Recreating the Outback Special: A Culinary Journey

There’s something undeniably comforting about the sizzle of a perfectly grilled steak. My first encounter with the Outback Special was years ago, a welcome treat after a long week of culinary school. The aroma alone, a symphony of smoky spices and searing beef, transported me. It was more than just dinner; it was an experience, a simple pleasure perfectly executed, and a taste I’ve been chasing ever since. Now, let’s bring that Outback magic home.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: High-Protein

Ingredients

• 2 sirloin steaks, well trimmed, boneless, 1 1/4 inch thick

Spice Rub

• 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cumin

Equipment Needed

• Outdoor grill, stovetop grill pan, or broiler

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your chosen cooking method. If using an outdoor grill, heat it to a medium-high heat. For a stovetop grill pan, ensure it is well-heated before adding the steak. If broiling, position the rack so the steaks are about 4-6 inches from the broiler.

2. Prepare the spice rub. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning, 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder, and 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cumin. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This spice rub is what gives the Outback Special its signature flavor.

3. Generously rub the spice mixture onto both sides of each steak. Ensure the steaks are evenly coated, pressing the rub into the surface of the meat. This step is crucial for developing a flavorful crust during cooking.

4. Grill or broil the steaks for 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and the intensity of the heat source. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). If you prefer a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly:

   • Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
   • Medium-Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
   • Well-Done: 155°F (68°C) and above.

5. Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill or broiler and transfer them to plates. It is important to let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent the steaks loosely with foil while they rest to help retain heat.

6. After the resting period, serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice Rub Enhancement: For an even deeper flavor profile, consider toasting the spices (except for the brown sugar) in a dry pan over medium heat for a minute or two before grinding them together. Watch carefully to prevent burning. This intensifies their aroma and taste.

• Achieving a Perfect Sear: Ensure your grill or pan is extremely hot before adding the steaks. This creates a beautiful sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. A cast iron skillet works exceptionally well for achieving a restaurant-quality sear on a stovetop.

• Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting period! It’s crucial for tenderizing the steak. If you cut into it immediately, all the juices will run out, leaving you with a drier result.

• Even Cooking: If using a grill, try to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.

• Flavor Infusion: For an extra burst of flavor, add a pat of compound butter (herb butter) on top of the steak immediately after removing it from the grill. The butter will melt and infuse the steak with delicious flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The Outback Special is delicious served with classic steakhouse sides such as baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a truly authentic experience, consider pairing it with Outback Steakhouse’s signature Honey Wheat Bread.

Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave. Be careful not to overcook the steak during reheating, as this can make it dry. Slicing the steak thinly against the grain before reheating can help retain moisture. You can also use leftover steak in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	625.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	348 g	28%
Total Fat	38.65 g	59%
Saturated Fat	15.6 g	78%
Cholesterol	228 mg	76%
Sodium	159.5 mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	3.7 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.05 g	0%
Sugars	3.35 g	13%
Protein	61.8 g	124%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Old Bay Seasoning to control the spiciness of the rub. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount by half. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub.

• Steak Cut: While sirloin is the traditional choice for the Outback Special, you can substitute it with other steak cuts such as ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and type of steak.

• Sugar Substitute: If you are watching your sugar intake, you can substitute the light brown sugar with a sugar-free brown sugar alternative or omit it entirely.

• Gluten-Free: Old Bay seasoning does contain gluten. To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free version of Old Bay or create your own spice blend using individual spices.

• Marinade: For an even more flavorful steak, marinate the steaks in the spice rub for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different spice blend if I don’t have Old Bay Seasoning?
A: Absolutely! You can create your own spice blend using paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and other spices to mimic the flavor of Old Bay.

Q: How do I know when the steak is done?
A: The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bone. Refer to the internal temperature guidelines mentioned above for your desired level of doneness.

Q: Can I cook the steak in the oven?
A: Yes, you can cook the steak in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Sear the steak in a hot skillet on the stovetop for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.

Q: How do I prevent the steak from sticking to the grill?
A: Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before adding the steak. You can also lightly oil the steak itself before placing it on the grill.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover steak without drying it out?
A: The best way to reheat steak is low and slow. Wrap the steak tightly in foil with a little bit of beef broth and reheat in a 300F oven until just warmed through.

Final Thoughts

Recreating the Outback Special at home is easier than you might think! With a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice combinations and cooking methods to find what works best for you. And most importantly, have fun with it! This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to add your own personal touch. Share your creations with friends and family, and let them experience the magic of the Outback Special.