BEST CREAMY OUTBACK POTATO SOUP

Craving that rich, comforting bowl of potato soup you get at Outback Steakhouse? Imagine a spoonful of velvety smooth soup, studded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. This Creamy Outback Potato Soup recipe delivers all that and more, right in your own kitchen. I promise, you’ll be making this one again and again!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Potatoes: 6 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and crumbled (reserve 2 tablespoons bacon grease)
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Chicken Broth: 6 cups
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Sour Cream: 1/2 cup
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• Green Onions: 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Optional Toppings:

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Extra crumbled bacon
• Dollop of sour cream

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter along with the reserved bacon grease over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Build the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux that will thicken the soup.
2. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to dissolve any lumps of flour.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot.
2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Cream It Up!

1. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
2. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend about half of the soup until smooth. You can also use a regular blender, but be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids! Work in batches and vent the lid to prevent explosions. I prefer the immersion blender as it’s much easier and safer.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until well combined.

Step 5: Cheese and Bacon Time!

1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the soup is smooth and cheesy.
2. Add most of the crumbled bacon (reserve some for garnish).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and extra cheddar cheese if desired. A dollop of sour cream adds a nice touch too!
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Soup Perfection

Potato Prep is Key

The type of potato matters! Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup because they break down slightly during cooking, contributing to the creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used, but they will hold their shape a bit more.

Don’t Skip the Bacon Grease!

Reserving the bacon grease and using it to sauté the onions and garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor to the soup. It’s a game changer, trust me!

Blending for the Right Texture

Blending only part of the soup is what gives it that perfect balance of creamy and chunky. If you prefer a completely smooth soup, go ahead and blend it all. Just remember to be careful when blending hot liquids!

Adjusting the Thickness

If your soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.

Make it Ahead

This soup is even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Variations and Additions

Spice it Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.

Add Veggies

Sauté some carrots and celery along with the onion for extra flavor and nutrients.

Make it Healthier

Use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Add Protein

Stir in some cooked ham, shredded chicken, or sausage for a heartier soup.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Outback Potato Soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with:

• A crusty bread for dipping
• A side salad
• Grilled cheese sandwich

Other Delicious Soup Recipes To Try

If you love this Creamy Outback Potato Soup, you might also enjoy these other amazing soup recipes:

• Roasted Garlic Soup: This is creamy and so delicious!
• French Onion Soup Recipe: A classic comfort food!
• Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup: So easy, the crock pot does all the work!
• Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: A flavor explosion in every bite!
• Crock Pot Potato Soup: Another great slow cooker option!

Potatoes, Glorious Potatoes! (More Potato-Focused Recipes)

If you love potatoes as much as I do, you should also check out Potatoes Au Gratin Irresistible Perfection! It’s a side dish that’s sure to steal the show.

Troubleshooting: Common Soup Problems and Solutions

Soup is Too Thin

Problem: Your soup lacks the desired thickness.

Solution:

• Simmer Longer: Continue simmering the soup uncovered for 10-15 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Whisk the slurry into the soup and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
• Roux Rescue: In a separate saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly whisk in some of the hot soup until smooth. Pour the mixture back into the main pot and simmer until thickened.

Soup is Too Thick

Problem: Your soup is overly thick and pasty.

Solution:

• Add Liquid: Gradually add more chicken broth, milk, or cream until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well after each addition.

Soup is Bland

Problem: The soup lacks flavor.

Solution:

• Salt and Pepper: Taste the soup and season with more salt and pepper. Remember that salt enhances the other flavors.
• Add Herbs: Stir in some dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
• Boost the Broth: Add a teaspoon of bouillon powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Cheese Won’t Melt Smoothly

Problem: The cheese is clumping or not melting evenly.

Solution:

• Low Heat: Make sure the heat is on low when adding the cheese.
• Grated Finely: Use finely shredded cheese for better melting.
• Add Slowly: Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted.
• Avoid Boiling: Don’t let the soup boil after adding the cheese, as this can cause it to separate.

Final Thoughts: Soup’s On!

This Creamy Outback Potato Soup is truly a bowl of comfort. With its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in. So grab your ingredients, follow my tips, and get ready to enjoy the BEST potato soup you’ve ever tasted! Happy cooking, friend!