Outback Steakhouse Watermelon Margarita Recipe

If you’re a fan of unique and refreshing cocktails, Outback Steakhouse’s Watermelon Margarita is gotta be in your hand!

This delicious drink combines watermelon vodka and tequila, creating a balance of sweetness and tartness with each sip.

Make sure to use fresh watermelon puree to enhance all those good natural flavors.

Garnishing with a watermelon wedge not only adds a touch of elegance but also intensifies the flavor as the drink is savored.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Watermelon Margarita

Ingredients

• 2 cups Watermelon (cubed)
• 1 ½ oz Tequila
• ½ oz Triple Sec
• 1 oz Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ oz Simple Syrup
• Lava Rock Salt (for rimming the glass, optional)
• Lime Wedge (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Chill your watermelon cubes in the fridge before starting.

This makes the drink more refreshing.

Step 2:

Place the watermelon cubes in a blender.

Blend them until smooth and liquid.

Step 3:

Strain the watermelon puree through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher.

Discard any solids.

Step 4:

Add tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, and simple syrup to the watermelon juice.

Stir well to combine.

Step 5:

If desired, moisten the rim of your glass with a lime wedge and dip in salt for a salted rim. I love lava rock salt like Outback does!

Pour the watermelon mixture into the glass and add ice.

Step 6:

Garnish with a lime wedge, serve immediately, and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Chill Everything

Keeping not just the watermelon cold but also the glass and other ingredients ensures your margarita stays refreshing longer.

Experiment with Sweetness

If you like sweeter drinks, add extra simple syrup to taste without overpowering the fresh watermelon flavor.

Use a Fine Mesh Strainer

Make sure to use a fine mesh strainer to get a smooth liquid and truly luscious consistency in your cocktail.

What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Watermelon Margarita Recipe

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Add a hint of zest to your evening with some spicy shrimp tacos.

The vibrant flavors of the shrimp perfectly complement the refreshing watermelon margarita.

Use fresh corn tortillas and top them with zesty cabbage slaw, sliced avocados, and a drizzle of lime.

These tacos are sure to be a hit with your guests!

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Grilled pineapple salsa is a unique and tasty choice that pairs wonderfully with your margarita.

The caramelized pineapple cubes mixed with jalapeño peppers, red onion, and a dash of cilantro offer a refreshing kick.

Serve it with taro chips or enjoy it as a topping for grilled chicken.

This salsa adds a fun twist to your meal.

Classic Guacamole

Prepare some classic guacamole to pair with your watermelon margarita.

Creamy avocados mashed with a squeeze of lime, tomatoes, chopped onions, and cilantro make for a delicious dip.

Serve it with tortilla chips to add a crunchy texture.

This traditional side never fails to satisfy.

Mango Jalapeño Skewers

Try mango jalapeño skewers for an innovative side that enhances your cocktail experience!

Sweet and slightly spicy, these skewers are a fusion of freshly cut mangoes and jalapeño slices grilled to perfection.

They are colorful, flavorful, and a delightful contrast to your chilled margarita.

Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy sweet potato fries could be the perfect balance for your fruity cocktail.

Season them with a pinch of sea salt and smoked paprika after baking them to perfection.

Their sweetness and crunchiness mesh well with the watermelon margarita.

They’re both simple and delicious!

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with the classic watermelon margarita by adding a splash of fresh mint for a cool twist.

You can swap the usual blanco tequila with reposado for a richer, deeper flavor.

For a different type of sweetness, replace simple syrup with agave nectar or honey to add a unique profile to your drink.

Adding Fruit

You can add other fruits like pineapple or mango to the blend to give this drink a tropical edge.

Berry lovers might enjoy mixing in a handful of strawberries or raspberries for an extra fruity punch.

Non-Alcoholic Option

Substitute tequila with sparkling water or soda to enjoy an alcohol-free version that still offers the refreshing taste of watermelon.

Spice It Up

Try a tajin rim instead of salt for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness.

You could also add a few jalapeño slices to the shaker if you’re feeling adventurous.

How to Store Leftover Watermelon Margarita

When storing leftover watermelon margaritas, use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Transfer your drink into a clean container with a secure lid, leaving as little air as possible inside.

This minimizes the oxidation process, which helps maintain the taste and quality of the margarita.

Refrigeration Tips

If you plan to enjoy the leftover margarita soon, place it in the refrigerator.

Refrigerated, it can last for about 2-3 days while retaining its refreshing flavor.

Give it a good stir before serving again, as ingredients may separate over time.

Freezing Options

For longer storage, freeze your leftover watermelon margarita in an ice cube tray.

Once frozen, transfer the margarita cubes into a sealed freezer bag.

These cubes make perfect mixers for future drinks and are fun to pop into a glass to keep your beverages cool without diluting them.

Garnish Handling

Consider storing any leftover garnishes separately, like lime wedges or mint leaves.

Wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a small container or bag in the fridge.

This keeps them fresh and vibrant for use in your next round of watermelon margaritas!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Ratios

One of the most frequent mistakes when making a watermelon margarita is getting the ratios wrong.

You want to have the right balance of watermelon, tequila, and sweetener for a refreshing taste.

Consider using fresh watermelon instead of pre-packaged juice for a more authentic flavor.

Skipping the Salt Rim

Don’t skip the salt rim—it adds a wonderful contrast to the sweet and tangy flavors. Again, I like to use lava rock salt!

Make sure your margarita glass rim is slightly wet before dipping it into the salt.

Using Low-Quality Ingredients

Using low-quality tequila or watermelon can really affect the end result.

I always recommend picking a decent tequila and the freshest watermelon you can find.

It might seem minor, but these choices can make a huge difference in taste!