When the chill of winter begins to creep in, there's nothing quite like settling down with a warm bowl of comforting soup. I remember the first time I tasted Outback Steakhouse's Potato Soup; it was an unexpected delight that made me rethink my fast-food routine. The creamy texture combined with tender potato chunks and a hint of cheesy goodness instantly made it my go-to choice when craving something hearty and satisfying.
This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup recipe brings that restaurant magic right into your kitchen, allowing you to whip up a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal without the fuss. With just a handful of simple ingredients and around 40 minutes of your time, you can create a bowl of bliss that warms not only your stomach but your soul too. Ready to indulge? Let's dive into this comforting classic and elevate your soup game!
Why You'll Love This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring only simple ingredients and around 40 minutes from start to finish.
- The flavor is rich and creamy, providing a comforting taste that rivals the beloved original from Outback Steakhouse.
- You'll love the versatility of this soup, as you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon or extra cheese.
- Its visual appeal is undeniable, as the vibrant green onions and melty cheddar create a mouthwatering presentation that will impress your family and friends.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Ingredients
Get ready to recreate that savory goodness!
For the Soup Base
• Russet or golden potatoes – 4 large, diced potatoes add heartiness and texture to your soup.
• Chicken stock or broth – 2½ cups for a rich, flavorful base that complements your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup recipe perfectly.
• Cold water – 1 cup to balance the broth and keep the soup creamy.
• Sweet yellow onion (optional) – ½, diced for a slight sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon to elevate the taste of all your ingredients.
• Ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon for a hint of warmth and spice.
For the Thickener
• All-purpose flour – ⅓ cup to create a roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
• Butter – ½ cup, melted to bring richness and a velvety texture.
For the Creamy Finish
• Heavy whipping cream – ¾ cup for that luxurious, creamy consistency we all love.
• Cheddar cheese – ¾ cup, plus more for topping, ensuring that gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Green onion – ¼ cup, diced for a fresh crunch and burst of color to garnish your soup.
How to Make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
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Dice potatoes. Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Then, boil them in a pot of salted water until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Combine ingredients. In a large pot, mix the chicken stock, diced onion, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cold water. Simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Create a roux. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring continuously until it forms a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes; it should bubble gently but not brown.
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Thicken the soup. Slowly whisk the roux into the simmering broth mixture, mixing well to ensure there are no lumps. This will help thicken your soup for that creamy consistency we crave.
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Add cream. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and let it simmer for an additional 20 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
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Mix in potatoes. Gently fold the cooked, drained potatoes into the soup and stir well until everything is evenly combined.
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Serve hot. Ladle your delicious soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and diced green onions for a colorful finish.
Optional: Add crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this comforting soup and let your creativity shine!
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Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based cream and cheese to create a delightful vegan version. The result will be equally comforting and creamy.
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Loaded Baked Potato: Top with crispy bacon bits, extra cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives for a hearty twist that brings all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato!
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Spicy: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while simmering for an exciting kick. This spicy version will tickle your taste buds and warm your soul.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the broth for a fragrant and flavorful layer that elevates the soup's comforting essence. The aroma will fill your kitchen and entice your family.
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Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a delightful depth of flavor, reminiscent of a cozy campfire evening.
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Cheesy Broccoli: Stir in steamed broccoli florets along with the potatoes for a colorful, nutritious addition that complements the creamy base.
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Creamy Tomato: For a tangy alternative, add a cup of diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning while mixing in the cream. The result is a creamy tomato soup with potato chunks that'll surprise your palate.
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Sweet Potato Swap: Replace russets with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and nutritious twist. This variation adds a beautiful hue and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Warm your heart and tummy with a comforting meal that turns a simple soup into a delightful experience.
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Crusty Bread: Nothing beats dipping a slice of warm, crusty bread into this velvety soup. It soaks up every creamy bite, enhancing the flavor even further.
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Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a burst of color and freshness.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey perfection of a grilled cheese sandwich pairs perfectly. The melty cheese and crunchy bread elevate the experience to sheer comfort food bliss.
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Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: For a touch of elegance, serve bacon-wrapped asparagus. The savory crunch complements the creamy potato soup beautifully, bringing a delightful texture balance to your meal.
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Savory Chicken Wings: Crispy chicken wings bring a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the warmth of your soup. Consider a tangy buffalo or sweet BBQ version for a fantastic flavor combination.
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Fruit Tart for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with a light fruit tart. The sweetness and freshness of seasonal fruits will cleanse the palate after the rich soup.
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Sparkling Water or Iced Tea: Complement your meal with a refreshing drink. Sparkling water adds a subtle zing, while iced tea offers a sweet or unsweetened choice that pairs nicely without overpowering the soup's flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the diced potatoes and cook them up to 24 hours in advance—simply store them in a sealed container with water to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the broth mixture (without the cream and potatoes) up to 3 days ahead. Just refrigerate the cooled broth mixture, making sure it’s well covered to maintain its flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth, stir in the heavy cream, add the prepped potatoes, and simmer until everything is warmed through. This way, you'll enjoy a hearty bowl of creamy potato soup that tastes as fresh as it would on the day it’s made!
How to Store and Freeze Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Fridge: Store your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or water if it thickens too much.
Serving: When ready to serve, top your reheated soup with extra cheddar and green onions for that fresh, comforting touch!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup, ensure your potatoes are cut uniformly so they cook evenly and become tender at the same time.
- Avoid rushing the roux-making process; allowing it to bubble gently for 1-2 minutes will enhance the flavor and prevent unwanted clumps in your soup.
- For an extra rich taste, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the salt later in the cooking process if needed.
- Always stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the cream from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pot, which can affect the final texture.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using russet or golden potatoes, as they’re perfect for achieving that creamy texture and hearty bite. Look for potatoes that are firm, without any dark spots or sprouting—these are the freshest. Generally, avoid mealy varieties for soups, as they can break down too much.
How should I store the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
For best results, store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to keep that fresh flavor intact. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water if it thickens too much; this keeps it creamy and delicious!
Can I freeze Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup?
Certainly! You can freeze your soup for up to 3 months. I suggest portioning it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then gently reheat on the stovetop. If it gets too thick, just stir in a bit of water or extra cream.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If your potato soup is thicker than you'd like, simply add a bit more chicken stock or water while stirring it over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. Remember, the flavors will meld as you heat it, so take your time adjusting to your preference!
Is this soup safe for those with dietary restrictions?
While the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup recipe is certainly delicious, it contains dairy and gluten. If you're cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, try using lactose-free cream and butter. For gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Always check labels for hidden allergens if serving to someone with dietary sensitivities.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers of your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. Just remember to cool the soup completely before placing it in an airtight container to keep everything tasting on point!
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Then, boil them in a pot of salted water until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, mix the chicken stock, diced onion, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cold water. Simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring continuously until it forms a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes; it should bubble gently but not brown.
- Slowly whisk the roux into the simmering broth mixture, mixing well to ensure there are no lumps.
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and let it simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gently fold the cooked, drained potatoes into the soup and stir well until everything is evenly combined.
- Ladle your delicious soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and diced green onions.
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