Discover the secret to replicating Outback Steakhouse's iconic baked potato soup at home. This copycat recipe unfolds the layers of creamy potatoes, rich broth, and the finishing touch of melted cheese and crispy bacon that define this comforting dish.
Perfect for both novice and experienced chefs, this guide offers a step-by-step approach to recreate the cozy, inviting flavors of Outback's kitchen in your own home. If the thought of diving into a bowl of this hearty soup has you eager to learn, continue reading to fulfill your comfort food desires.
Equipment Need
- Large soup pot
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Wire whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater
Prep Time
Gathering your equipment and ingredients, you can expect to spend approximately 10 minutes prepping before you begin cooking your Outback-inspired creamy potato soup.
Ingredients Breakdown for Outback-Inspired Potato Soup
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups diced onions
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 4 large baked potatoes, cut into chunks of potato
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Additional toppings such as crispy bacon, green onion tops, and a dollop of sour cream
Ensure you have all these ingredients measured and ready to create the ultimate chunky soup that Outback Steakhouse fans adore.
How to Proceed
- In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium-high heat and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onion mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to rid the flour mixture of its raw taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring that the mixture remains smooth and free of lumps. Add the alfredo sauce and milk, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the diced potatoes to the soup, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Using a potato masher or immersion blender, slightly thicken the soup by crushing some of the potato pieces. For a thicker soup, you can mash more potatoes.
- Stir in the jack and cheddar cheeses until melted and smoothly combined into the soup. Add the seasoning salt, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Once the soup has reached the desired consistency, remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with green onion tops, bits of bacon, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot.
Additional Choice
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water) to the simmering soup and stir until thickened. For added texture, top with additional chunks of baked potatoes or crispy bacon bits.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
- For an extra protein boost, consider topping your bowl of soup with grilled chicken strips.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Outback-inspired creamy potato soup contains approximately 350 calories, with 20 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 10 grams of protein.
Tips and Tricks for a Souperb Outback Steakhouse Soup
- To achieve a richer flavor in the soup, use homemade chicken stock and add seasoning salt to taste.
- For a thicker soup, allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-20 minutes or until it reaches your preferred consistency. You can also use a cornstarch slurry or more potato chunks.
- Always cool leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor for your next indulgent meal. Reheat gently to enjoy the soup the next day.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper for a simple yet effective flavor enhancement.
- Consider roasting the diced onions and garlic before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor profile.
Preparing the Perfect Dish
An Outback Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup bowl pairs perfectly with crusty bread and is ideal for dipping into the creamy broth. Complement the soup's richness with a light, refreshing green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the meal.
Complementary Sides for a Complete Outback Experience
To create a dining experience reminiscent of Outback Steakhouse, serve the soup with sides that echo the restaurant’s offerings. Sprinkle chopped bacon on top for a smoky crunch and a dash of celery salt to enhance the flavors. Consider an Australian-themed side like 'damper,' a traditional soda bread, to mop up the delicious soup.
For beverage pairings, a cold beer or a glass of full-bodied Chardonnay, similar to selections you might find at Olive Garden, complements the hearty flavors. Finish the meal with a dessert featuring cups of heavy cream, like a rich chocolate mousse or a creamy cheesecake, to round out the Outback-inspired feast.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
For a vegetarian version of the copycat Outback potato soup recipe, omit the crispy bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. Begin by sautéing diced potatoes and yellow onion in olive oil for about 10 minutes.
After the potatoes are tender, bring the soup to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 20 minutes. For vegans, skip the cheese, and when it's time to serve, ladle the soup into bowls without any dairy toppings. A complete vegan adaptation can be ready in just 30 minutes.
Plant-Based Substitutes for Dairy and Bacon
Vegans can still enjoy the creamy texture of this beloved soup by using plant-based cream cheese. Blend the cream cheese with almond or soy milk to mimic the richness of dairy.
For bacon, opt for a vegan bacon substitute that can provide a similar smoky flavor without the meat. These substitutions keep the essence of the Outback Steakhouse flavor while adhering to plant-based dietary preferences.
Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup for Time-Saving Cooks
The Instant Pot is a game-changer for those looking to enjoy baked potatoes in a smooth and creamy soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Add grilled chicken for a protein boost, making the soup a complete meal. The pressure cooker infuses the essence of sharp cheddar cheese throughout the soup, ensuring each spoonful is as indulgent as the last.
How to Adapt the Recipe for an Instant Pot
To make a creamy potato soup in an Instant Pot, start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add diced potatoes and stock. Cook on high pressure for a quick and even cooking process.
Once done, blend the ingredients to achieve a rich and creamy consistency. Serve the bowl of soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions or chives for a touch of freshness.
How to Store
- Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Recipe Notes
For an Outback Steakhouse twist, add a pinch of celery salt to the seasoning. And if you're a fan of Olive Garden, consider using their alfredo sauce for a unique flavor blend. Remember, this soup is especially comforting during the colder months, so it's perfect for fall and winter menus.
As you spoon into your homemade Outback Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup, take a moment to appreciate the creamy delight you've created. This soup isn't just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl, bringing the beloved flavors of Outback into your home.
Each spoonful offers a taste of nostalgia and comfort, perfect for those seeking a homemade meal's coziness. Enjoy the fruits of your culinary efforts and the warmth they bring to your table. Ready to recreate this comfort food masterpiece?
Can you substitute chicken broth with beef broth?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with beef broth in most recipes. The substitution can add a deeper, more robust flavor to soups, stews, and sauces. However, the final dish will have a different flavor profile due to the distinct tastes of chicken and beef broth. It's important to consider the recipe's desired outcome when substituting.
How do you store and reheat leftover baked potato soup?
To store leftover baked potato soup, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. When ready to reheat, you can warm the soup in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Alternatively, for smaller portions, reheating in a microwave-safe bowl is convenient.
Ensure the soup is heated thoroughly before serving. Adding a little water or broth can help maintain a smooth consistency if the soup has thickened in the fridge.
How to thicken potato soup?
To thicken potato soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, incorporating the potato pieces to create a thicker base. Another method is to mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with water to make a slurry and stir it into the soup.
Let the soup simmer until it reaches the desired thickness. The starch from additional potato masher-crushed potatoes can also help thicken the soup effectively.
Is Outback Potato Soup vegetarian?
The vegetarian status of Outback Potato Soup depends on the specific ingredients used in the recipe. Traditional recipes might include meat-based ingredients like bacon or chicken broth, making it non-vegetarian.
However, a copycat Outback Potato Soup recipe can be adapted to be vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of meat broth and omitting any meat products, focusing on the creamy potato base and vegetable garnishes.
Copycat Outback Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Wire whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups diced onions
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 4 large baked potatoes, cut into chunks of potato
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Additional toppings such as crispy bacon, green onion tops, and a dollop of sour cream
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium-high heat and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onion mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to rid the flour mixture of its raw taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring that the mixture remains smooth and free of lumps. Add the alfredo sauce and milk, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the diced potatoes to the soup, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Using a potato masher or immersion blender, slightly thicken the soup by crushing some of the potato pieces. For a thicker soup, you can mash more potatoes.
- Stir in the jack and cheddar cheeses until melted and smoothly combined into the soup. Add the seasoning salt, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Once the soup has reached the desired consistency, remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with green onion tops, bits of bacon, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot.
Notes
- For an Outback Steakhouse twist, add a pinch of celery salt to the seasoning. And if you're a fan of Olive Garden, consider using their alfredo sauce for a unique flavor blend. Remember, this soup is especially comforting during the colder months, so it's perfect for fall and winter menus.
- As you spoon into your homemade Outback Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup, take a moment to appreciate the creamy delight you've created. This soup isn't just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl, bringing the beloved flavors of Outback into your home.
- Each spoonful offers a taste of nostalgia and comfort, perfect for those seeking a homemade meal's coziness. Enjoy the fruits of your culinary efforts and the warmth they bring to your table. Ready to recreate this comfort food masterpiece?
More Outback Steakhouse Copycat Recipes
Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe
Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Outback Steakhouse Steak Seasoning Recipe
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