Outback Potato Soup Recipe – Creamy & Flavorful Copycat Version

Outback potato soup recipe is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Outback Steakhouse right into your kitchen. Made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a velvety cheese-infused broth, this soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. Whether you’re a fan of the restaurant’s version or just looking for a hearty homemade soup, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make Outback potato soup step by step, including the best ingredients, thickening techniques, and pro tips to achieve that perfect restaurant-quality taste. Plus, we’ll answer common FAQs to help you get the best results every time. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Outback Potato Soup Recipe

If you enjoy creamy, hearty soups, this Outback potato soup recipe will quickly become a favorite. It is rich, flavorful, and has the perfect balance of smooth texture and cheesy goodness. Whether you are craving comfort food or need a delicious appetizer, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste right at home.

1. Rich and Creamy Texture

One of the reasons Outback Steakhouse’s potato soup is so popular is its smooth, thick consistency. This recipe recreates that using:

• Russet potatoes that break down easily for a naturally creamy texture
• Heavy cream and cheese for richness and a velvety finish
• Butter and a flour roux to thicken the soup and give it the perfect consistency

2. Simple and Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and requires only a few basic ingredients. It is designed for home cooks of all skill levels, with easy-to-follow steps:

• One-pot cooking minimizes cleanup
• No special equipment needed beyond a pot and either a blender or potato masher
• Quick preparation with the soup ready in about 40 minutes

3. Customizable to Your Taste

Homemade potato soup allows you to adjust ingredients to your preference:

• For a chunkier texture, mash only some of the potatoes
• To make it cheesier, add extra sharp cheddar
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk

4. Great for Any Occasion

This soup works well in various situations:

• A family dinner that is filling and satisfying
• Meal prep since it stores well and reheats easily
• Appetizer before a main course or as part of a multi-course meal

If you love rich and creamy soups, you might also enjoy this Benignis Potato Soup Recipe, another delicious way to prepare a comforting bowl of potato goodness.

With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and easy preparation, this Outback potato soup recipe is sure to become a go-to dish in your home. Now, let’s look at the ingredients needed to make it.

Essential Ingredients for Outback-Style Potato Soup

Creating a rich and creamy Outback potato soup recipe starts with selecting the right ingredients. This recipe uses simple, wholesome components to achieve a smooth texture and deep flavor.

1. Main Ingredients

• Russet potatoes – These are the best choice for a creamy soup because they break down well while cooking.
• Onion – Adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Garlic – Provides a subtle savory note that complements the potatoes.
• Butter – Helps create a smooth and velvety texture when combined with flour.
• All-purpose flour – Used to thicken the soup and give it the right consistency.
• Chicken broth – Serves as the flavorful base of the soup. Vegetable broth can be used as an alternative.
• Heavy cream – Adds richness and makes the soup extra creamy.
• Cheddar cheese – Provides a sharp, cheesy taste that enhances the overall dish.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

2. Optional Ingredients for Customization

This soup is highly adaptable, allowing you to modify it to suit your taste preferences:

• Milk instead of heavy cream – For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whole or low-fat milk.
• Herbs and spices – A pinch of thyme or smoked paprika can add extra depth to the flavor.
• Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth – A great alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Cornstarch instead of flour – If you prefer a gluten-free option, cornstarch can be used as a thickener.
• Extra cheese – For a cheesier soup, add more shredded cheddar or try a mix of cheeses like gouda or parmesan.

3. Topping Ideas

While this soup is delicious on its own, toppings can enhance the taste and presentation. Some great options include:

• Chopped green onions for a mild onion flavor and color contrast.
• Shredded cheese for an extra layer of creaminess.
• A dollop of sour cream for a tangy touch.
• Croutons for added texture and crunch.

Looking for more creative ways to use potatoes? Check out this Ozette Potato Salad for a fresh and unique twist on a classic dish.

Using the right combination of ingredients ensures that this Outback potato soup recipe is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. Next, we will walk through the step-by-step process of making this comforting dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Outback Potato Soup

Making this Outback potato soup recipe is simple and requires just a few easy steps. Follow this guide to achieve a rich, creamy, and satisfying soup that tastes just like the restaurant version.

1 Preparing the Ingredients

Before cooking, gather and prepare all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

• Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes for even cooking.
• Chop the onion finely to enhance the flavor without overpowering the soup.
• Mince the garlic to release its aromatic qualities.
• Shred the cheese if using a block of cheddar, as freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.

2 Cooking the Base

• Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This helps thicken the soup.

3 Adding Liquids and Potatoes

• Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
• Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4 Blending for Creamy Consistency

Depending on your texture preference, you can:

• Use a potato masher to partially mash the potatoes for a chunkier soup.
• Use an immersion blender for a smoother, creamier consistency.
• Leave some potato chunks for texture while blending the rest.

5 Adding the Final Ingredients

• Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well to create a velvety texture.
• Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and blended.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6 Serving the Soup

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

If you love hearty soups with rich flavors, you might want to try this Purple Black Bean Soup Recipe, which offers a different but equally comforting experience.

Now that you know how to make this Outback potato soup recipe, let’s go over some expert tips to ensure the best results every time.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Potato Soup

Making a perfect Outback potato soup recipe requires more than just following the steps. These expert tips will help you achieve the best texture, flavor, and consistency every time.

1 Choosing the Right Potatoes

• Use Russet potatoes for the creamiest texture, as they break down easily while cooking.
• Avoid waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold, as they hold their shape and won’t blend as smoothly.
• Cut potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.

2 Achieving the Perfect Consistency

• For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or let the soup simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
• For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or a standard blender to puree the soup.
• For a chunkier soup, blend only half the mixture and leave some potato pieces intact.

3 Preventing a Grainy or Curdled Soup

• Do not boil after adding dairy. High heat can cause the cream to separate, resulting in a grainy texture.
• Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Add cheese gradually and stir continuously to prevent clumping.

4 Enhancing the Flavor

• Use a high-quality broth. A good chicken or vegetable broth adds depth to the soup.
• Sauté onions and garlic well before adding liquid to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Adjust seasoning at the end. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

5 Storing and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on low heat to maintain the creamy texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk while warming.
• Freeze without dairy. If you plan to freeze the soup, do so before adding cream or cheese. Add these ingredients when reheating for the best consistency.

By following these tips, you can make a perfectly creamy and flavorful Outback potato soup recipe every time. Next, let’s explore the best thickening agents to achieve the ideal consistency.

Best Thickening Agents for Potato Soup

A creamy Outback potato soup recipe should have the perfect consistency—not too thick and not too thin. If your soup needs more body, there are several thickening methods to achieve the ideal texture.

1 Flour-Based Thickening (Roux Method)

• The classic method involves butter and flour cooked together to form a roux.
• When added to the soup, the roux thickens the broth, creating a smooth and rich consistency.
• Use one tablespoon of flour per cup of liquid for mild thickening.

2 Cornstarch Slurry

• If you prefer a gluten-free option, cornstarch works well as a thickener.
• Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
• Stir the slurry into the soup and let it simmer until thickened.

3 Mashed Potatoes for a Natural Thickener

• Mashing part of the cooked potatoes gives the soup a thicker texture without needing additional starches.
• Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.
• This method maintains the full potato flavor while enhancing the consistency.

4 Heavy Cream for a Velvety Finish

• Adding heavy cream at the end of cooking naturally thickens the soup while making it extra creamy.
• For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of cream.
• Stir in the dairy slowly and avoid boiling the soup after adding it to prevent curdling.

5 Cheese for Extra Thickness

• Cheddar cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to a thicker consistency.
• Use freshly grated cheese to avoid clumping and ensure smooth melting.
• Stir the cheese in gradually, allowing it to melt fully before adding more.

6 Instant Potato Flakes for Quick Thickening

• Instant mashed potato flakes can be a convenient way to thicken soup instantly.
• Add small amounts at a time, stirring well to prevent lumps.
• This method is useful for fixing a soup that turned out too thin.

