Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup

• 4 large russet or golden potatoes, diced
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup cold water
• ¾ cups cheddar cheese (plus more for topping, optional)
• ¾ cups heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup butter
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup green onion, diced
• ½ sweet yellow onion, diced (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them until tender. Set them aside once cooked.
2. In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, diced onions, salt, pepper, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Let the roux cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly whisk the roux into the simmering broth, ensuring no lumps form. This thickens the soup to a creamy consistency.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to enrich the soup. Let the soup simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the boiled, diced potatoes to the pot and stir to evenly distribute them.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped green onions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Legacy of Potato Soup

Potato soup has a long history that spans across cultures. From rustic French potages to German kartoffelsuppe, variations of this dish have existed for centuries. At its core, potato soup is about simplicity—a few basic ingredients transformed into a comforting, satisfying meal. Over the years, however, chefs and home cooks alike have found ways to make this dish more luxurious. Outback Steakhouse’s version represents one such evolution, combining classic ingredients with indulgent additions like heavy cream, bacon, and cheddar cheese.

In a way, this soup is a reflection of modern comfort food trends. People crave dishes that remind them of home but also want a little extra flair. That’s exactly what Outback’s potato soup delivers: a nostalgic flavor with just enough richness to feel like a treat.

Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course, paired with a crusty piece of bread or a simple side salad. At the same time, it’s elegant enough to be part of a multi-course meal, setting the tone for a cozy dinner party.

Additionally, this dish is perfect for all seasons. While it’s particularly comforting in the colder months, its creamy, savory flavors make it a hit year-round. Whether you’re curled up by the fire or looking for a satisfying dinner after a summer rainstorm, this soup fits the bill.

Customization and Adaptability

Another reason this soup has gained so many fans is its adaptability. While the original recipe is already a masterpiece, it’s easy to tweak based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omitting the bacon. Want to up the nutritional content? Add some chopped kale, spinach, or broccoli. Prefer a little spice? A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika will give the soup a kick.

The garnishes also allow for creativity. While bacon, cheese, and green onions are the traditional toppings, you can experiment with sour cream, chives, crispy fried onions, or even croutons for added texture. These little personal touches make the soup feel truly special and unique to your table.

The Emotional Appeal of Potato Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of potato soup. For many people, it’s tied to memories of family dinners, cozy evenings, or even healing moments when a hot meal was just what the doctor ordered. This emotional connection is part of what makes recipes like Outback’s potato soup so beloved.

The act of making and serving this soup is also inherently nurturing. The process of simmering, whisking, and garnishing feels almost meditative, and the end result is a dish that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it to guests, sharing it with family, or enjoying it solo, this soup creates a sense of warmth and care.

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

To get the most out of this recipe, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, choose the right potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they provide the perfect balance of creaminess and structure. Be sure to dice them evenly for consistent cooking.

Next, pay attention to your roux. This combination of butter and flour is the foundation of the soup’s creamy texture, so take your time when whisking and cooking it. Allow it to develop a golden color before incorporating it into the broth to ensure maximum flavor.

Finally, don’t skimp on the garnishes. The toppings are more than just a visual flourish—they add essential flavors and textures that take the soup to the next level.

Pairing Suggestions

While this soup is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dish or beverage can elevate the meal even further. A freshly baked baguette or a slice of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment, offering a contrast of crunch and chewiness to the creamy soup. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s richness.

In terms of drinks, consider serving this dish with a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the creamy flavors. For non-alcoholic options, an iced tea or sparkling water with lemon works beautifully.

A Culinary Hug in a Bowl

At its heart, Outback Steakhouse potato soup is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down, savor each bite, and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. Its combination of rich flavors, comforting textures, and nostalgic appeal makes it a timeless classic.

Whether you’re looking to recreate the Outback experience at home or simply in search of a new comfort food favorite, this soup delivers on every front. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse potato soup is a dish that hits all the right notes: it’s creamy, hearty, flavorful, and endlessly comforting. Its universal appeal makes it a staple for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering. By following the recipe and adding your own personal touches, you can bring the magic of this iconic soup into your own kitchen.

So go ahead—grab your ingredients, heat up your pot, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bowl. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again, and one that’s sure to create lasting memories around the table.