Outback Steakhouse is a prominent American casual dining chain known for its Australian-themed atmosphere and high-quality beef. Since its founding, the restaurant has focused on providing a variety of seasoned steaks, seafood, and unique appetizers. Understanding the menu options can help you plan your visit and ensure you find a meal that fits your dietary preferences and budget.
The Outback Steakhouse menu is designed to offer something for everyone, ranging from hearty multi-course dinners to lighter lunch fare. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the menu categories, signature items, and tips for ordering to help you make the most of your next visit.
Signature Steaks and Beef Options
Beef is the cornerstone of the Outback menu. The restaurant offers several different cuts, each with distinct textures and flavor profiles. Most steaks are served with a choice of two sides.
Popular Steak Cuts
- Victoria’s Filet Mignon: This is the most tender cut available. It is a thick, succulent steak known for its buttery texture.
- Outback Center-Cut Sirloin: A lean and flavorful option, the sirloin is a popular choice for those who want a classic steak experience.
- Ribeye: This cut is well-marbled, which makes it juicy and savory. It is ideal for those who prefer a richer flavor.
- Bone-In Natural Cut Ribeye: This is a larger, extra-marbled cut that is charred on the bone for maximum flavor.
- Melbourne Porterhouse: A combination of a strip and a tender filet, providing a substantial meal for a large appetite.
Preparation Styles
When ordering a steak at Outback, you can usually choose between two preparation styles. The Seasoned & Seared style uses a blend of 17 spices and is cooked on a flat-top grill. The Wood-Fire Grilled style offers a lighter seasoning and a natural smoky flavor from the grill.
You will also need to specify your preferred doneness. Options range from Rare (cool red center) to Well Done (cooked through with no pink). For the best balance of flavor and tenderness, many chefs recommend Medium-Rare or Medium.
Famous Aussie-Tizers
The appetizer menu, referred to as “Aussie-Tizers,” features several iconic dishes that are often shared among the table. These items are designed to be bold and savory.
- Bloomin’ Onion: This is Outback’s most famous dish. It consists of a giant onion that is hand-carved, breaded, fried, and served with a signature spicy dipping sauce.
- Aussie Cheese Fries: These are topped with melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese and chopped bacon, served with a side of spicy ranch dressing.
- Kookaburra Wings: These chicken wings are available in mild, medium, or hot spice levels and are served with blue cheese dressing and celery.
- Sydney ‘Shrooms: Lightly battered and fried mushrooms served with a ranch dipping sauce.
- Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp: Hand-dipped in batter, rolled in coconut, and fried until golden, served with a Creole marmalade.
Chicken, Seafood, and Ribs
While steak is the main attraction, Outback offers several alternatives for those who prefer poultry, seafood, or pork. These dishes often feature the same bold seasonings found on the steak menu.
The Alice Springs Chicken is a fan favorite, featuring a flame-grilled chicken breast topped with sautéed mushrooms, crisp bacon, melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar, and honey mustard sauce. For seafood lovers, the Perfectly Grilled Salmon or the Steamed Lobster Tails provide lighter but filling options.
The Baby Back Ribs are another staple. These are smoked, grilled, and brushed with a tangy BBQ sauce. Many diners choose a “Steak & Mate” combo, which allows you to pair a smaller sirloin with ribs, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
Burgers, Sandwiches, and Salads
For a more casual meal, the menu includes a variety of handhelds and fresh salads. These are often preferred during lunch hours or for a quicker dining experience.
The The Outbacker Burger is topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and mustard. You can add cheese or bacon for a small additional fee. The Bloomin’ Fried Chicken Sandwich incorporates the flavors of the Bloomin’ Onion by using the signature batter and spicy sauce on a fried chicken breast.
If you are looking for something lighter, the Brisbane Caesar Salad or the Aussie Cobb Salad are excellent choices. You can customize these by adding grilled or crispy chicken, shrimp, or steak.
Side Dishes and Add-ons
Most entrees at Outback come with a choice of sides. Choosing the right sides can help balance the richness of a steak or fried appetizer.
- Homestyle Mashed Potatoes: Whipped with butter and milk for a creamy texture.
- Aussie Fries: Thick-cut fries seasoned with a signature spice blend.
- Baked Potato: Available with butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, and bacon.
- Sweet Potato: Often served with a honey butter and cinnamon sugar topping.
- Fresh Mixed Veggies: Usually a blend of steamed broccoli, squash, and carrots.
You can also upgrade your meal with premium sides like Steakhouse Mac & Cheese or Creamy Spinach for a small surcharge.
Lunch Menu and Special Offers
Outback offers a specific lunch menu that is generally available until 4:00 PM. This menu features smaller portions and lower price points, making it an affordable option for midday dining.
The “Lunch Combos” are particularly popular. You can choose a soup or salad and pair it with a half-sandwich or a small portion of an entree like the Alice Springs Chicken. This allows you to sample multiple flavors without committing to a full dinner-sized plate.
Dietary Accommodations
Outback Steakhouse is well-regarded for its attention to dietary restrictions, particularly for those who require gluten-free options. They offer an extensive Gluten-Free Menu that includes many of their steaks, sides, and even a dessert.
When ordering, it is important to notify your server of any allergies. The kitchen staff is trained to take precautions to avoid cross-contamination. For those watching calories, the menu often highlights “Under 600 Calories” options, such as the 6 oz. Center-Cut Sirloin with a side of fresh seasonal veggies.
How to Save and Order Online
To get the most value out of your visit, consider joining the Aussie Rewards program. This loyalty program allows members to earn points on every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for discounts on future meals.
For those who prefer to eat at home, Outback has a robust online ordering system. You can place an order through their website or mobile app for curbside pickup or delivery. This system allows you to customize your steak temperature and side choices just as you would in the restaurant.
When ordering online, keep an eye out for “Family Bundle” deals. These bundles typically include a large entree, several sides, and a salad, providing a cost-effective way to feed a group of four to six people.
Whether you are looking for a classic steak dinner or a quick lunch, the Outback Steakhouse menu offers a wide variety of flavors and price points. By understanding the different cuts of meat and the available customization options, you can ensure a satisfying meal for every occasion. For more tips on dining out and saving money on your favorite meals, explore our other guides on SearchAndHelp.com.