This Outback Steakhouse-inspired potato soup is the epitome of comfort food. Creamy, rich, and loaded with savory flavors, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold evening. Every spoonful is bursting with tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or craving something cozy, this soup is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare and made with pantry staples, making it an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete and delicious meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of heavy cream to create a smooth paste.
- Add the butter to the pot with the potatoes and stir until melted. Slowly whisk in the flour mixture, stirring constantly, to thicken the soup.
- Pour in the remaining heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup: The Comfort Food You’ll Crave
There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy potato soup. Inspired by the famous Outback Steakhouse recipe, this version brings restaurant-quality comfort food straight to your kitchen. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that satisfy cravings and warm your soul. Whether you’re a fan of Outback Steakhouse or just love creamy soups, this recipe will become a go-to in your household.
The Origins of Loaded Potato Soup
While potato soup itself dates back centuries to European kitchens, where potatoes were a staple crop, the concept of a “loaded” potato soup with bacon, cheese, and sour cream has American roots. It takes inspiration from loaded baked potatoes, combining the richness of those toppings into one velvety dish. The Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup became famous for its creamy base and perfectly balanced flavors, making it a standout among restaurant soups.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Recreating Outback’s signature flavors means you get the satisfaction of a gourmet meal without leaving your kitchen.
- Customizable: Adjust the cheese, bacon, or cream to your preference, or make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth.
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of potatoes, cream, and cheese creates a dish that’s not just delicious but also satisfying enough to be a main course.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without too much effort.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
- Potatoes: A great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, potatoes are a nutrient-dense base for this soup.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and satiety.
- Bacon: While indulgent, it provides a smoky flavor that enhances the dish. For a leaner option, you can use turkey bacon or skip it entirely.
- Green Onions: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, they add a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Sour Cream: Its tangy profile balances the richness of the soup, while also offering a dose of calcium.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal because their starchy texture blends well, creating a creamy consistency.
- Cook Potatoes Evenly: Dicing potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cheddar, crispy bacon, and bright green onions elevate the flavors.
- Thicken with Care: Whisking flour with cream prevents lumps and creates a silky smooth base.
Versatility and Pairings
Potato soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Green Salad: A refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s richness.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort food combo.
You can also add toppings like chives, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This soup isn’t just a cold-weather staple—it’s a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, family gatherings, or game nights. It reheats beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Fun Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable stock and skip the bacon.
- Loaded Topping Bar: Serve the soup with bowls of shredded cheese, chopped bacon, sour cream, and green onions so guests can customize their bowls.
- Lighter Version: Use milk instead of heavy cream and replace sour cream with Greek yogurt.
The Comfort Food Connection
Potato soup evokes nostalgia for many, reminding us of cozy kitchens, family dinners, and the warmth of home. Its creamy, indulgent texture feels like a hug in a bowl, making it the ultimate comfort food. By recreating Outback Steakhouse’s signature dish, you can bring those memories to life while creating new ones with your loved ones.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Potato soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze in portions and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
- Reheating: Warm up on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Conclusion
This Outback Steakhouse-inspired potato soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about bringing people together over a bowl of something warm and delicious, sharing stories, and savoring every bite. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is bound to become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire.
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Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
This Outback Steakhouse-inspired potato soup is the epitome of comfort food. Creamy, rich, and loaded with savory flavors, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold evening. Every spoonful is bursting with tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or craving something cozy, this soup is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare and made with pantry staples, making it an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of heavy cream to create a smooth paste.
- Add the butter to the pot with the potatoes and stir until melted. Slowly whisk in the flour mixture, stirring constantly, to thicken the soup.
- Pour in the remaining heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
