Name: Indulgent Potato Soup: Cozy Comfort in Every Spoonful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Russet Potatoes (Peeled and cubed); 6 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetarian option: vegetable broth); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Diced); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 4 tablespoons Butter (Can substitute with olive oil); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Cornstarch for gluten-free option); 2 cups Milk (Whole or 2%; almond/oat milk for dairy-free); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream for dairy-free option); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to heat preference); 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional); 4 slices Bacon (Cooked and crumbled; omit for vegetarian); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Or Gruyere/smoked Gouda); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt as lighter option); 1/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped, or substitute with chives)

As I stirred the creamy goodness of this Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, transporting me straight to my favorite cozy corner of the restaurant. This ultimate copycat recipe captures that same rich and cheesy experience, complete with savory bacon, buttery potatoes, and aromatic spices. One of the best perks of this delightful dish is its ease of preparation—perfect for busy weeknights when the chill in the air calls for comforting food. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a satisfying starter or main course that guests will adore. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, I guarantee this potato soup will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to recreate this warm hug in a bowl? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Potato Soup a Must-Try?

Indulgent and comforting, this Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup delivers warmth in every spoonful!
Simple to make, even novice cooks can whip up this dish with ease, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a starter or a hearty main course.
Flavor-packed, featuring savory bacon and creamy potatoes that create an irresistible taste sensation.
Customizable, you can tweak it with various toppings or vegetarian options, making it adaptable for everyone. Pair it with a side of Roasted Tomato Soup for a delightful duo!

Potato Soup Ingredients

• The essential ingredients for this indulgent potato soup recipe are simple yet impactful!

For the Soup Base

Russet Potatoes – Hearty and creamy; Yukon Gold works for a different texture.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth; for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.
Yellow Onion – Aromatic flavor base; shallots can be a great substitute.
Garlic – Enhances taste; always opt for fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Butter – Richness for sautéing; olive oil makes a lighter alternative.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens via a roux; use cornstarch for a gluten-free choice.
Milk (Whole or 2%) – Brings creaminess; almond or oat milk works for dairy-free.
Heavy Cream – For a velvety finish; substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free.

For Seasoning and Texture

Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to preference.
Black Pepper – Provides warmth; adjust based on desired heat.
Cayenne Pepper – Optional spice for a little kick; easily omitted if preferred.

For Toppings

Bacon – Adds smoky crunch; for a vegetarian option, omit or swap with crispy mushrooms.
Cheddar Cheese – Classic topping; try Gruyere or smoked Gouda for a twist.
Sour Cream – Balance out flavors with tang; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
Green Onions – Fresh garnishing for color; substitute with chives or shallots if desired.

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously cozy potato soup that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cubing about 4 medium Russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, which will serve as the hearty base of your potato soup. Rinse the cubed potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, ensuring a creamy texture in your final dish.

Step 2: Boil Potatoes
In a large pot, submerge the cubed potatoes in 6 cups of chicken broth. Place the pot over high heat and bring to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and can be easily pierced.

Step 3: Mash Potatoes (Optional)
Once the potatoes are tender, consider partially mashing them for a creamier consistency. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, leaving others intact for texture. This step is optional but adds to the richness of the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the potatoes are simmering, grab a separate pot and melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Make Roux
Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, cooking the flour until it forms a smooth roux that is lightly golden in color. This roux will help thicken your potato soup and give it a rich mouthfeel.

Step 6: Whisk in Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking to combine, ensuring no lumps remain. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This creates a creamy base for your indulgent potato soup.

Step 7: Simmer Milk Mixture
Continue to cook the milk and roux mixture over medium heat for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly and bubbles gently. This step helps to develop the flavors, so take your time to achieve the right consistency.

Step 8: Combine Mixtures
Once the potato mixture has cooked and is tender, carefully pour the contents of the potato pot into the milk mixture. Stir well to blend everything together, creating a uniform and creamy texture characteristic of the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup.

Step 9: Season Soup
Taste your potato soup and season it with salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to your preference. Stir well to combine; these seasonings will enhance the comforting flavors of the dish, so don't hesitate to adjust according to your taste.

Step 10: Add Heavy Cream
For an extra touch of richness, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream until fully incorporated. This addition transforms your soup into a velvety delight, so be sure to mix thoroughly for maximum creaminess throughout the pot.

Step 11: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the potato soup to thicken to your desired consistency while warming through.

