Bloomin’ Onion Bites with Dipping Sauce: A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

There’s something undeniably magical about the crispy, golden layers of a Bloomin’ Onion—especially when it’s bite-sized and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, a casual get-together, or just craving a fun snack, these Bloomin’ Onion Bites are guaranteed to disappear fast. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with just the right amount of spice.

I first fell in love with this appetizer at a local fair, where the aroma of fried onions lured me in from across the parking lot. But let’s be honest—deep-frying a whole onion at home can feel a little intimidating (not to mention messy). That’s why I love this bite-sized version. It’s easier to make, just as delicious, and perfect for sharing. Plus, that creamy dipping sauce? It’s the stuff dreams are made of. Trust me, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

Why You’ll Love These Bloomin’ Onion Bites

If you need more convincing (though I doubt you will after one bite), here’s why this recipe is a winner:

• Perfect for sharing: No need to fight over who gets the crispiest petal—every bite is equally delicious.
• Easy to customize: Adjust the spice level to your liking, or swap the dipping sauce for your favorite ranch or sriracha mayo.
• Crowd-pleaser: These little bites are always the first to vanish at parties. Consider doubling the batch!

How to Make Bloomin’ Onion Bites with Dipping Sauce

Ready to get started? Here’s everything you’ll need to bring these crispy bites to life.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet onions (like Vidalia)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp horseradish
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Prep the onions: Slice off the tops and bottoms of the onions, then cut them into 1-inch wedges. Separate the layers gently to create “petals.”
2. Soak in buttermilk: Place the onion pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let soak for at least 30 minutes (this helps tenderize them and adds flavor).
3. Mix the coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and salt.
4. Coat the onions: Drain the onions, then toss them in the flour mixture until fully coated.
5. Fry to perfection: Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pot. Fry the onion bites in batches until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
6. Make the sauce: Stir together all dipping sauce ingredients until smooth. Serve alongside the hot onion bites.

Tips for the Best Bloomin’ Onion Bites

• For extra crispiness, double-dip the onions: coat in flour, dip back in buttermilk, then coat in flour again.
• Don’t overcrowd the fryer—this keeps the oil temperature steady for even cooking.
• Serve immediately for maximum crunch. If needed, keep warm in a 200°F oven while frying batches.

If you love finger foods as much as I do, you’ll adore these Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites—they’re another game-day favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

There you have it—everything you need to make these irresistible Bloomin’ Onion Bites with Dipping Sauce. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just treating yourself, they’re sure to be a hit. For more crowd-pleasing appetizers, check out these Loaded Nachos or this guide to frying onions from Serious Eats. Happy snacking!

Bloomin’ Onion Bites with Dipping Sauce

• Author: The Spicy Skillet

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Description

These crispy Bloomin’ Onion Bites are the perfect party appetizer! Made with bite-sized pieces of onion coated in a seasoned batter and fried to golden perfection, served with a tangy dipping sauce. A fun twist on the classic bloomin’ onion that’s easy to share!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust:

• For the Onion Bites:
• 2 large sweet onions (like Vidalia)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the Dipping Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp horseradish
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. 1. Prepare the onions: Peel the onions and cut them into 1-inch thick slices. Separate the slices into individual rings.
2. 2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
3. 3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg until smooth.
4. 4. Dredge the onion rings: Dip each onion ring first in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk mixture, then back in the flour mixture. Shake off excess and place on a plate.
5. 5. Heat oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
6. 6. Fry the onions: Working in batches, fry the onion bites for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
7. 7. Make the sauce: While onions fry, mix all dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Refrigerate until serving.
8. 8. Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

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Notes

For extra crispiness, let the coated onion rings rest for 10 minutes before frying. You can bake these at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes for a lighter version, but they won’t be as crispy.