Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting!
If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you know their potato soup is a standout menu item. Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheese, bacon, and hearty potatoes, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The good news? You don’t have to go out to enjoy this indulgent dish. With this easy-to-follow copycat recipe, you can recreate the magic of Outback’s famous potato soup right in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup is perfect for chilly nights, cozy family dinners, or meal prepping for the week. It’s packed with flavor and easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s customizable—whether you love extra cheese, crispy bacon, or a smoother texture, you can make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: Green onions, extra cheese, sour cream
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pot, crumble, and set aside. Keep the bacon grease in the pot for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon grease and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Mash the Potatoes
Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the potatoes. If you prefer a chunkier soup, mash lightly. For a smoother consistency, blend until creamy.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Stir in the Bacon
Return the crumbled bacon to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheese, green onions, and sour cream for the full Outback experience.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Make It Thicker – For an even thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup.
- Lighter Version – Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use evaporated milk for a lower-calorie option.
- Extra Flavor – Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of spice.
- Vegetarian Option – Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Slow Cooker Version – Cook the potatoes, onions, and broth on low for 6-7 hours, then mash and stir in the cream, milk, and cheese before serving.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Potato soup doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy, but if you must, freeze it without the cream and add it when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, add a little milk or broth to reach the desired consistency.
What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy soup.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Protein: Pair with grilled chicken or a steak for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use red or Yukon gold potatoes instead of russet?
Yes! Yukon gold potatoes will give a creamier texture, while red potatoes hold their shape more and result in a chunkier soup.
2. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the bacon and onions, then pressure cook the potatoes and broth for 8 minutes. Release pressure, mash, and stir in the cream and cheese.
3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! The base ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your chicken broth and other seasonings for hidden gluten.
4. How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or hot sauce for some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing rich, cheesy, and savory goodness to your bowl. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal-prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
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