Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

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Introduction

Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and hearty comfort food that brings the flavors of the popular restauranOutback Steakhouse Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and hearty comfort food that brings the flavors of the popular restaurant’s signature soup right into your kitchen. Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, savory cheese, and a hint of spices, this soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner at home, and the smell of that creamy, bacon-infused soup was absolutely mouthwatering. The blend of textures and flavors—from the softness of the potatoes to the crunch of bacon—makes every spoonful feel indulgent. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

What’s great about this soup is how comforting it feels without being too heavy, and it’s so easy to customize. You can add more cheese, sour cream, or even extra crispy bacon on top for an extra indulgent touch. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of velvety, flavorful goodness that will bring warmth to your heart and your stomach!

Perfect for:

  • Cozy weeknight dinners
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Entertaining guests
  • Meal prepping for the week
  • Fans of loaded potato flavors

Why You’ll Love This Outback Steakhouse Potato Sou

Here’s why Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup will win you over:

  • Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of potatoes, cream, and cheese creates a luscious, velvety soup.
  • Savory and Flavorful: Bacon, cheddar, and seasonings ensure every spoonful is packed with deliciousness.
  • Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
  • Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good potato soup, making this recipe a hit for all ages.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup:

  • 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 medium onion (finely diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for garnish)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes break down beautifully during cooking, creating a thick and creamy texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides a flavorful base for the soup, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.
  • Heavy Cream and Sour Cream: These add a luxurious creaminess and tangy depth to the soup.
  • Bacon and Cheddar Cheese: Essential for achieving the classic “loaded potato” flavor.
  • Flour and Butter: These form a roux that thickens the soup to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup:

Prepare the Base:

  1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  3. Make the Roux: Melt the butter in the pot with the onion and garlic. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a roux.

Build the Soup:

  1. Add the Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  2. Cook the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  3. Mash the Potatoes (Optional): For a creamier texture, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes while leaving some chunks for texture.

Finish with Cream and Cheese:

  1. Stir in the Cream and Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until fully incorporated.
  2. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Serve and Top: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Serve hot.

How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

  • As a Main Dish: Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
  • As a Starter: Serve smaller portions as a hearty appetizer before the main course.
  • For Meal Prep: Store in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
  • With Toppings: Let guests customize their bowls with toppings like extra bacon, cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce.

Additional Tips for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup turns out perfectly:

  • Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best as they break down easily, creating a thick and creamy soup.
  • Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Simmer just until tender to avoid a gummy texture.
  • For a Thicker Soup: Mash more of the potatoes or simmer the soup longer to reduce liquid.
  • For a Smoother Texture: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup for a silky consistency.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheese for better melting and flavor; pre-shredded cheese can be less creamy.

Recipe Variations for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup:

  1. Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add toppings like sour cream, extra bacon, and green onions to mimic a loaded baked potato.
  2. Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup: Stir in steamed broccoli florets and additional cheddar cheese for a veggie-packed version.
  3. Cajun Potato Soup: Add Cajun seasoning and diced andouille sausage for a spicy twist.
  4. Chicken Potato Soup: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken for added protein and heartiness.
  5. Vegetarian Potato Soup: Use vegetable broth and omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  6. Creamy Cauliflower Potato Soup: Replace half of the potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
  7. Ham and Potato Soup: Swap the bacon for diced ham for a smoky, savory flavor.
  8. Southwest Potato Soup: Add diced green chiles, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Tex-Mex flair.
  9. Gouda and Potato Soup: Replace cheddar with smoked Gouda for a rich and smoky taste.
  10. Truffle Potato Soup: Drizzle with truffle oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an elevated, gourmet version.

Freezing and Storage for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

  • Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Special Equipment for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

Here are some helpful tools to make preparing your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup easier:

  • Dutch Oven or Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for making soups.
  • Immersion Blender: For blending the soup to your desired consistency.
  • Potato Masher: Perfect for lightly mashing potatoes while maintaining some texture.
  • Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Soup Ladle: Makes serving the soup a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

  1. Can I use milk instead of cream?
    Yes, but the soup will be less rich. To maintain creaminess, use whole milk or a mix of milk and half-and-half.
  2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
    Absolutely! Replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
  3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
    Yes! This soup reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or entertaining.
  4. What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
    Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
    Of course! Carrots, celery, or leeks can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. With creamy, tender potatoes simmered in a rich, velvety broth, this soup is packed with smoky bacon and melted cheddar cheese, creating a flavor combination that’s both hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re making it to replicate a beloved restaurant classic or simply to warm up on a chilly day, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

Top it with green onions, extra cheese, or crispy bacon for added texture and flavor, and serve it with a side of crusty bread for the perfect meal. Whether you’re sharing it with family or keeping it all to yourself, this soup is bound to bring comfort with every spoonful.

I’d love to see how your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!