Craving the creamy, comforting taste of Outback Steakhouse’s famous potato soup? This copycat recipe brings that rich, indulgent flavor straight to your kitchen. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, it’s a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4 large russet or golden potatoes, diced
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 ½ cups chicken stock or broth
1 cup cold water
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping, optional)
¾ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup butter
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup green onion, diced
½ sweet yellow onion, diced (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them in water until tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, combine chicken stock, diced onions, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Slowly incorporate the roux into the simmering broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring gently to combine.
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the cooked, diced potatoes to the soup, stirring well to distribute evenly.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced green onions.
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy potato soup.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 420 kcal
Total Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
Cholesterol: 80 mg
Sodium: 900 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 4 g
Protein: 12 g

A Brief History of Potato Soup

Potato soup, like many other classic comfort foods, has humble beginnings. The potato, originally cultivated by the Incas in South America, made its way to Europe and eventually to North America. Over time, the potato became a staple ingredient in many dishes, especially soups. The versatility of the potato, with its ability to absorb flavors and transform into a creamy texture, made it an ideal base for soups and stews.

While there is no exact date or inventor of potato soup, the dish has evolved across cultures and cuisines. Some versions are more rustic, with chunks of potatoes, while others focus on smooth, velvety textures. Variations include the addition of bacon, cheese, onions, and herbs to create layers of flavor, and many regions have their own take on how potato soup should be made. Outback Steakhouse’s version stands out because of its creamy consistency and rich, comforting flavors, making it a go-to dish for those seeking something both hearty and satisfying.

What Makes Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup So Special?

Outback Steakhouse’s potato soup is more than just a bowl of potatoes in broth. It’s an experience—rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors. The restaurant chain is known for its Australian-themed menu, which includes steaks, seafood, and, of course, its signature soups. The Outback potato soup is a creamy, loaded soup made with russet potatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. It’s a comforting dish that features a perfect balance of ingredients.

One of the main reasons people love this potato soup is its indulgent texture. The combination of tender potatoes with a smooth, velvety broth creates a satisfying mouthfeel that’s comforting and hearty. Adding crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese on top provides a wonderful contrast in both flavor and texture, elevating the dish to a whole new level. The richness of the cream and the savory goodness of the bacon make each spoonful a comforting bite.

In addition to its flavors, the Outback potato soup is also versatile. It can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please.

The Allure of Comfort Food

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy potato soup. Comfort food, by definition, provides a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. For many people, comfort food is deeply tied to their memories and emotions. It’s often associated with home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and special occasions. The familiarity of ingredients like potatoes, bacon, cheese, and cream makes potato soup an enduring favorite.

Outback Steakhouse’s version of potato soup capitalizes on this universal appeal, offering a bowl that’s not just delicious but emotionally fulfilling. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. The warmth of the soup, combined with the satisfying flavors, makes it a go-to meal when comfort is needed.

How to Customize Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

While the classic Outback Steakhouse potato soup recipe is undeniably delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some suggestions on how to make the soup your own:

1. Add More Vegetables:

If you love vegetables or want to add more nutritional value to your soup, consider incorporating additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks. You can sauté these vegetables with the onions before adding them to the broth for extra flavor and color. This will not only enhance the soup’s flavor profile but also make it a more balanced meal.

2. Make It Vegetarian:

For those who follow a vegetarian diet or simply prefer to skip the meat, it’s easy to make the soup vegetarian-friendly. Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also replace the bacon with crispy fried onions or roasted chickpeas for some texture and flavor. Adding extra herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary, will also help deepen the flavor.

3. Use Dairy-Free Alternatives:

For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream, butter, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Coconut cream or cashew cream can be used in place of heavy cream, while plant-based butter and nutritional yeast can provide the richness and flavor of cheese. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste, as dairy-free substitutes may require extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.

4. Add Spices for Heat:

If you enjoy a bit of spice in your dishes, consider adding chili flakes, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to your potato soup. These ingredients will add an extra layer of flavor and heat that will elevate the dish and give it a unique twist. Just be sure to balance the heat with the creamy texture of the soup so that the flavors complement each other.

5. Go Gluten-Free:

For those with gluten sensitivities, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This will ensure that the soup has the same creamy consistency without compromising its texture.

Pairing Suggestions

Outback Steakhouse potato soup is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for side dishes that would complement the soup:

Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup.
Sandwiches: Pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a turkey club sandwich for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Steaks: For a true Outback Steakhouse experience, serve the soup as a side to a perfectly cooked steak, such as a rib-eye or sirloin.
Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or freshly baked rolls would be perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

Nutritional Considerations

While Outback Steakhouse potato soup is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider its nutritional content, especially if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake or follow a specific diet. The soup is rich in fats and carbohydrates, primarily from the potatoes, cream, and cheese. A single serving can contain around 400-450 calories, depending on portion size and toppings.

It’s a good idea to enjoy this soup in moderation, especially if you’re following a low-calorie or low-fat diet. However, if you’re craving comfort food, this potato soup is a satisfying option that can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally. You can also make healthier modifications, such as using reduced-fat dairy products or adding more vegetables, to lighten up the dish without compromising on flavor.

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse potato soup is more than just a comforting bowl of soup; it’s a dish that has become a beloved classic for its rich, creamy texture and satisfying flavors. Whether you’re making it at home or enjoying it at the restaurant, this soup is a perfect choice for anyone seeking a hearty, indulgent meal. By customizing the recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs, you can create your own version of this comforting classic.

0 Shares