appetizer or nibble for your guests to share, making it perfect for any social gathering.
How to Store Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion
If you have leftovers, allow the Bloomin Onion to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to revive its crispiness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion
- Choose the Right Onion: A large Vidalia or sweet onion works best for a milder flavor and easy blooming.
- Coating Consistency: Make sure the onion is evenly coated in both egg and flour mixtures to ensure that all parts become crispy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Air fry in batches if necessary. Ensuring good airflow helps achieve that desired crunch.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the flour mixture for extra flavor or adjust the cayenne depending on your heat preference.
Delicious Variations
- Cheesy Bloomin Onion: Add grated cheese to the flour mixture for extra flavor.
- Spicy Option: Add more cayenne or other spices such as smoked paprika or chili powder for a fiery kick.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the onion and coat it before refrigerating it for up to a few hours. Cook it right before serving for the best results. -
What dipping sauces work well?
Great options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy dipping sauce made with mayo and hot sauce. -
Can I freeze the Bloomin Onion?
Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh. -
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water and use plant-based milk. -
How do I know when the onion is fully cooked?
It should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the onion layers should be soft when pierced with a fork.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant favorite in the comfort of your home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a stunning, crispy appetizer that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and treat yourself to this delightful dish. You’ll be glad you did! Enjoy your creative cooking adventure!
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Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion
- Author: lydia
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A healthier take on the beloved restaurant classic, this recipe offers a perfectly cooked Bloomin Onion that is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the top of the onion and remove the papery skin. Cut about 1/2 inch off the bottom to ensure it sits flat. Slice the onion into 16 wedges while keeping the bottom intact.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne (if using). In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- Dip the onion in the egg mixture, then in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. For a thicker coating, repeat once more for both mixtures.
- Lightly spray the onion with cooking spray. Place it in the air fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
Serve immediately with dipping sauces like ranch or remoulade. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





