Texas Roadhouse Cactus Blossom Review

Sometimes it’s nice to break from the norm and do something a little crazy. You know- like ordering a wacky appetizer or side dish instead of French fries or veggies, and dipping it in a tangy-spicy sauce. Go a little further by ordering your crazy appetizer at a restaurant that encourages you to throw thousands of peanut shells all over the floor. I’m talking about the Cactus Blossom appetizer from Texas Roadhouse – a delicious snack in a fun environment.

History and Inspiration

Texas Roadhouse was inspired to offer the Cactus Blossom after it saw the success of the Bloomin’ Onion at Outback Steakhouse. It might seem like a copycat version, but Texas Roadhouse’s appetizer has a few differences. It’s less expensive, even though it’s “Texas-sized”. And the sauce is a tangy-spicy Cajun Horseradish sauce, whereas Outback’s Bloomin’ Onion is served with a spicy ranch dressing. It does make me laugh that the names are so similar, but potatoes, po-tah-toes. 

Types of Cactus Blossom

The Cactus Blossom is made in one way. While there are no variations, sometimes it’s nice to depend on something being consistent every single time you order it. You could switch it up by changing the Cajun Horseradish sauce for any of the other available dressings: Ranch, Low-Fat Ranch, Italian, Bleu Cheese, Honey French, Honey Mustard or even Thousand Island.

Cactus Blossom Review

The Texas Roadhouse Onion Blossom recipe features a whole onion sliced down into separate petals. It’s then coated in a seasoned batter and deep-fried. Once it’s cooked, the dish looks like a blossoming flower, exposing each of the crispy petals. The sauce is placed in a small bowl in the center, and voila- a blooming (or blossoming, in this case) cactus flower.  

1.      Taste and Texture [5/5]

I’m a big fan of onions – all onions, prepared any way, and placed on (almost) any dish. I grew up eating onion rings as snacks, while the other kids ate candies and french fries, so when I first heard about this dish – first via Outback, later via Texas Roadhouse- I was all in. The Cactus Blossom at Texas Roadhouse is quite tasty. The onions are fresh with just the right amount of bite- not too slimy and slithery like some fried onion snacks are. The breading is perfectly seasoned and peppered- not spicy, just flavorful, and it’s golden and crispy, just like you want it. I don’t care for soggy breading, and this breading doesn’t disappoint. The spicy Cajun Horseradish sauce has just the right amount of spice and tang, making this the perfect appetizer. It’s a must -order at Texas Roadhouse.

2. Are they healthy? [2/5]

This is the downside of the Cactus Blossom – it’s not healthy at all. With 1,700 calories per serving, it’s hardly worth almost an entire day’s worth of calories for just an appetizer. Or is it? Maybe it’s a great option for a cheat day, or maybe you can share it with a friend. On the other hand, if you do eat one by yourself, you might not need to order a meal because you’ll be full. But eating this alone without healthier food means you’ll be lacking nutrients, so definitely weigh priorities here. Also, even though this dish is made with onion and breading, make a note that it’s not a vegan option because buttermilk is included in the batter.

3. Are they Worth it? [4/5]

I remember eating the Cactus Blossom throughout my college years when a group wanted to go out to a restaurant, but I didn’t have a lot of money for “fancy dining” in those days. A friend and I could split a meal and appetizer easily. Factor in the complimentary peanuts and basket of homemade rolls, and I’d be set. The Cactus Blossom only costs $5.99 so even if you order a full meal, this is a delicious inexpensive option. If you’re looking to just enjoy a nice filling snack or appetizer, again it’s a great choice. If you’re watching your caloric intake or you’re on a diet, you might want to skip it and choose a healthier appetizer, like the Grilled Shrimp (only 240 calories). 

Final Verdict

Being as big of an onion fan as I am, the Cactus Blossom gets a big thumbs up from me. The size is perfect for a table full of people people. The price is fair, the environment is fun and friendly, and every other menu item at Texas Roadhouse is a winner, so you can’t go wrong. 

Cactus Blossom Nutrition Facts 

• Calories 1700
• Total Fat 89 g
• Saturated Fat 17 g
• Trans Fat 2.5 g
• Cholesterol 5 mg
• Sodium 5260 mg
• Total Carbohydrates 202 g 
• Dietary Fiber 13 g
• Sugars 26 g
  Protein 27 g

Cactus Blossom Pricing

The Cactus Blossom is priced at $5.99 each. This is an excellent price, compared to Outback Steakhouse’s Bloomin’ Onion, which is $8.99. To be fair, Outback’s version might be a bit bigger, but in my opinion, it’s not worth the extra $3. I also prefer the sauce served with Texas Roadhouse’s Cactus Blossom, as well as the rolls and peanuts which are both complimentary with your meal. 

What do you think?

Have you been eating Texas Roadhouse’s Cactus Blossom since college as I have? How does it compare to the Bloomin’ Onion? If you haven’t tried it yet, do yourself a favor and enjoy it.

Let us know what you think in the comments below.