As a chilly evening sets in, I find myself reminiscing about the restaurant nights filled with laughter and warm, hearty bowls of soup. One of my all-time favorites is the creamy, decadent Outback’s Potato Soup. You can recreate this indulgent comfort food right in your own kitchen! This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and smooth potatoes into a single bowl of pure satisfaction. A real crowd-pleaser, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet night in. Don’t you love the idea of elevating your home dining to restaurant quality without stepping out? Let’s dive into this deliciously creamy journey together!

Why Is This Potato Soup Irresistible?

Comforting Wholesomeness: This recipe brings the essence of restaurant dining to your kitchen, making every spoonful a warm hug on chilly nights.

Decadent Ingredients: With crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy potatoes, every bite bursts with flavor and richness.

Quick & Easy: Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with a recipe that’s straightforward yet impactful, perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile Options: Make it your own by swapping in vegetables or trying smoked sausage instead of bacon for a new twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this soup is guaranteed to impress, sweeping you and your loved ones away into creamy bliss.

Elevate your next meal with this Outback’s Potato Soup, perfect alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to round out your dining experience!

Outback’s Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Water – Essential for boiling the potatoes to achieve the perfect tenderness.
Russet or Golden Potatoes – Provide structure and a hearty base flavor; consider Yukon Gold for a creamier taste.
Chicken Stock – Forms the flavorful backbone of the soup; feel free to swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Cold Water – Used to adjust the soup’s consistency to your liking.

For the Creamy Blend

Heavy Whipping Cream – Contributes to the luscious texture of the soup; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Butter – Enhances richness and adds a velvety mouthfeel; use unsalted butter to control saltiness.
All-Purpose Flour – Ideal for thickening the soup in the roux; can be replaced with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

For the Flavor Boost

Bacon (8 slices) – Delivers a crispy, smoky flavor, elevating the overall richness.
Cheddar Cheese (3/4 cup + more for topping) – Adds a creamy, tangy richness that’s hard to resist; try Monterey Jack for a twist.
Yellow Onion (1/2, diced, optional) – Provides depth; skip it if you prefer a smoother taste.
Green Onion (1/4 cup, diced) – Offers fresh flavor and a pop of color; chives can be a delightful substitute.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to personal taste.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds a mild warmth; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.

With these ingredients meticulously combined, you’ll bring the beloved Outback’s Potato Soup to life—a comforting dish that wraps you in warmth and indulgence!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Outback’s Potato Soup

Step 1: Prep Potatoes
Begin by dicing the russet or golden potatoes into bite-sized cubes, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. In a large pot, cover the potatoes with salted water, bringing it to a vigorous boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, drain them and set aside, ready to be added back into your comforting Outback’s Potato Soup.

Step 2: Simmer Base
In a spacious pot, pour in the chicken stock and add the diced yellow onions, salt, and pepper. Stir in one cup of cold water to balance the flavors. Heat over medium-low until it reaches a gentle simmer, allowing the mixture to bubble softly for about 20 minutes. This simmering stage helps to meld the flavors essential for the rich base of your Outback’s Potato Soup.

Step 3: Make Roux
In a separate medium saucepan, melt a half cup of butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour, forming a smooth paste. Cook the roux for approximately 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden shade, eliminating any raw flour taste. This roux is a key element for the creamy thickness of your potato soup, so stir continuously for a silky consistency.

Step 4: Thicken Soup
Slowly pour the prepared roux into your simmering chicken stock mixture while whisking vigorously to combine smoothly. Watch as the stock transforms into a luscious, creamy broth, cooking for an additional 5 minutes while stirring. The roux thickens the soup, ensuring that your Outback’s Potato Soup has the indulgent richness that makes it so beloved.

