There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of potato soup. Outback Steakhouse made their creamy potato soup legendary—it’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavors that instantly warm your soul.
The good news? You don’t have to step into the restaurant to enjoy it. With a few pantry staples and some chef-approved tips, you can recreate this restaurant-style potato soup right at home. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this recipe delivers flavor and comfort in every spoonful.
⭐ What Makes Outback Potato Soup So Special?
Unlike ordinary potato soups, Outback’s version is ultra-creamy with just the right balance of cheese, bacon, and savory seasonings. The starchy Russet potatoes give it body, while the roux (butter + flour) adds that restaurant-level thickness. Finally, toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and green onions transform it from simple soup into an indulgent comfort meal.
🥔 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a classic base recipe for six servings.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | 4 large | Yukon Gold also works |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Or vegetable broth |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Unsalted |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | For the roux |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Whole milk for lighter version |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Bacon | 4 strips | Cooked & crumbled |
| Green onions | 2 stalks | For garnish |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside. Keep 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pot for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add butter to the pot. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant (3–4 minutes).
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour into the pot, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until it forms a golden paste. This will thicken your soup.
4. Add Broth & Potatoes
Slowly whisk in chicken broth to prevent lumps. Add diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
For silky texture, blend with an immersion blender. For a chunkier soup, mash only half the potatoes and leave some whole.
6. Stir in Cream & Cheese
Add heavy cream and cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
7. Season & Serve
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Garnish bowls with bacon, extra cheese, and green onions.
🔥 Chef’s Pro Tips
- Roast the garlic before adding for a sweeter, richer flavor.
- Add a splash of dry white wine after the onions for depth.
- For smokiness, stir in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
- To make it thicker, simmer uncovered for 5–10 extra minutes.
🥗 Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Outback Potato Soup pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread or garlic breadsticks
- Garden salad with vinaigrette for freshness
- Grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal
- Drinks: a Chardonnay, lager beer, or iced tea complement it perfectly
🍴 Variations & Adaptations
Healthier Options
- Replace half the cream with Greek yogurt for tang and fewer calories.
- Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
- Swap bacon with turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian.
Flavor Twists
- Loaded baked potato style: Add sour cream, chives, and extra cheese.
- Spicy kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Veggie boost: Mix in broccoli, corn, or carrots.
- Cheese lovers: Try sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or Monterey Jack.
🧑⚕️ Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 22g (12g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
👉 Potatoes provide Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while onions and garlic add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
📖 A Bit of History
Outback Steakhouse, founded in 1988 in Tampa, Florida, is known for its Australian-themed dining and hearty American food. Their potato soup quickly became a fan favorite for its comfort-food appeal and remains one of the most requested copycat recipes today.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup, store in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
Q2: Can I freeze potato soup?
Yes, but freeze before adding cream and cheese. Add them fresh after reheating for best texture.
Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Q4: What’s the best potato to use?
Russets for creaminess, Yukon Golds for buttery flavor.
🏆 Conclusion
Making Outback Potato Soup at home is easier than you think. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for chilly evenings, dinner parties, or when you just want a bowl of comfort—it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home.
So grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy your very own steakhouse-style potato soup right from your kitchen!