Outback Steakhouse’s Honey Mustard Sauce: A Taste of the Outback at Home

There are certain flavors that, once experienced, embed themselves in your culinary memory. For me, that’s the unforgettable tang and subtle sweetness of Outback Steakhouse’s Honey Mustard Sauce. I recall my first visit vividly – the dimly lit, rustic ambiance, the satisfying sizzle of a steak arriving at the table, and then, that revelation. A creamy, golden sauce that clung perfectly to a bloomin’ onion petal, transforming it into a bite of pure bliss. It wasn’t just a condiment; it was an experience. Over the years, recreating that magic at home has become a small, personal quest, and I’m thrilled to share a rendition that truly captures the essence of that beloved Outback original.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yields: 1 1/4 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This recipe is surprisingly simple, relying on just a few pantry staples to achieve that signature flavor.

• 1/2 cup prepared salad mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

Chef’s Note on Prepared Salad Mustard: Don’t be intimidated by the term “prepared salad mustard.” This is simply your everyday, bright yellow mustard. It provides the foundational tang and emulsifying properties needed for this sauce.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a lot of specialized equipment for this quick and easy sauce.

• Medium-sized bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula or spoon for serving

Instructions

The beauty of this Outback Steakhouse Honey Mustard Sauce lies in its effortless preparation. There’s no cooking involved, just a simple act of bringing together a few key ingredients.

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the prepared salad mustard, honey, light corn syrup, and mayonnaise.
2. Using a whisk or a fork, vigorously stir all the ingredients together until they are completely smooth. Ensure there are no streaks of any single ingredient remaining. The mixture should transform into a homogenous, creamy, and uniformly golden sauce.
3. Once smooth, the sauce is ready to be used. However, for an even better flavor, it’s recommended to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Chef’s Note on Separation: It’s common for the ingredients in this sauce to separate a little if it’s stored in the refrigerator for an extended period. If you notice this, don’t worry! Simply give it a quick stir with a spoon or whisk before serving, and it will be perfectly emulsified again.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While this recipe is inherently forgiving, a few professional insights can elevate your Outback-inspired honey mustard experience.

• Quality of Mayonnaise: While any mayonnaise will work, using a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise will contribute to a richer, creamier texture and a more balanced flavor profile. Avoid low-fat or “light” versions if possible, as they can sometimes affect the consistency.
• The Power of Chilling: As mentioned, allowing the sauce to chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour is crucial. This isn’t just about temperature; it’s about allowing the disparate flavors to harmonize. The sharp tang of the mustard, the sweetness of the honey, and the subtle richness of the mayonnaise will all meld into a more complex and satisfying taste.
• Adjusting Sweetness/Tang: While this recipe aims for the classic Outback balance, your personal preference might lean slightly sweeter or tangier. After the initial mixing and before chilling, taste a small amount. If you prefer it sweeter, a tiny drizzle more of honey can be added. For more tang, a minuscule splash of white vinegar (start with 1/4 teaspoon) can be incorporated. Whisk thoroughly after any additions.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This versatile sauce is a star in many applications, but its most famous pairing is undeniable.

Serving:
This honey mustard sauce is, of course, the quintessential companion to the iconic Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse. It also makes an incredible dipping sauce for their famous Bloomin’ Onion. Beyond that, consider it for:

• Chicken tenders or nuggets
• Grilled or roasted chicken
• Pork chops
• Sandwiches and wraps
• Salad dressing – thin it with a little water or apple cider vinegar if needed.

Storage:
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5–7 days. As noted, a slight separation is normal; just give it a good stir before each use. Due to the mayonnaise content, this sauce is not suitable for freezing.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content for this delicious honey mustard sauce. Please note that these are approximations and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx.)	% Daily Value (approx.)
Calories	162 kcal	8%
Total Fat	4.7 g	6%
Saturated Fat	0.8 g	4%
Cholesterol	3.1 mg	1%
Sodium	375 mg	16%
Total Carbohydrate	25.5 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	22.6 g	45%
Protein	0.6 g	1%

Note: These values are based on a serving size of approximately 1/4 cup and a standard 2,000-calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic recipe is hard to beat, feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture. Start with a small amount and increase to your taste.
• Herbal Infusion: Finely minced fresh dill or chives can add a lovely herbaceous note. Stir them in after the sauce is smooth.
• Dijon Delight: For a more complex mustard flavor, you can substitute half of the prepared salad mustard with Dijon mustard. This will introduce a sharper, more nuanced tang.
• Honey Alternatives: If you don’t have honey or want to explore other natural sweeteners, maple syrup can be used as a substitute, though it will impart a distinct maple flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is “prepared salad mustard” and can I use other mustards?
A: Prepared salad mustard refers to the common yellow mustard found in most supermarkets. You can experiment with other mustards like Dijon, but it will alter the flavor profile.

Q: Why does my sauce separate in the fridge?
A: The emulsification of the ingredients, particularly the mayonnaise and mustard, can sometimes break down when chilled for extended periods. This is normal and easily fixed with a quick stir.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended. Making it ahead and allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour will enhance the flavor by letting the ingredients meld together.

Q: How long does this sauce last in the refrigerator?
A: Stored in an airtight container, this sauce should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days.

Q: Can I use this sauce as a salad dressing?
A: Yes, it can be used as a salad dressing. If it seems too thick, you can thin it out slightly with a touch of water, white vinegar, or even a little more mayonnaise to reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from recreating a beloved restaurant favorite in your own kitchen. This Outback Steakhouse Honey Mustard Sauce is a testament to that – simple ingredients coming together to forge an unforgettable taste. Whether you’re drizzling it over perfectly grilled chicken, using it as a dip for golden onion petals, or even as a bright counterpoint to a simple salad, this sauce is sure to become a staple. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and let the familiar, comforting flavors of the Outback transport you, no passport required. Enjoy!