As the chilly breeze begins to whisper in, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a bowl of hearty soup. On one of those particularly cozy evenings, I found myself craving the famed Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup. The rich, creamy texture paired with crispy bacon and gooey cheese felt like a hug in a bowl.
After a quick rummage through my pantry and a few fresh ingredients, I realized I could recreate that beloved taste right at home. What I love about this recipe is its delightful simplicity—it’s just as satisfying as the restaurant version but crafted with love in your kitchen. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes! So, whether you’re gathering friends for a casual dinner or simply treating yourself after a long day, join me in whipping up this scrumptious comfort food that promises to bring warmth to your table and smiles to faces. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy Outback Potato Soup recipe!
Why is Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup a must-try?
Warmth in a bowl: This recipe delivers a cozy experience, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: With just 36 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a hearty meal in no time.
Flavor-packed goodness: The rich combination of butter, cream, and bacon offers irresistible taste.
Customizable options: Feel free to tweak toppings or spice levels to suit your preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s the ideal dish for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Everyone will be asking for seconds, so why not check out more warm delights with our cozy soup collection?
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Russet or Golden Potatoes – 4 large potatoes provide the perfect creamy texture and hearty base for the soup.
• Chicken Stock – 2 1/2 cups enhance the flavor, making every spoonful rich and savory.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – 3/4 cup contributes to the luscious creaminess that resembles the restaurant’s famous soup.
• Butter – 1/2 cup adds depth and richness to the flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1/3 cup creates a roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
For the Toppings
• Bacon – 8 slices of cooked bacon crumbled on top add a delightful crunch and savory bite.
• Cheddar Cheese – 3/4 cup (plus more for topping, if desired) gives that gooey, comforting element that everyone loves.
• Green Onion – 1/4 cup, diced, provides a fresh, vibrant crunch as a finishing touch.
For Seasoning
• Yellow Onion – 1/2 sweet yellow onion (optional) brings an aromatic sweetness to the mix.
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon enhances and balances the flavors of the soup.
• Ground Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon adds a hint of warmth and spice to every bowl.
• Water – Enough to cover the potatoes for boiling, ensuring they’re perfectly tender.
Get ready to enjoy this scrumptious Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup that’s sure to bring comfort to your dining table!
How to Make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
- Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. This will ensure they’re soft and easy to incorporate into your soup.
- Combine in a large pot the chicken stock, diced onions, salt, pepper, and cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of flour until a smooth paste forms, cooking for 2 minutes to create a light roux.
- Incorporate the roux into the simmering broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. This thickens your soup to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Pour in approximately 3/4 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently until well combined and luxuriously creamy.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep everything blended and warm. Your kitchen should smell cozy and inviting!
- Add the tender diced potatoes to the soup and stir to distribute them evenly throughout. This is where your hearty meal begins to take shape.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, crispy bacon bits, and finely chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the delight!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of paprika for an earthy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
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Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if it thickens too much.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir in fresh toppings after heating.
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Reheating: Warm the soup on low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can add more cream or broth for a smoother consistency when reheating your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup.
What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Imagine a beautifully set dinner table, where warmth and flavor take center stage, perfectly complementing your delicious soup.
- Crusty Bread: The crunchy exterior and soft interior of a fresh baguette make for a delightful pairing, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garden Salad: A light, vibrant salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette balances the rich soup, adding a refreshing lift to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious crunch while its mild flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy potato soup, creating a vibrant plate.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: An ooey-gooey grilled cheese on the side is a nostalgic choice, its melty goodness enhancing each spoonful of your hearty soup.
- Savory Chicken Skewers: Tender, seasoned chicken skewers bring a protein-packed contrast to the richness of the soup, making the meal more satisfying.
- Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp for dessert rounds off your meal nicely, transitioning from savory to sweet while celebrating the flavors of the season.
- Red Wine: A glass of merlot adds a sophisticated touch, with its fruity notes complementing the rich, savory profile of the soup for a complete dining experience.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of herb-infused olive oil over the soup just before serving enhances the flavors with a fragrant finish.
Expert Tips for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, ensuring your soup is creamy. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they may not break down properly.
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Perfect the Roux: Cook the flour and butter until bubbly but not browned. This ensures your soup has that velvety consistency without a raw flour taste.
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Simmer Slowly: Give the soup ample time to simmer after adding the heavy cream. This melds the flavors beautifully, enhancing the savory profile of your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup.
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Texture Matters: For a chunkier bite, reserve some diced potatoes to add back after the soup is thickened. This way, you will enjoy both creamy and hearty textures.
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Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the toppings! Extra cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions elevate your dish and create a heartwarming visual appeal.
Make Ahead Options
Making the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup ahead of time is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can dice the potatoes and boil them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked potatoes in an airtight container until you’re ready to make the soup. The broth can also be prepared 1-2 days ahead; just store it in the fridge and reheat gently when you’re ready to finish the recipe. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simmer the broth, whisk in the roux, and add the refrigerated potatoes. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as when it’s freshly made!
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to tweak this comforting recipe to match your taste and dietary preferences!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy touch that’s plant-based friendly.
- Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or a smoke-flavored tempeh for a lighter option with a satisfying crunch.
- Flavor Boost: Add sautéed garlic and thyme to the simmering broth for an aromatic depth that will surprise your senses.
- Extra Heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to crank up the spice and awaken those taste buds.
- Vegetable Twist: Mix in chopped carrots and celery as the broth simmers, creating delightful texture and a colorful medley.
- Cheddar Swap: Try a different cheese like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor and creaminess.
- Herby Freshness: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and a fresh taste that takes it over the top!
- Chili Style: Top with a dollop of sour cream and serve alongside cornbread for a perfect pairing that feels like a warm hug.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using russet or golden potatoes for their starchy texture, which creates that desired creamy consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t break down well in the soup.
How should I store leftover Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently, either on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of cream or water to achieve that luscious texture again.
Can I freeze Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this comforting soup! Pour it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, and consider adding some fresh cream for that velvety texture.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, just whisk in a bit of warm chicken stock or cream until you reach the desired consistency. It’s all about that creamy, comforting feel that everyone craves!
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Indeed! This recipe contains dairy (cream and cheese) and bacon, so if you’re cooking for anyone with dietary restrictions, consider using lactose-free cream or substituting the bacon with a veggie alternative. For vegans, you can use plant-based cream and stock.
What’s the best way to know when my potatoes are ready?
Keep an eye out! Boil the diced potatoes until they are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork, which typically takes about 15 minutes. They’ll break down beautifully in the soup, adding to that exquisite creamy texture.
Creamy Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup You Can Whip Up Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Combine in a large pot chicken stock, diced onions, salt, pepper, and cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 20 minutes.
- Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of flour until a smooth paste forms, cooking for 2 minutes to create a light roux.
- Incorporate the roux into the simmering broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Pour in approximately 3/4 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently until well combined.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the tender diced potatoes to the soup and stir to distribute them evenly throughout.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with cheese, bacon, and green onions.