If you’re a fan of Outback Steakhouse’s comforting dishes, you’ll love recreating their famous Potato Soup at home. I remember the first time I tasted its creamy, hearty goodness—it instantly became a family favorite.
With this copycat recipe, you can whip up that rich, flavorful soup in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this potato soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 4 large | Yukon Gold potatoes | peeled and diced |
| 1 medium | onion | finely chopped |
| 2 cloves | garlic | minced |
| 4 cups | chicken broth | |
| 1 cup | heavy cream | |
| 4 tablespoons | butter | |
| 6 slices | bacon | cooked and crumbled |
| 2 cups | cheddar cheese | shredded |
| 1 cup | sour cream | |
| 2 tablespoons | all-purpose flour | |
| 1 teaspoon | salt | |
| ½ teaspoon | black pepper | |
| Optional | green onions | sliced, for garnish |
Tools
To create the perfect Outback-style Potato Soup, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen to ensure everything comes together smoothly:
Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
- Essential for simmering the soup evenly and preventing sticking.
Chef’s Knife
- A sharp, reliable knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
Cutting Board
- Provides a stable surface for prep work and keeps your countertops protected.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Accurate measurements are key to achieving the creamy texture and rich flavor.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Perfect for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
Immersion Blender
- Allows for easy blending of the soup directly in the pot, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Ladle
- Handy for serving the soup into bowls without spilling.
- Useful for prepping ingredients and mixing components before adding them to the pot.
Having these tools ready will make the cooking process enjoyable and efficient, allowing you to focus on creating a delicious, comforting bowl of potato soup.
Directions
Recreating Outback Steakhouse’s beloved Potato Soup is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to craft a creamy and hearty bowl that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prepare Ingredients
Begin by peeling and dicing four Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Finely chop one medium onion and mince three cloves of garlic for a depth of flavor. Cook six slices of bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside. Grate two cups of sharp cheddar cheese and measure out one cup of sour cream. Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Cook the Soup
In a large Dutch oven, melt four tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about five minutes. Sprinkle three tablespoons of flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously to form a roux. Gradually pour in four cups of chicken broth, whisking to eliminate any lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 20 minutes. Stir in one cup of heavy cream and let the soup thicken, stirring occasionally to achieve a silky texture.
Finalize and Serve
Once the soup has reached the desired consistency, incorporate the sour cream and half of the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed. Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls, topping each serving with the crispy bacon, remaining cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh contrast. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors reminiscent of your favorite Outback Steakhouse dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As a chef passionate about cooking, grilling, and baking, I find that preparing elements of the Outback Potato Soup in advance can save time and enhance flavors. Here’s how you can make-ahead for a seamless cooking experience:
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
- Chop Vegetables: Peel and dice the Yukon Gold potatoes, finely chop the onions, and mince the garlic. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Cook the Bacon: Crisp the bacon in a skillet until golden. Let it cool, then crumble and store in a sealed container. This step not only saves time but also allows the bacon to develop a deeper flavor.
- Grate the Cheese: Grate the cheddar cheese in advance and keep it in a sealed bag or container. Pre-grated cheese melts more smoothly into the soup, ensuring a creamy texture.
Assembling Components
- Create the Roux: Melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Let it cool completely and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently when ready to use to maintain its thickening power.
- Prepare the Broth Mixture: Combine chicken broth with any seasonings you prefer. Keep this mixture refrigerated until you’re ready to add it to the soup base.
Storing the Soup
- Cool Completely: After cooking the soup, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and maintains the soup’s consistency.
- Use Proper Containers: Transfer the soup to airtight containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion if freezing. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Freezing retains the soup’s rich flavors and hearty texture.
Reheating Tips
- Thaw Overnight: If frozen, move the soup to the refrigerator the night before you plan to serve it. This ensures even reheating.
- Gentle Heat: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Final Touches: Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and cheddar cheese last to maintain their creamy textures. Heat until everything is warm and well combined.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of Outback Potato Soup with minimal effort, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting meal on a busy day.
Conclusion
Enjoying a bowl of homemade Outback Potato Soup brings comfort and warmth right to your kitchen. There’s something special about crafting this creamy and hearty soup yourself making it even more satisfying. Whether you’re winding down on a chilly evening or hosting friends and family this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Plus having it ready ahead of time saves you time and stress allowing you to focus on what matters most. I hope this copycat recipe becomes a new favorite in your household bringing smiles and delicious flavors to every meal.
