When the chilly winds begin to swirl and the leaves turn golden, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, comforting potato soup to warm the spirits. I stumbled upon this delightful Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe during a cozy evening at home, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, this version captures the rich, savory flavors that make the original so beloved, all while being surprisingly easy to whip up in your own pot.
The aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with the sweetness of sautéed onions fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make time and time again. Let’s dive into this delicious journey of creamy goodness that promises to elevate your homemade cooking to new heights!
Why is this Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe special?
Comforting warmth: This creamy potato soup is the ultimate hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights.
Simple ingredients: Just a few pantry staples transform into a savory delight, making it accessible for everyone.
Rich, bold flavors: The combination of crispy bacon and creamy cheese elevates this soup, delighting your taste buds.
Quick preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a time-saving meal for weeknights.
Family favorite: Serve it with toppings, and watch it disappear at the dinner table! Whether you need comfort or want to impress guests, this recipe is pure paradise.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Ingredients
Note: Gather these ingredients for a delicious homemade experience!
For the Soup
• Russet potatoes – 4 cups peeled and diced; these hearty potatoes give the soup its creamy base.
• Bacon – 6 slices cut into 1-inch pieces; the crispy texture and smoky flavor make this soup irresistible.
• Unsalted butter – 3 tablespoons; it adds richness to the sautéed vegetables in the soup.
• Yellow onion – 1 diced; sweet and savory, onions enhance the overall flavor.
• Celery – 2 stalks diced; adds a refreshing crunch and depth of flavor.
• Carrot – 1 diced; brings natural sweetness and color to the soup.
• All-purpose flour – ½ cup; helps thicken the soup for that luscious texture.
• Chicken broth – 6 cups; provides a savory base for the soup.
• Heavy cream – 1 ½ cups; this ingredient contributes to the creamy richness that calls to mind the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe.
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon; a sprinkle adds depth and aroma.
• Dried thyme – ¼ teaspoon; introduces a subtle earthiness that complements the potatoes.
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; essential for enhancing all flavors.
• Fresh cracked black pepper – ½ teaspoon; pepper gives the perfect zing to the soup.
For Serving
• Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup; melty goodness that makes each bowl indulgent.
• Green onions – 2, thinly sliced; a fresh, vibrant garnish that pops with flavor and color.
How to Make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
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Prepare the Potatoes: Place the peeled and diced russet potatoes into a large pot. Fill with enough water to cover the potatoes completely and bring to a boil. Cook until a knife easily pierces through—this makes for a tender base.
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Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside. This step ensures they are ready to blend into a creamy texture later.
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Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes are boiling, take another large pot and cook the 1-inch pieces of bacon over medium heat until they’re crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the delicious bacon grease in the pot.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot with the bacon grease, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in the diced yellow onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion appears translucent.
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Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle ½ cup of all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly. This will help thicken the soup.
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Add Broth and Cream: Gradually pour in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 1 ½ cups of heavy cream while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This creates the velvety consistency we love!
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Season the Soup: It’s time to flavor the base! Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper. Mix well to combine.
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Simmer Until Thickened: Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly. This lets all the flavors meld together.
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Blend the Soup: Carefully add the reserved potatoes to the soup. Using an immersion blender or a standing blender, blend until the soup reaches a smooth and creamy texture. This is the heart of the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe!
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Adjust Seasonings: After blending, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Feel free to add more salt and pepper to suit your liking.
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Serve with Toppings: Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls and garnish each with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and thinly sliced green onions. This adds the finishing touch!
Optional: For extra flavor, drizzle a little olive oil before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish with any of these creative twists that will take your soup experience to the next level.
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a deliciously hearty soup that still satisfies.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty kick that warms you from the inside out.
For loved ones who enjoy heat, a few diced jalapeños can transform the entire soup into a comforting spicy delight. Just make sure to balance it with more creamy goodness to keep the flavors rich.
- Herb-Infused: Substitute dried thyme with fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a fragrant twist that will awaken your senses.
- Loaded: Top with sour cream, additional cheese, and crispy fried onions for a fully-loaded experience that resembles a baked potato in a bowl.
Imagine the layering of flavors as you add these indulgent toppings, making each spoonful an explosion of delicious sensations. It’s an ultimate party for your taste buds!
- Protein-Packed: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham to up the protein while keeping the soup hearty and filling.
- Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories while maintaining a creamy texture.
For those seeking lighter fare, a swap of heavy cream for almond milk brings a breathable lightness to each bowl.
