Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day ahead lets the flavors meld together, creating the ultimate creamy, tangy, spicy dip. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute and even lightens up the sauce. The texture and tang will be slightly different but just as delicious. Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is best for a creamy, rich result.

What can I do if my sauce is too spicy?

If you've gone a little overboard with the cayenne or horseradish, just add a bit more mayo and sour cream, mix well, and taste again. This will tame the heat quickly and bring everything back in balance.

Is it possible to double or triple this recipe?

Definitely! This sauce is a crowd-pleaser. Simply double or triple every ingredient, and be sure to use a larger bowl for mixing. It’ll keep for up to a week in the fridge, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead for a party.

Copycat Outback Bloomin Onion Sauce Recipe

Ready to become the star of your next get-together or simply elevate a weeknight dinner? This Copycat Outback Bloomin Onion Sauce is an absolute flavor bomb and one of those recipes that makes you ask, “Why haven’t I been making this at home all along?” It comes together in just a few minutes with pantry staples, tastes exactly like the iconic restaurant dip, and is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it, dip it, spread it—this sauce makes everything it touches utterly irresistible. Whether paired with a crispy bloomin’ onion, fries, chips, or even veggies, it’s creamy, zippy, and impossible to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and Fuss-Free: Mix, chill, and you’re done—no cooking required. You can whip this up in three minutes flat.
Big, Bold Flavors: Creamy, tangy, and just the right level of spice. Every bite is perfectly balanced.
Customizable: Loves a twist—change up the spices or even the base to suit your mood.
Crowd-Pleasing: Always a hit at parties, game days, and family dinners. Don’t be surprised if you get requests for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of this sauce; opt for a good-quality mayo for the best result.
Sour Cream: Adds luxurious tang and makes the sauce extra smooth.
Ketchup: Provides color and a subtle, sweet tomato kick.
Prepared Horseradish: The not-so-secret ingredient that gives this sauce its signature zip!
Fresh Garlic: For real depth of flavor; skip the powder and mince a clove for best results.
Kosher Salt: Just enough to lift all the other flavors.
Black Pepper: Adds a warm, slightly sharp finish.
Smoked Paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness—don’t skip it!
Cayenne Pepper: For heat; start small and adjust to taste. A little goes a long way.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Spicy Lover: Amp up the cayenne, or stir in a pinch of chipotle powder.
Light Version: Swap in Greek yogurt for some of the mayo or sour cream.
Herby Twists: Stir in a bit of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a vibrant, herby note.
Garlic Extraordinaire: Add a pinch of garlic powder if you love a strong garlic flavor.
Sweet and Tangy: A splash of pickle juice or a smidge of honey transforms the flavor profile completely.

How to Make Copycat Outback Bloomin Onion Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, prepared horseradish, freshly minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.

Step 2: Whisk It Up

Grab a small whisk (or a fork in a pinch) and blend everything together until smooth, creamy, and beautifully pink with no lumps.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Dip in a spoon and taste. Add a touch more cayenne if you want things spicier, or tweak with extra horseradish for extra zing.

Step 4: Chill

Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the very best flavor, let it rest overnight—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 5: Serve

Spoon into a small bowl right before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or minced chives if you’re feeling fancy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Whisk, Don’t Stir: Using a whisk ensures a perfectly creamy, unified sauce—no streaks!
Use Fresh Garlic: Mincing a fresh clove adds so much more depth than garlic powder.
Chill Well: The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld. Overnight is best.
Horseradish Matters: Prepared horseradish, not creamy horseradish sauce, is what you want for that true Outback kick.
Taste as You Go: Spices (especially cayenne and horseradish) can be easily adjusted—make it your own!

How to Serve

This blooming onion sauce is a total multitasker! Naturally, it’s perfect as a dip for a homemade bloomin’ onion, but don’t stop there:

Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside onion rings, fries, chicken tenders, or even shrimp.
Spread: Smear it on burgers, sandwiches, or wraps for major flavor impact.
Veggie Dip: Liven up a platter of carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
Potato Pal: Spoon it over baked potatoes, roasted potatoes, or use as a dip for potato wedges.

For gatherings, set it out with a platter of assorted dippers and watch it vanish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it’ll stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

Not the best candidate for freezing, as mayo and sour cream can separate. Prepare just what you’ll use in a week.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Just give it a stir if it separates slightly in the fridge. If it thickens up, a splash of milk or a bit more mayo will bring it back.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day ahead lets the flavors meld together, creating the ultimate creamy, tangy, spicy dip. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute and even lightens up the sauce. The texture and tang will be slightly different but just as delicious. Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is best for a creamy, rich result.
What can I do if my sauce is too spicy?

If you’ve gone a little overboard with the cayenne or horseradish, just add a bit more mayo and sour cream, mix well, and taste again. This will tame the heat quickly and bring everything back in balance.
Is it possible to double or triple this recipe?

Definitely! This sauce is a crowd-pleaser. Simply double or triple every ingredient, and be sure to use a larger bowl for mixing. It’ll keep for up to a week in the fridge, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead for a party.

Final Thoughts

There really isn’t anything quite like this Copycat Outback Bloomin Onion Sauce to make everyday snacks and meals unforgettable. It’s quick, easy, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress absolutely anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a die-hard Outback fan or just looking for a surefire crowd-pleaser, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever did without it!