Step 12: Ladle into Bowls
Once the soup has reached the perfect thickness and is steaming hot, ladle it into bowls carefully. Aim for generous portions to showcase the hearty goodness and comforting warmth of your homemade potato soup.

Step 13: Garnish Generously
Top each serving with your choice of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle with sliced green onions. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also make your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup visually appealing.

Step 14: Serve Immediately
Serve your delicious potato soup hot and enjoy the comforting embrace it offers. Perfect for family dinners, this creamy delight brings warmth and joy to any table, inviting everyone to savor every spoonful!

Make Ahead Options

These Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can peel and cube the potatoes and store them in water in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking to prevent browning. Additionally, the sautéed onion and garlic can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, which enhances the flavor. When you're ready to enjoy the soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients as per the final steps in the recipe—simmer everything together and stir in the heavy cream. This way, you'll achieve deliciously comforting results with minimal effort, making dinnertime a breeze!

What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

As the comforting aroma of potato soup wafts through your kitchen, imagine the warm, delightful meals waiting to complement this cozy dish.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy soup. A slice of sourdough or baguette can turn your meal into a comforting experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup, making it a great palate cleanser.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Nothing beats a classic grilled cheese alongside potato soup. The gooey, melty cheese mingling with buttery bread creates a delightful blend of flavors that kids and adults adore alike.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and slightly caramelized, roasted veggies add an earthy touch to your meal. Consider carrots, brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a colorful and nutritious side dish.
Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a vibrant green side packed with nutrients that enhances the overall meal, giving it a healthy touch.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, serve a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. The comforting sweetness and crunch complement the savory potato soup, leaving taste buds satisfied.

How to Store and Freeze Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze potato soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: To enjoy your potato soup, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.

Freezing Tips: Consider omitting heavy cream before freezing; add it back during reheating to maintain the velvety texture of your potato soup.

Potato Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these exciting twists and substitutions that will make your potato soup even more delightful!

Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly soup without sacrificing creaminess.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead. Consider adding roasted vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, for an extra flavor boost.
Extra Heat: Spice things up by adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a warm kick that will tantalize your taste buds!
Cheese Variations: Switch up the flavor by using Gruyere or smoked Gouda as a topping. Each cheese will offer a unique and delightful twist.
Add Proteins: For a heartier meal, mix in shredded chicken or diced ham, making it a perfect comfort food that’s filling and satisfying.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary while simmering; they'll enhance the aroma and add complexity to your soup.
Texture Twists: For added texture, consider mixing in a handful of corn or finely chopped broccoli to provide a nice contrast to the smoothness of the soup.
Garnish Ideas: Instead of standard toppings, try crispy fried onions or a pinch of smoked paprika on top for an earthy finish that packs a flavorful punch.

By customizing your potato soup, you can create the perfect cozy dish that fits your mood and dietary preferences. Don’t forget to serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad to complete the meal and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Potato Soup

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for creaminess, but Yukon Gold can add a delightful texture if you prefer something different.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the potatoes to cook until fork-tender. Undercooking will result in a grainy soup, while overcooking can lead to mushiness.
Add Flavors Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go; this ensures your potato soup is perfectly seasoned and avoids over-salting at the end.
Garnish Generously: A variety of toppings like cheese, bacon, and sour cream not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the presentation of your creamy potato soup.
Reheat with Care: When storing leftovers, reheat on the stovetop rather than the microwave to keep the creamy texture consistent.

Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, go with Russet potatoes as they break down beautifully during cooking. If you’re looking for a slightly different texture, Yukon Gold potatoes can also work wonders—just remember they have a creamier, buttery taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover potato soup?
Store any leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing, which helps prevent moisture buildup and keeps your soup fresh and tasty!

Can I freeze this potato soup?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! Pour your prepared soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion—this is essential! It will last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed for that creamy texture.

How can I troubleshoot if my potato soup is too thick?
If you find your soup too thick after cooking, just whisk in a little extra chicken or vegetable broth, or even some milk, until you reach your desired consistency. Allow it to simmer for an extra minute or two to blend everything nicely. Remember, the key is to adjust gradually so you don’t dilute the flavors!

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Very! To make it vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can enhance the flavors by adding roasted vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, and experimenting with various cheese toppings for extra depth!

Are there any allergy considerations with this potato soup?
Yes, it's important to consider allergies when preparing this dish. The recipe contains dairy (butter, milk, cream, cheese), so for dairy-free options, substitute with almond or oat milk and coconut cream. Additionally, if gluten is an issue, you can replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting bowl!