If you have ever found yourself craving a bowl of warm, creamy comfort that feels like a big, cozy hug, the Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe is your new go-to. This recipe recreates the rich, velvety soup packed with tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese that Outback is famous for. It’s everything you love about that classic restaurant dish, but made right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and heartfelt care. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together to create the ultimate creamy soup base. Each element contributes a unique touch—whether it’s the richness of butter and cream, the savoriness of bacon, or the sharp bite of cheddar cheese—making the soup both hearty and indulgent.

Water: Enough to cover the potatoes for boiling, essential for cooking them to tender perfection.
4 large russet or golden potatoes: These starchy potatoes provide the perfect creamy texture when softened.
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a smoky crunch for contrast and flavor depth.
2 1/2 cups chicken stock (or broth): Forms the flavorful soup base, giving it hearty warmth.
1 cup cold water: Balances the soup consistency without diluting flavor.
3/4 cups cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Sharp and melty, it enriches the soup with classic cheesiness.
3/4 cups heavy whipping cream: Adds lush creaminess for that silky mouthfeel.
1/2 cup butter: Creates the roux base with flour, providing thickness and richness.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Works with butter to thicken the soup smoothly.
1/4 cup green onion, diced: A bright, fresh garnish that adds a gentle pop of flavor and color.
1/2 sweet yellow onion, diced (optional): Imparts subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and spice, balancing the richness.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in enough water to cover completely until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This ensures they maintain some texture when added later. Once done, drain and set aside; these will be folded into the soup near the end to keep their integrity.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth and Onions

In a large pot, combine your chicken stock, diced sweet onions (if using), salt, pepper, and cold water. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle and the onions to soften fully, creating a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Make the Roux

While your broth simmers, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste. Cook this roux for two or three minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste, which will keep your soup deliciously smooth and rich without any graininess.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Slowly pour the roux into the simmering broth while whisking constantly. This technique prevents lumps from forming and gives your soup that silky, creamy texture you’ll love. Watch as the broth thickens, turning into a luscious base for adding the creamy dairy elements.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy whipping cream carefully, stirring gently to blend it all together. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s melted smoothly into the soup. This step transforms your broth into a rich, indulgent treat that’s irresistibly cheesy with every spoonful.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer helps all the ingredients bond beautifully while thickening the soup just right. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 7: Add the Potatoes and Finish

Finally, fold in the cooked diced potatoes and stir gently to distribute them evenly. Your Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe is almost ready to serve. Ladle into bowls, and get ready for the delicious finale—your garnishes!

How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches make this soup truly shine. Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top for that perfect crunch and smoky burst. Add a generous handful of Colby-Monterey Jack cheese or extra cheddar to add melty, cheesy goodness. A scattering of fresh diced green onions brightens up the flavors and adds lovely color, making every bite more exciting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides like freshly baked bread or warm dinner rolls. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup and adds refreshing balance to your meal. For something heartier, try pairing it with grilled chicken or a light sandwich for a complete dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, cozy presentation that’s as functional as it is charming. You can also top it with extra crispy bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to add visual interest and enhance flavor layers. These simple touches make serving this soup an experience, especially at gatherings or chilly evenings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing to maintain its creamy texture. When ready, give it a gentle stir before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the texture of potatoes and cream can change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding cheese toppings and garnishes. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen it up. Avoid reheating in the microwave to preserve the soup’s luscious creaminess and avoid hot spots.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Russet or golden potatoes are best because they become tender without turning mushy. Waxy potatoes like red potatoes hold their shape differently and may affect the soup’s creaminess, but you can experiment if you prefer a firmer texture.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit the bacon to create a delicious vegetarian version. You might want to add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor to replace the bacon’s depth.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based milk or cream substitute and a vegan butter alternative. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor if you want to keep that classic taste, but it will alter the traditional character slightly.

How thick should the soup be?

Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe should have a thick but pourable consistency. It’s creamy and hearty without being overly gloopy, with the potatoes adding body and texture to each bite.

Why add flour and butter at the beginning?

The butter and flour form a roux, which is the classic thickening agent in many creamy soups. It ensures your soup has that signature velvety texture without graininess, creating a perfect base for adding cream and cheese later.

Final Thoughts

This Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup Recipe is one of those ultimate comfort dishes that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction with each spoonful. Whether you’re feeding family on a chilly night or craving something nourishing and indulgent, this recipe delivers all the rich flavors you love in a cozy, homemade way. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite soup to share again and again.