Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing Recipe

Hey, Welcome to the Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing Recipe. Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet salad dressing loved for its smooth texture.

I still remember pouring this dressing over a crisp salad at Outback Steakhouse and thinking, Why does this taste so balanced? Have you felt that too?

If you enjoy restaurant-style dressings at home, you and I are on the same page. Let me show you how I make it easily in my own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American
Category: Side Dish

History and Origin

Thousand Island dressing originated in the United States near the Thousand Islands region. Over time, American restaurants created their own versions.

Outback Steakhouse adapted it to match their bold flavors, keeping it creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly tangy for salads and burgers.

What does Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing taste like?

This dressing tastes creamy, mildly sweet, and lightly tangy. You will notice a smooth mayo base with gentle vinegar notes.

It is not overpowering. That balance is why it works so well with fresh greens and grilled dishes.

By the way, you can also try the Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion Recipe.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to start making it:

Ingredient	Quantity
Mayonnaise	½ cup
Ketchup	3 tablespoons
Sweet pickle relish	2 tablespoons
White vinegar	1 teaspoon
Sugar	1 teaspoon
Paprika	¼ teaspoon
Onion powder	¼ teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

Equipment Needed

Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your recipe:

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or spoon
• Airtight container

How to make Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing

Step 1: Add the base ingredients

I start by adding mayonnaise and ketchup to a mixing bowl. I whisk them gently until smooth.

Step 2: Mix in flavor boosters

Next, I add sweet pickle relish, vinegar, and sugar. This is where the signature taste starts forming.

Step 3: Season the dressing

I sprinkle in paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Then I mix everything well.

Step 4: Taste and adjust

I always taste the dressing. Sometimes I add a pinch more sugar or vinegar, depending on my mood.

Step 5: Chill before serving

I cover the bowl and chill it for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.

Recipe Card

Nutritional Information

Below, I have listed the nutritional information of this recipe:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	140 kcal
Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	4 g
Sugar	3 g
Protein	1 g
Sodium	180 mg

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this dressing over crisp iceberg or romaine lettuce. You can also drizzle it on burgers or sandwiches.

It works great as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings. If you enjoy steakhouse-style meals at home, this dressing fits right in.

Storage Tips

I store this dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 5 days. Always use a clean spoon when serving. If it thickens slightly, just stir it well before using.

Why This Dressing Tastes Like Outback Steakhouse

I believe the real magic comes from the balance of creamy mayo, sweet relish, and tangy vinegar. None of the flavors overpower each other.

That balance is exactly what makes Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing feel restaurant-perfect every time you taste it.

Best Salads to Pair With This Dressing

I love using this dressing on iceberg, romaine, or mixed greens with tomatoes and onions. You can even add grilled chicken or shrimp.

If you enjoy hearty salads like those served at steakhouses, this dressing fits right in.

Can You Use This Dressing on Burgers and Sandwiches?

Yes, and honestly, this is one of my favorite ways to use it. I often spread it on burgers, sliders, or deli sandwiches.

It adds creaminess and a mild tang that instantly upgrades simple sandwiches at home.

How This Dressing Compares to Store-Bought Versions

Store-bought Thousand Island dressings often taste too sweet or artificial to me. When I make it at home, I control every ingredient.

You get fresher flavor, better texture, and no unnecessary preservatives.

Tips to Adjust the Sweetness and Tang

Sometimes you may want it sweeter or more tangy, and that is okay. I usually add sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tang in small pinches.

I always suggest tasting as you go, just like chefs do in restaurants.

Is This Dressing Kid-Friendly?

Yes, kids usually love this dressing because it is mild and creamy. I often serve it with veggie sticks or fries.

If you cook for family, this is a safe and popular option that everyone can enjoy.

Make It Part of a Steakhouse-Style Meal at Home

Whenever I plan a steakhouse-style dinner, I include this dressing. It pairs beautifully with steaks, grilled chicken, and classic sides.

You can recreate that full Outback Steakhouse experience right in your own kitchen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Thousand Island Dressing

One mistake I see often is adding too much vinegar at once. Another is skipping the chilling step.

Giving the dressing time to rest helps flavors blend properly, so it tastes smooth and balanced when served.

Conclusion

This Outback Steakhouse Thousand Island Dressing Recipe is simple, quick, and full of classic flavor. I love how it turns everyday salads into restaurant-style dishes. If you enjoy creamy dressings, you should definitely try this at home.

With these lines, we come to the end of the article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!

Happy Cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You will also like the Outback Steakhouse Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe.