Official Bloomin Sauce Nutritional Breakdown
When you order the Bloomin' Onion appetizer at Outback Steakhouse, the zesty dipping sauce is a star in its own right. However, for those monitoring their caloric intake, the official numbers reveal its richness. A standard 2-ounce serving of the Bloom Sauce contains the following nutritional information, based on Outback's own published data:
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: Less than 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 1g
As these figures show, the bulk of the calories come from the high fat content, with a relatively low amount of carbohydrates and protein. For many diners, a single 2-ounce cup might be a conservative estimate of the amount of sauce consumed alongside the large appetizer.
The Bloomin' Onion's Overall Impact
It is crucial to remember that the sauce's calories are just one piece of the puzzle. The entire Bloomin' Onion appetizer is a calorie-dense dish. Other nutritional databases confirm that a full order of the appetizer, including both the fried onion and the dipping sauce, can push well over the 1,900-calorie mark. This makes it a meal-sized appetizer for a single person, and when shared, the calorie contribution from the rich, creamy sauce is still significant per individual.
Creating a Lighter, Homemade Bloomin Sauce
For those who love the flavor but not the nutritional impact, a homemade version is a perfect solution. You can significantly reduce the calories and fat by swapping out key ingredients without sacrificing the signature taste. Here is a sample recipe for a healthier copycat Bloomin sauce:
Ingredients
- ½ cup non-fat Greek yogurt or reduced-fat mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons light ketchup
- 1 tablespoon creamy horseradish sauce
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish sauce. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Add the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to incorporate all the spices evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld, creating a more balanced and authentic taste.
Comparison of Dipping Sauces
To put the Bloomin sauce into perspective, here is a comparison table featuring its nutrition alongside other common restaurant dipping sauces. All values are approximate for a 2-ounce serving.
| Sauce Type | Calories (per 2 oz) | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outback Bloomin Sauce | 310 | 33 | 550 |
| Homemade Lighter Version | ~100-150 | ~10-15 | Varies |
| Standard Ranch Dressing | ~260-320 | ~28-34 | ~450-600 |
| Outback Honey Mustard Sauce | 300 | 27 | 390 |
| Standard Ketchup | ~60 | ~0 | ~320 |
This table clearly illustrates why the Bloomin sauce, and others like it, should be enjoyed in moderation. The homemade version offers a substantial reduction in both calories and fat, making it a much more diet-friendly option.
Tips for Enjoying Bloomin Sauce Mindfully
If you choose to indulge in the original, or want to manage your intake more effectively, consider these tips:
- Use Less: Don't dunk every petal completely. A little bit of sauce goes a long way. Use just enough to get a taste, rather than saturating every piece.
- Portion Control: Request an extra cup or two of the sauce to share with the table, preventing one person from consuming an entire serving size.
- Ask for Light Alternatives: Inquire if the restaurant offers lighter options, such as low-fat mayonnaise, that might be used as a base.
- Balance Your Meal: Order a healthier entrée and side dish to offset the high calorie and fat content of the appetizer and sauce.
- Make Your Own: As detailed above, a homemade version is the best way to have full control over the ingredients and nutritional content.
Conclusion
While the creamy, spicy flavor of Outback's Bloomin sauce is undeniably delicious, its high calorie and fat count warrants attention. For a 2-ounce serving, the 310 calories and 33 grams of fat can add a significant burden to a meal. Making informed choices, practicing portion control, and considering a lighter homemade alternative are all effective strategies for enjoying the iconic flavor without derailing your nutritional goals. For comprehensive nutritional information directly from the source, consult the official Outback Steakhouse nutritional guide.
