Outback Steakhouse Ahi Tuna Recipe

Outback’s seared ahi tuna is all about that crisp crust and melt-in-your-mouth center!

Getting the right sear means starting with a blazing-hot pan and a quick cook time—just 30 seconds per side.

A good sesame seed crust gives it a nutty crunch that pairs so well with the fresh, buttery texture of the tuna.

The dipping sauce brings everything together, and the key is a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and just a hint of wasabi for some kick.

This dish is one of my favorites because it has that restaurant-quality but takes hardly any time to put together!

How to Make Outback Steakhouse’s Ahi Tuna

Ingredients

• 2 Tuna Steaks
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Ginger (grated)
• 2 Green Onions (sliced)
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 2 tbsp Mustard Paste
• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Bagel Seasoning (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix soy sauce, honey, mustard paste, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.

This will be your marinade.

Step 2:

Place the tuna steaks in the bowl, ensuring they’re coated.

Let them marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 3:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add green onions for a brief sauté.

Step 4:

Place the tuna steaks on the skillet.

Sear each side for no more than 45 seconds.

This method keeps the center raw.

Step 5:

Sprinkle bagel seasoning generously over the tuna to finish.

It adds a flavorful crunch.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing Fresh Tuna:

Always look for sushi-grade tuna for the best results; it’s safe for consumption in raw preparations.

Marinating Time Matters:

Don’t marinate your tuna for too long, as it can become overwhelming.

Thirty minutes is usually perfect.

Searing Technique:

Make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the tuna.

This helps to achieve the perfect sear on each side while keeping the insides raw.

Taste and Seasoning:

Taste as you go and adjust if you feel it needs more salt or seasoning.

Everyone’s taste preference is different!

Alternative to Bagel Seasoning:

If you can’t find bagel seasoning, sesame seeds mixed with a bit of salt make a great alternative.

What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Ahi Tuna Recipe

Lemon Drizzle and Potato Salad

You can never go wrong with a lemon drizzle and fresh potato salad.

The acidity of the lemon complements the rich flavor of ahi tuna beautifully.

It’s simple yet adds a refreshing twist.

Niçoise Salad

For something classic, a Niçoise salad works wonders with ahi tuna.

It’s full of fresh veggies, olives, and a hard-boiled egg.

This is a versatile option that can make any meal special.

Asparagus with Mushrooms

Another great option is asparagus sautéed with mushrooms.

The earthy flavor pairs well and adds depth to the meal.

This combination brings out the natural taste of the tuna.

Sesame Green Beans

For something a bit out of the ordinary, try green beans sautéed in sesame oil.

They add a nutty flavor and a wonderful crunch.

This makes every bite a little more exciting.

Ginger Soy Dressing

Include a ginger soy dressing for dipping.

It’s simple to make and enhances the flavors of the dish.

This is a wonderful complement if you’re looking for something light and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

Tweak the Crust

You can switch up the crust by using sesame seeds in place of traditional herbs.

It gives the tuna a fantastic crunch with each bite, making it a fun variation to try!

For a spicy kick, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Change the Dip

Instead of a ginger soy dipping sauce, try creating a wasabi mayo.

Mix wasabi paste with mayonnaise for a creamy and spicy alternative sauce.

For those who like a little sweetness, honey mustard can be an exciting choice.

Ingredient Swaps

If you’re looking for a different acidity, try using rice vinegar instead of lemon juice.

You can also omit honey in the sauce for a sugar-free substitute if that’s more your style.

Another great option is to add a splash of lime juice for a citrusy twist!

How to Store Leftover Outback Steakhouse Ahi Tuna

Storage Temperature

Keep your leftover Ahi tuna fresh by storing it in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

It should be maintained at a temperature of 40°F or below to ensure it stays safe to eat.

Storage Containers

Use airtight containers or tightly sealed plastic wrap to store your Ahi tuna.

This helps prevent odors from the fridge affecting your tuna and keeps it moist and flavorful.

Timeframe for Storage

Consume the stored Ahi tuna within two days to enjoy it at its best quality.

If you don’t think you’ll get to it in time, consider freezing it for longer storage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Tuna

One common mistake when preparing ahi tuna is cooking it for too long.

You want a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside raw or rare.

An overcooked ahi tuna steak can become dry and lose its buttery texture.

Keep your steak thick enough to prevent it from cooking too quickly.

Improper Refrigeration

Always keep your tuna steaks refrigerated from the time you purchase them until you are ready to cook.

This helps maintain freshness and keeps the fish safe to eat.

Don’t let the tuna sit out at room temperature for too long before cooking.

Over-Seasoning

Another mistake is using too much seasoning, which can overwhelm the delicate flavor of the tuna.

Ahi tuna doesn’t need a lot of seasoning to taste amazing.

Stick to simple flavors like salt, pepper, and maybe a touch of lemon or soy sauce.

Less is often more with this stellar fish!