There’s something magical about a bowl of warm, creamy potato soup, and this recipe captures all the indulgent flavors of Outback Steakhouse’s iconic dish. With tender potatoes, a luxuriously rich broth, and irresistible toppings like cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, this soup is pure comfort in every bite. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a heartwarming meal, this soup is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re recreating the flavors of a favorite restaurant or simply seeking a new family favorite, this creamy potato soup is guaranteed to please. Serve it with a side of crusty bread, and you’re all set for a memorable meal!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 cup cold water
- ½ small onion, finely diced (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup butter
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅛ cup bacon bits
- ⅛ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 quart water (for boiling potatoes)
Directions:
- Bring a quart of water to a boil in a large pot. Add diced potatoes and cook until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, combine chicken stock, water, diced onions (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour gradually to form a smooth roux. Let it cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add the roux to the simmering broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the heavy cream and allow the soup to simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked potatoes to the soup and stir gently to combine.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped green onions for garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, indulgent flavors.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Culinary Treasure
Few dishes encapsulate comfort and indulgence as perfectly as a rich, creamy bowl of potato soup. Among the many variations that have delighted taste buds over the years, the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup holds a special place. It’s more than just a dish—it’s an experience of warmth and satisfaction, a harmonious blend of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
When recreating this soup at home, you’re not just making a meal; you’re crafting a piece of Outback’s legacy, lovingly infused with your personal touch. This iconic soup is a testament to the magic of humble ingredients like potatoes, broth, and cream, elevated with bacon, cheddar cheese, and aromatic seasonings to create a dish that’s both hearty and luxurious.
The Allure of Potato Soup
Potato soup has a storied history, with its origins tracing back to the peasant cuisines of Europe, where potatoes were a staple crop. Over time, this simple dish evolved into a versatile comfort food, enjoyed in countless variations worldwide. The Outback Steakhouse version adds a modern twist to this classic, focusing on indulgence with rich, creamy textures and bold, savory flavors.
What makes this recipe stand out is its balance every element is perfectly calibrated to complement the others. The creamy base serves as a canvas, allowing the smoky crunch of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar, and the subtle freshness of green onions to shine. It’s a symphony of flavors that feels both familiar and exciting.
A Perfect Dish for Every Occasion
One of the most compelling features of this potato soup is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a casual family meal, or looking for a comforting dish to brighten a chilly evening, this soup fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its rich, hearty nature makes it particularly ideal for autumn and winter, when the colder weather calls for warming, satisfying meals.
Beyond its comforting appeal, this soup is an excellent choice for entertaining. Its elegant presentation, complete with colorful garnishes of cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions, is sure to impress your guests. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
The Secret to Its Success: Quality and Care
The magic of the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup lies in its ingredients and techniques. While the recipe is straightforward, the key to achieving its signature flavor and texture is in using high-quality ingredients and paying attention to detail. Opt for fresh, starchy potatoes, as they provide the creamy consistency this dish demands. A good-quality chicken broth forms the foundation of flavor, while heavy cream ensures a velvety richness.
The toppings are equally crucial. Crispy bacon bits add a delightful crunch and smoky depth, while sharp cheddar cheese melts into the soup, creating pockets of gooey, cheesy bliss. A sprinkle of fresh green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle brightness that balances the richness of the soup.
Customization and Variations
One of the joys of making this soup at home is the opportunity to customize it to suit your tastes. Prefer a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or garnish with sliced jalapeños. Looking for a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken broth for vegetable stock and omit the bacon. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or gruyere, to create your own unique flavor profile.
For those who enjoy additional texture, consider adding diced carrots or celery to the base. These vegetables not only enhance the nutritional value but also contribute a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements of the soup.
Tips for the Perfect Bowl of Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for this recipe, as they break down easily and create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Master the Roux: The flour-butter roux is essential for thickening the soup. Cook it just long enough to remove the raw flour taste, but not so long that it browns.
- Simmer Gently: Once all the ingredients are combined, simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld without risking curdling.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly, especially if your broth or cheese is already salted.
Why We Crave Comfort Foods
The appeal of dishes like Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup goes beyond taste; it’s rooted in our emotional connection to food. Comfort foods have a unique ability to evoke feelings of warmth, security, and nostalgia. Whether it’s a reminder of a favorite restaurant meal or the joy of sharing a hearty dish with loved ones, this soup offers more than just nourishment—it feeds the soul.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your meal, consider pairing this soup with complementary dishes. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. For a heartier option, serve it alongside a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping. A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a robust IPA can also enhance the flavors, providing a well-rounded dining experience.
A Culinary Tradition to Share
One of the greatest joys of this recipe is its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this soup has a way of turning any meal into a memorable occasion. It’s a dish that encourages you to slow down, savor each spoonful, and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food.
Conclusion:
Recreating the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup at home is more than just an exercise in cooking it’s an opportunity to indulge in a little luxury, share a cherished dish with loved ones, and celebrate the art of comfort food. Its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors make it a standout recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, this potato soup embodies the best of home cooking: hearty, satisfying, and filled with love. So, grab your apron and prepare to savor a dish that warms the body and soul alike. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again, as it truly is comfort food at its finest.