You might think a simple onion could never steal the spotlight at your dinner table—but this recipe proves otherwise.
With just a large onion, some careful slicing, a seasoned batter, and a hot fryer, you can create a golden, crispy appetizer that wows every guest. Paired with a creamy, slightly spicy dipping sauce, this homemade Bloomin’ Onion rivals any restaurant version—and the best part? Anyone can make it at home.
Ingredients
For the Onion
1 large sweet onion (Vidalia recommended)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Dipping Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp prepared horseradish
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion
Peel the onion and remove the top (non-root) end.
Place the onion root-side down.
Slice from the top toward the root, making 16–20 even cuts, stopping about ½ inch from the bottom.
Carefully separate the layers to form a blooming flower shape.
2. Make the Batter
In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with milk.
3. Coat the Onion
Dip the onion into the egg mixture, then into the seasoned flour, making sure all petals are coated.
For extra crunch, repeat the egg and flour coating once more.
4. Fry the Onion
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
Gently lower the onion into the hot oil and fry for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Remove carefully and drain on paper towels.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne until smooth.
Serve alongside the hot Bloomin’ Onion.
Conclusion
With patience and care, a humble onion transforms into a show-stopping centerpiece. Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, this homemade Bloomin’ Onion is perfect for parties, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress. After this, friends might start suspecting you’ve been hiding professional chef skills all along.