There’s something undeniably satisfying about a crisp Caesar salad topped with a creamy, flavorful dressing. If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you know their Caesar salad dressing is a true standout. Now, you can recreate this delicious dressing right in your kitchen with our Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe (Perfect Copycat!). This recipe combines simple ingredients to give you that restaurant-quality flavor that will elevate any salad. Let’s dive into the details!

Why This Recipe Works

This Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe (Perfect Copycat!) works so well because it balances rich, savory flavors with a hint of acidity. The mayonnaise forms a creamy base, while the anchovy paste and garlic provide depth. The lemon juice adds brightness, and the Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, salty element. All these components come together to create a dressing that is both indulgent and refreshing, perfect for drizzling over crisp romaine lettuce or using as a dip.

The Essentials

To make this delicious dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that gives the dressing its luscious texture.
1/4 cup egg substitute: This adds richness without the need for raw eggs.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that classic savory flavor.
2 tablespoons water: To thin out the dressing to your desired consistency.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a nice richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides acidity and brightness.
1 tablespoon anchovy paste: Gives depth and umami flavor.
2 teaspoons chopped garlic: For a punch of flavor.
2 teaspoons sugar: Balances the acidity with a hint of sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper: Adds a little kick.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
1/4 teaspoon crushed dried parsley: For a touch of herbal freshness.

Appliances & Accessories

Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring your ingredients.
Whisk or electric mixer: Use to combine the ingredients smoothly.
Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl will work perfectly for this recipe.
Storage container: An airtight container is ideal for storing any leftover dressing.

Make Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe (Perfect Copycat!): A Simple Method

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and efficient preparation process.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of egg substitute. Whisk these two together until they are fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Elements

To the mayonnaise mixture, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of anchovy paste, and 2 teaspoons of chopped garlic. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Next, add 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of water to the bowl. Continue whisking until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a bit more water.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Finally, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of coarsely ground pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed dried parsley. Whisk again until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice for acidity or more Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor, cover the dressing and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Seasonal Adaptations

Summer: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
Fall: Mix in a hint of pumpkin puree for a seasonal flavor boost.
Winter: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for warmth.
Spring: Use fresh lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

Author’s Commentary

This Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe (Perfect Copycat!) is one of my favorite homemade dressings. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also allows me to control the ingredients, ensuring I’m using quality components without any preservatives. The depth of flavor is astounding, and I always prefer making my dressings at home. They’re fresher, tastier, and you can tweak them to fit your palate perfectly. Trust me, once you make this dressing, you’ll never want store-bought again!

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about one week. There’s no need to reheat this dressing; simply give it a good shake or stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients. If it thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a little water to loosen it up again.

FAQ

Can I use regular eggs instead of an egg substitute?

Yes, if you prefer, you can use 1/4 cup of mayonnaise mixed with one raw egg yolk instead of the egg substitute. However, ensure you’re comfortable with using raw eggs.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to anchovy paste?

Absolutely! You can substitute the anchovy paste with a vegan Worcestershire sauce or simply omit it for a vegetarian version. The dressing will still be delicious!

Can I make this dressing in advance?

Yes! This dressing can be made a few days ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together.

How can I use this dressing aside from salads?

This dressing is not just for salads! It makes a fantastic dip for veggies, a spread for sandwiches, or even a flavorful topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the complete guide to making the Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe (Perfect Copycat!), it’s time to get in the kitchen and whip up this delightful dressing. Imagine the freshness and flavor it will bring to your salads, enhancing your meals and impressing your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with little tweaks to suit your taste. Enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness that only a homemade dressing can provide!