- Cheesy Madness: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique, smoky flavors that take this traditional soup to a new realm of cheese-loving enjoyment.
Embrace these variations and let your creativity shine in the kitchen as you explore the delightful layers of flavors this soup can offer!
What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
When you whip up a pot of creamy potato soup, the perfect accompaniments can transform your cozy meal into a delightful feast.
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Crunchy Garlic Bread: A crispy side that complements the creamy soup perfectly, offering a satisfying contrast with every bite.
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Garden Salad: Fresh greens topped with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness of the soup, adding vibrancy and crunch to your meal. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra freshness!
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melty cheese and buttery bread creates a nostalgic pairing that warms the heart, making you feel like a kid again.
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Fried Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy on the outside and gooey inside, these cheesy bites are perfect for dipping in the soup, enhancing its flavor with every crunchy morsel.
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Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: These savory bites bring a touch of elegance to the table while echoing the delightful flavor of bacon found in the soup.
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Fruit Tart: End your meal with a sweet note! A light and fruity dessert provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, delighting your palate.
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Iced Tea: A chilled beverage adds a refreshing element alongside the warmth of the soup, perfect for sipping slowly as you enjoy every bite.
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Red Wine: Pair your meal with a glass of medium-bodied red wine. The deep flavors can elevate the rustic nature of the potato soup, making for a lovely dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed for creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space for expansion as it freezes. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, warm the soup on medium heat. Stir often and add a little chicken broth or cream to restore its smooth texture if necessary.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure the container is airtight to prevent freezer burn and maintain the savory flavors of your delicious Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe.
Expert Tips for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes as they break down beautifully, creating a rich, creamy texture perfect for your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe.
- Avoid Lumps: When adding the chicken broth and cream, pour slowly while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This ensures a smooth, velvety soup.
- Don’t Skip the Blend: Blending the soup with an immersion blender makes it creamy. If using a standing blender, blend in batches to avoid overflow.
- Adjust to Taste: Always taste your soup after blending. Adjust seasonings, adding more salt or pepper as needed for the perfect flavor balance.
- Garnish Generously: The toppings make the dish! Don’t be shy with the cheddar cheese and bacon; they elevate your soup from good to outstanding.
Make Ahead Options
This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time during your busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base, including cooking the bacon and sautéing the vegetables, up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the soup and add in the diced cooked potatoes, heavy cream, and seasonings. Blend until creamy and garnish with cheddar cheese and green onions right before serving for a deliciously warm meal that feels just as comforting as when it was made fresh!
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using russet potatoes. Their starchy nature helps create that creamy base that is so characteristic of potato soup.
How long can I store the potato soup in the refrigerator?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if it seems too thick.
Can I freeze the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove, stirring often.
What should I do if my potato soup is too thick?
Not to worry! If your soup has thickened more than you like, simply add a little chicken broth or cream while reheating. Stir gently until you reach the desired consistency. It’s all about catering to your tastes!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, be mindful of the bacon and heavy cream; they are significant components of the dish. For a lighter and dairy-free option, you could try using coconut milk instead of cream and bacon alternatives made from vegetables. Always check labels to ensure safety.
How do I ensure my soup doesn’t have lumps?
To prevent lumps, when you’re adding chicken broth and cream to the mixture, pour slowly while stirring continuously. This will help create that smooth, velvety texture everyone loves in the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe.
Deliciously Creamy Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe
Equipment
- - Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- immersion blender
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 cups Russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 6 slices Bacon cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 Yellow onion diced
- 2 stalks Celery diced
- 1 Carrot diced
- ½ cup All-purpose flour
- 6 cups Chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups Heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon Fresh cracked black pepper
For Serving
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Green onions thinly sliced
Instructions
Instructions
- Place the peeled and diced russet potatoes into a large pot. Fill with enough water to cover the potatoes completely and bring to a boil. Cook until a knife easily pierces through.
- Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- While the potatoes are boiling, take another large pot and cook the 1-inch pieces of bacon over medium heat until they're crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the delicious bacon grease in the pot.
- In the same pot with the bacon grease, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in the diced yellow onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion appears translucent.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
- Gradually pour in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 1 ½ cups of heavy cream while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Carefully add the reserved potatoes to the soup. Using an immersion blender or a standing blender, blend until the soup reaches a smooth and creamy texture.
- After blending, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls and garnish each with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and thinly sliced green onions.