Step 5: Final Touches
Stir in the heavy whipping cream to the thickened soup, allowing it to blend seamlessly over medium heat. Continue to simmer the soup for about 20 more minutes, stirring occasionally. After this time, fold in the reserved diced potatoes, giving it a gentle mix to reheat them. This step adds back that delightful potato texture and heartiness to your comforting bowl.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup is perfectly warmed and well-combined, ladle generous portions into bowls. Top each serving with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, and a scattering of diced green onions for color and freshness. The finishing garnishes elevate your Outback’s Potato Soup to a restaurant-quality dish, ready to be enjoyed with family and friends.

Expert Tips for Outback’s Potato Soup

Prep Perfect Potatoes: Cut potatoes into even, bite-sized cubes for uniform cooking. This ensures they become tender and contribute to a creamy texture.
Smooth Roux: When making the roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This creates a silky soup base for your Outback’s Potato Soup.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, feel free to add extra chicken stock or cold water until it reaches your desired creaminess.
Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation with creative toppings like crispy bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs for added flavor and color.
Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to elevate the flavor profile of your potato soup.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its creamy consistency.

What to Serve with Outback’s Potato Soup

As your pot of creamy deliciousness simmers, consider elevating your meal experience with some delightful pairings that add texture and flavor.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this hearty bread captures every last drop of the rich soup and adds a satisfying crunch.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad featuring seasonal greens and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy, indulgent soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A melty, gooey grilled cheese complements the soup’s richness and turns your meal into a nostalgic feast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized flavor of these sprouts brings a delightful sweetness that balances the savory soup perfectly.
Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: This finger food adds an elegant touch, delivering tender greens and smoky bites that enhance the soup experience.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully, with its crisp acidity cutting through the creaminess and complementing the flavors perfectly.

By fostering this delightful array, you’ll turn a simple bowl of Outback’s Potato Soup into a cozy, memorable meal to savor alongside those you love.

Outback’s Potato Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and adjust this delightful soup to suit your taste or dietary needs—your kitchen, your rules!

Vegetarian: Replace bacon with smoked mushrooms or omit entirely to keep it meat-free and still flavorful.
Sausage Twist: Swap bacon for Italian sausage for a spicy kick and a hearty texture that’ll revitalize your taste buds.
Extra Veggies: Add in carrots or corn for a pop of sweetness and extra nutrition, making your soup even heartier.
Spicy Upgrade: Stir in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat; your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy Light: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. This gives a slight sweetness and a unique flavor twist.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with cheeses like cream cheese or gouda to add different layers of flavor—gouda will add a delightful smokiness!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while simmering for a fragrant and aromatic lift to your soup.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this comforting soup alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread, like delicious honey feta sweet potato, for the ultimate cozy meal.

These variations allow you to create an Outback-like experience tailored just for you. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Outback’s Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the diced potatoes and the roux up to 24 hours in advance. Just cook the potatoes until fork-tender, drain, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Likewise, make the roux and store it in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simmer the chicken stock with the onions, stir in the prepared roux, and add the reserved potatoes. Finish with heavy cream and toppings to guarantee your soup is just as comforting and delicious as the day it was made!

Storage Tips for Outback’s Potato Soup

Fridge: Store your potato soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s fully cooled before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream to restore its luscious consistency.

Leftover Creative Use: Consider using leftover Outback’s Potato Soup as a flavorful sauce over baked potatoes or pasta for a quick, delicious meal!

Outback’s Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for this soup?
Opt for russet or golden potatoes, as they provide a hearty texture perfect for soups. I love using Yukon Gold for a creamier finish! Look for firm potatoes without dark spots or sprouting eyes; this ensures the best flavor and texture.

How should I store leftovers of this potato soup?
Place any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze the soup and how?
Absolutely! You can freeze Outback’s Potato Soup for up to 2 months. First, cool the soup completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find the soup too thick after preparation, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of extra chicken stock or cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help you achieve that luxurious, creamy texture you’re aiming for.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Good question! For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. If you have gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free flour in the roux. Always double-check for lactose intolerance if using heavy cream and cheese, considering alternatives like almond milk or lactose-free products instead.

Can I use other toppings for the soup?
Yes, the more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with toppings; diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, or even crispy fried onions can add delightful flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to personalize your bowl to cater to your taste preferences!