A blooming onion is a show-stopping appetizer made from a whole onion cut to “bloom,” battered with seasoned flour, and fried until perfectly crispy. It’s a favorite at steakhouses—but you don’t need a restaurant to enjoy it. When you try this blooming onion recipe today, you’ll get big flavor with simple ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
For the Blooming Onion
1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or yellow onion works best)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup milk or buttermilk
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp prepared horseradish
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt to taste
How to Make a Blooming Onion
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Cut off the top of the onion (not the root).
Place the onion root-side down.
Make vertical cuts downward, stopping about ½ inch from the root.
Gently separate the layers to “bloom” the onion.
💡 Tip: Chill the onion for 30 minutes to help it open more easily.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
Step 3: Coat the Onion
Dredge the onion thoroughly in the seasoned flour, making sure flour gets between all layers.
Dip into the egg mixture.
Coat again with flour for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully lower the onion into the oil, root side up.
Fry for 3–4 minutes, then flip and fry another 3–4 minutes.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Dipping Sauce
Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
Practical Tips for the Best Blooming Onion
Use sweet onions for the best flavor
Double-coat for maximum crunch
Keep oil hot to prevent sogginess
Season immediately after frying
Serve hot for best texture
If you want a lighter version, this recipe also works in an air fryer or oven with a light oil spray.
Serving Ideas
As a party appetizer
Game-day snack
Side dish with burgers or steak
With extra sauces like ranch or spicy mayo
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Extra crispy
✔ Bold seasoning
✔ Easy to make at home
✔ Crowd-pleasing
✔ Better than restaurant versions
When you try this blooming onion recipe today, you’ll see just how easy it is to create a crispy, golden appetizer that everyone loves.