Outback Steakhouse’s Au Jus is a recipe that truly brings out the best in any beef dish.
The secret to their sauce is starting with a robust beef broth that acts as a flavorful base.
A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a nice umami flavor that enhances the overall taste significantly.
It’s especially good with prime rib or a hearty roast beef sandwich, adding a luxurious touch.
Don’t forget to strain the sauce for a silky smooth finish that everyone will appreciate.
Trust me, once you try this au jus, you’ll want to make it every time you have beef!
How to Make Outback’s Au Jus
Ingredients
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 sprig Fresh Thyme
- 1 Bay Leaf
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 2:
Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine with the garlic and butter.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3:
Add Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and the bay leaf.
Let it continue to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 4:
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully strain the liquid into a bowl to remove solids like thyme and bay leaf.
Step 5:
Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Serve warm alongside your preferred beef dishes.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Using fresh garlic and herbs will give your au jus a fresher and more vibrant taste compared to dried options.
Monitor the Simmer:
Keep an eye on your saucepan to maintain a gentle simmer, preventing the flavors from becoming too concentrated or evaporating.
Taste as You Go:
Remember that seasoning is always subjective, so taste the au jus before serving to adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Pair with Beef:
This au jus sauce complements beef dishes exceptionally well, but feel free to try it with lamb or chicken for a different taste sensation.
Consider Optional Additions:
A splash of red wine can add depth to the sauce, though it’s entirely optional depending on your preference.
What to Serve with Outback Au Jus Recipe
Classic Roast Beef
You can’t go wrong with serving roast beef alongside your au jus.
This classic pairing creates a combination that enhances the rich, savory flavors of the beef.
Thinly slice the roast beef to soak in the goodness of the jus!
Mashed Potatoes
Who doesn’t love a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes next to a savory sauce?
The fluffy texture of the potatoes beautifully complements the thin, flavorful au jus.
Serve them warm, allowing for a comforting, hearty bite every time.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach offers a creamy, flavorful contrast to the lightness of the au jus.
This side is rich in flavor and pairs well with the robust notes of the sauce.
Remember to keep the spinach creamy and well-seasoned!
Grilled Asparagus
For a twist, try serving grilled asparagus with your dish.
The smoky, charred notes of the asparagus offer a unique depth of flavor.
It’s a fresh and vibrant option that’s quick to prepare.
Caramelized Onions
Add caramelized onions to the mix for a sweet and savory twist.
These onions bring a luscious, golden richness that pairs surprisingly well with au jus.
Cook them slowly to bring out their natural sweetness!
Garlic Bread
Don’t forget a side of garlic bread to round out the flavors.
The crunchy texture and buttery notes provide a satisfying contrast to the au jus.
Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate!
Variations and Substitutions
Alternative Ingredients
For a gluten-free option, you can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder.
It thickens the au jus nicely while being gentle on the stomach.
If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deep umami note.
Using Vegetable Broth
Vegetarians, rejoice!
You can replace beef broth with vegetable broth to create a delicious alternative.
Add a bit of soy sauce or miso paste to enhance the depth typically provided by beef.
Reducing Sodium
Watching your salt intake?
Use a low-sodium beef broth and skip the salt in the recipe itself.
Enhance the natural flavors with herbs like thyme and rosemary instead.
Each little tweak can drastically change the flavor profile, making this an adaptable dish! Enjoy experimenting with your own creations!
How to Store Leftover Outback Au Jus
Storing leftover Outback au jus isn’t complicated, and proper storage can keep it tasting fresh.
After making your au jus, let it cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation.
Refrigerator Storage
Pour the cooled au jus into an airtight container for short-term storage.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
Freezer Storage
To extend the life of your au jus, freezing is a great option.
Pour it into a freezer-safe container or use an ice cube tray for easy portioning.
Au jus can be frozen for two to three months.
Label and Date
Always label your containers with the name and date stored.
Knowing when you put it away helps track freshness and ensures it isn’t stored too long.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Roux
When making au jus, you don’t want to skip the roux, which acts as a thickening agent.
Without it, your sauce may turn out thin and less flavorful.
Always mix the flour and beef drippings thoroughly while they cook to get it just right!
Neglecting Fat Skimming
Be sure to skim excess fat from the beef drippings.
Excessive fat can make your au jus taste greasy and heavy.
I recommend using a spoon to skim the fat off the top before proceeding.
Overlooking Seasoning Adjustments
Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning.
Flavor balance is key, so season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Your tastebuds will thank you!

Outback Au Jus Recipe
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1 sprig Fresh Thyme
- 1 Bay Leaf
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine with the garlic and butter.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and the bay leaf.
- Let it continue to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully strain the liquid into a bowl to remove solids like thyme and bay leaf.
- Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve warm alongside your preferred beef dishes.
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