How to Add the Perfect Flavor to Your Soup

A great Outback potato soup recipe is more than just creamy—it needs deep, well-balanced flavors. If your soup tastes bland or one-dimensional, these techniques will help enhance the taste and create a rich, satisfying dish.

1 Use a Flavorful Broth

• Chicken broth adds depth and umami to the soup. Opt for low-sodium broth if you want more control over the seasoning.
• Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version while still providing a savory base.
• Avoid using plain water, as it can make the soup taste flat.

2 Sauté Aromatics for a Stronger Base

• Cooking onions and garlic in butter before adding liquid enhances their natural sweetness and richness.
• Make sure they are soft and translucent before proceeding with the recipe to maximize flavor.

3 Seasoning at the Right Time

• Add salt gradually rather than all at once to avoid over-seasoning.
• Black pepper and white pepper provide a mild spice that enhances the overall taste.
• For a subtle kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add warmth without overpowering the dish.

4 Balance with Acidity

• A creamy soup can sometimes taste heavy, so adding a touch of acidity helps brighten the flavors.
• A small amount of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can enhance the overall taste.
• If using sour cream as a topping, it naturally balances the richness.

5 Choose the Right Cheese

• Sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice for a bold, cheesy flavor.
• Parmesan or gouda can add extra complexity without overpowering the potatoes.
• Always grate cheese fresh for the best melting and smooth consistency.

6 Simmer for Maximum Flavor Development

• Letting the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes after adding all ingredients allows the flavors to meld together.
• Avoid boiling after adding dairy, as high heat can cause separation.

By using these techniques, you can elevate the taste of your Outback potato soup recipe and create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Next, let’s look at the nutritional breakdown of this comforting soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a great recipe, small mistakes can affect the texture and flavor of your Outback potato soup recipe. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced soup every time.

1 Using the Wrong Type of Potatoes

• Russet potatoes are the best choice because they break down easily, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Avoid waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold, as they hold their shape and won’t blend well into the soup.

2 Overcooking or Undercooking the Potatoes

• If overcooked, potatoes can become mushy and lose their texture.
• If undercooked, they may be too firm and affect the creaminess of the soup.
• Check for doneness by piercing a potato cube with a fork—it should be tender but not falling apart.

3 Adding Dairy at the Wrong Time

• Do not boil the soup after adding heavy cream or cheese, as high heat can cause the dairy to curdle.
• Slowly stir in cream over low heat to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Use freshly grated cheese, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can prevent proper melting.

4 Skipping the Roux or Thickening Agent

• The flour-based roux is key to getting the right consistency. Skipping it may result in a thin soup.
• If you prefer a gluten-free option, use cornstarch slurry or mashed potatoes to thicken instead.

5 Not Seasoning Properly

• Potatoes absorb a lot of seasoning, so salt should be added gradually and adjusted as needed.
• Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level more effectively.
• A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder can enhance the depth of flavor.

6 Blending the Soup Too Much or Too Little

• For a chunkier soup, mash only half the potatoes and leave some pieces whole.
• For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender, but avoid over-blending as it can create a gummy texture.

7 Storing and Reheating Mistakes

• Store leftovers properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on low heat to maintain the creamy texture—avoid microwaving on high, as it can cause separation.
• If the soup thickens too much after storage, add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to restore consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

This Outback potato soup recipe is a rich, creamy, and satisfying comfort food that’s easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can recreate the restaurant-quality taste in your own kitchen.

By following the steps and using the right thickening techniques, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced soup that’s smooth, flavorful, and customizable. Whether you prefer it chunky or creamy, this recipe allows for easy adjustments.

Pair it with salad, bread, or a sandwich for a complete meal. It also stores well, making it great for leftovers. Simply reheat on low heat, and enjoy a warm, homemade bowl of soup anytime.

Want more cozy soup ideas? Don’t miss this Chopt Soup Recipe, a flavorful option to add to your meal rotation.

Now, gather your ingredients and give this Outback potato soup recipe a try. Happy cooking!