On a brisk evening, the comforting aroma of simmering potatoes and crispy bacon wafts through my kitchen, creating a perfect cozy atmosphere. Inspired by the beloved Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup, this creamy delight is more than just a meal—it’s a warm bowl of happiness ready to envelop you in its rich texture and flavors. With tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory bacon, this recipe is a fantastic comfort food option that comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry staples, ensuring you can whip it up without a trip to the grocery store. Are you ready to savor each spoonful of this hearty goodness? Let’s dive in!
Why Is This Soup So Irresistible?
Creamy Comfort: This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup wraps you in warmth with its velvety texture, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Quick & Easy: With just about 30 minutes of prep, it’s a breeze for busy weeknights, offering a deliciously satisfying meal without the hassle.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy sour cream creates a rich, savory explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Pantry Staples: Made from common ingredients, you’ll love how effortlessly you can whip it up with items you likely already have on hand, just like my Coconut Curry Soup that helps clear out the pantry too.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or veggies, such as fresh chives or spinach, for added flair and nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone, just like my popular German Potato Pancakes that brighten up any occasion.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Potatoes – A mix of russet or Yukon gold potatoes provides the best creamy texture for your soup.
- Onion – Enhances flavor; you can swap in shallots for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is preferred for depth, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth – Use as the flavorful liquid base; opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
For the Creaminess
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds rich flavor and creaminess; try Gruyère for a unique twist.
- Sour Cream – Imparts tanginess; Greek yogurt makes a healthier substitute.
For the Crunch
- Bacon – Provides that essential crispy texture; turkey bacon is a lighter alternative.
Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to taste based on broth saltiness.
This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup is designed to make your evening cozy and satisfying, ensuring it’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing 4 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes into small cubes. Chop 4 slices of bacon, 1 onion, and 3 cloves of garlic, ensuring everything is ready to go. Having all your ingredients prepped will make the cooking process flow smoothly.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, setting it aside on a paper towel. Keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot for added flavor in your Outback Steakhouse potato soup.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same pot with the leftover bacon fat, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step will begin building the delicious flavor base for your soup.
Step 4: Cook Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, creating a hearty base for your Outback Steakhouse potato soup.
Step 5: Blend Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it’s partially pureed, keeping some chunks for texture. This process should take about 1-2 minutes. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender; just be cautious of the hot liquid.
Step 6: Mix in Creaminess
Stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of sour cream, mixing until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. The result will be a rich, creamy texture, enhancing the flavor of your Outback Steakhouse potato soup.
Step 7: Season
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, ensuring it’s just right for your palate. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Your comforting bowl of Outback Steakhouse potato soup is now ready to be served!
How to Store and Freeze Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the soup, pour it into zip-top freezer bags or freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label with the date!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, keep the temperature moderate to prevent the cheese from separating, ensuring every bowl remains creamy and delicious.
What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful pairings that enhance the heartwarming essence of this creamy potato soup.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a loaf of warm, fresh bread adds texture and helps soak up every flavorful drop of soup.
- Side Salad: A bright, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the richness of the potato soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melty goodness of a grilled cheese complements the creamy nature of the soup, making for a classic comfort food combination.
- Roasted Vegetables: Nutty, caramelized roasted vegetables bring depth and serve as a colorful, nutrition-packed companion to this hearty dish.
- Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Elevate your meal with this appetizer; the crispy bacon echoing the soup’s flavors while the asparagus adds a delightful crunch.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate, balancing the richness of the potato soup with its bright, fresh flavors.
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the meal, with its crispness creating a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
- Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies; their decadence pairs perfectly with the comforting warmth of the soup.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to make this delightful soup your own with these creative twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit bacon for a deliciously hearty vegetarian version. You won’t miss the meat with the added flavor from garlic and onions.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce during cooking for an extra layer of heat that adds excitement to every spoonful. Embrace the warmth!
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Herbed Goodness: Stir in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile of your soup. This simple addition can transform it into a gourmet experience.
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Creamy Cauliflower: Swap half the potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb option while still enjoying that creamy base. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies!
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Bacon Lovers’ Twist: Use smoked bacon or add crispy pancetta for a more intense, smoky flavor. The depth it brings will delight bacon enthusiasts and elevate your comforting bowl.
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor without dairy. Your vegan friends will love this healthy addition in the soup.
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Additional Veggies: Incorporate spinach, corn, or carrots for added nutrition and vibrant color. A nutritious boost that aligns beautifully with this already heartwarming dish.
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Cheese Lovers’ Choice: Try gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a unique flavor twist. This will add a surprising element that keeps everyone guessing!
With each of these variations, you can effortlessly adapt this soup to fit your mood or your guests’ preferences. And just like my comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup, you can create a masterpiece tailored to your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the potatoes, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply sauté the prepped onions and garlic, add the diced potatoes and broth, and follow the remaining steps. This way, you’ll have a comforting, hearty meal in no time, and it will be just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
Expert Tips for Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Thicken Wisely: Ensure your potatoes are cooked thoroughly; this helps achieve that desired creamy texture without needing excess thickening agents.
Blend with Care: Over-blending can turn your soup into a puree; aim for a good mix that maintains some potato chunks for heartiness.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust your seasoning; broth saltiness can vary widely, so make those little tweaks to ensure a perfect flavor balance in your Outback Steakhouse potato soup.
Customize it Up: Feel free to personalize your soup with toppings like crumbled bacon, chives, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra kick!
Store Smartly: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat gently, and it’ll taste just as good as the first serving.
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the best result?
Absolutely! I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for your Outback Steakhouse potato soup as they provide a creamy texture and hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which may break down too much.
How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?
Your Outback Steakhouse potato soup will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just ensure it cools completely before sealing; this helps prevent condensation from affecting the texture.
Can I freeze leftover potato soup, and if so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your soup! To do so, pour it into zip-top freezer bags or freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just remember to label each container with the date for easy tracking!
What should I do if my soup is too thick upon reheating?
If you find your Outback Steakhouse potato soup has thickened too much during refrigeration or freezing, no worries! While reheating, simply stir in a splash of chicken or vegetable broth until it’s at your desired consistency. Heat gently to avoid separating the cheese.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients for dietary reasons?
Very! You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter version. Always feel free to adjust other ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions, making your soup truly your own!
Is this soup pet-friendly?
It’s best to avoid sharing your Outback Steakhouse potato soup with pets, particularly due to ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be toxic to them. Always keep your furry friends’ dietary safety in mind when cooking!
Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and dice 4 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes into small cubes. Chop 4 slices of bacon, 1 onion, and 3 cloves of garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, keeping 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the bacon fat and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 15 minutes until fork-tender.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until partially pureed, keeping some chunks for texture.
- Stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of sour cream until melted and combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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