The Outback Onion Soup is an Australian-inspired twist on the traditional French onion soup. Famous for its rich, savory flavor and bold, caramelized onions, this hearty soup has a special place in the hearts of many, especially those who frequent Outback Steakhouse or love a good, comforting bowl of soup. Whether you’re familiar with this dish or you’re about to embark on a culinary journey to recreate it at home, the depth of flavor, the gooey melted cheese, and the crunchy bread are sure to leave you wanting more.
This version of the recipe aims to bring a bit of the outback right into your kitchen with layers of savory onions, rich broth, and the perfect cheesy topping. Let’s break it all down so you can cook up your own bowl of this iconic dish.
Outback Onion Soup Recipe
Outback Onion Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It starts with the slow-cooked onions, which are deeply caramelized until they release their natural sweetness. The base of the soup is rich and flavorful, thanks to the addition of beef broth and herbs. Then comes the ultimate indulgence: melted cheese and crispy bread. The combination of all these elements creates a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Here’s how you can make this mouthwatering soup from scratch!
Ingredients Needed
To make the Outback Onion Soup, you’ll need a mix of common kitchen ingredients, as well as a few that add the authentic flavors. Here’s the list:
- 3 large onions (yellow or sweet onions work best)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 4 cups beef broth (or a combination of beef and chicken broth for depth)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but it adds a great layer of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps in caramelizing the onions)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds savory depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices French baguette (or any hearty bread)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (for that melty, gooey topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for extra stretch and creaminess)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Prepare the onions: Peel and slice the onions thinly. The key to caramelizing them perfectly is slicing them evenly, so they cook uniformly.
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Caramelize The Onions
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil.
- Once melted, toss in the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and soft (this takes about 25-30 minutes).
- Add the sugar halfway through to help the onions caramelize.
- Add garlic and wine: After the onions have softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (if using) and allow it to reduce by half, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer the soup base: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then stir in the thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 15-20 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Prepare the bread: While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden brown and crispy (about 10 minutes). You can also grill them on a pan for quicker results.
- Assemble the soup: Ladle the hot onion soup into individual oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted bread slice on top of each bowl, and generously sprinkle the cheese mixture (Gruyère and mozzarella) over the bread.
- Melt the cheese: Transfer the bowls to the oven or broiler (on high heat) for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the bowls from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose that contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the soup. Here’s a closer look at some of the key ingredients:
- Onions: The heart and soul of this soup. Onions bring natural sweetness when caramelized, which balances the savory broth. Yellow onions are most commonly used, but you can also use sweet onions for a slightly milder flavor.
- Beef Broth: This rich, hearty liquid serves as the base for the soup. It provides depth and a meaty richness that complements the sweet onions.
- Gruyère Cheese: Known for its nutty, slightly salty flavor, Gruyère is the star cheese in this dish. It melts beautifully and creates that perfect, gooey topping.
- Mozzarella Cheese: For added creaminess and stretch. When combined with Gruyère, it gives you the perfect cheesy finish.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This condiment adds an extra layer of umami to the soup, balancing the sweetness of the onions and adding complexity to the broth.
- Thyme: A fragrant herb that adds subtle earthiness, thyme complements the caramelized onions and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Expert Tips
To ensure your Outback Onion Soup turns out perfect every time, here are some expert tips:
- Slow and steady wins the race: Caramelizing the onions is the most crucial part of this recipe. Don’t rush it! The longer you cook them, the more complex and rich the flavor becomes.
- Use a good-quality broth: Since the broth makes up a large portion of the soup, using a high-quality beef broth (or homemade broth, if possible) will elevate the flavor dramatically.
- Layer the cheese: For the ultimate cheesy topping, don’t just pile on one layer of cheese. Use a generous base layer of Gruyère, then add a bit of mozzarella for that stretch and creaminess.
- Toast the bread well: A good, hearty slice of bread is key. Make sure it’s crispy enough to hold up under the weight of the soup and melted cheese. A soft, flimsy piece of bread will just get soggy.
- Don’t skip the wine: If you’re unsure about adding wine, just give it a try. It adds an incredible depth of flavor and helps balance out the richness of the broth and onions.
Recipe Variations
While the traditional Outback Onion Soup recipe is already delicious, there are several variations you can try to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian version: Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish. You can also use plant-based cheese for the topping.
- Spicy version: Add a little heat by incorporating some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the soup base. You can also use spicy pepper jack cheese instead of Gruyère for an extra kick.
- Add herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, bay leaves, or sage to further enhance the flavor of the soup.
- French onion soup style: If you prefer the classic French onion soup flavor, you can skip the Worcestershire sauce and reduce the wine for a more delicate profile. Top with just Gruyère for a more authentic taste.
Final Words
This Outback Onion Soup recipe takes the traditional flavors of French onion soup and elevates them to new heights. With its rich, caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a cozy bowl on a cold evening, this recipe will surely hit the spot. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make!
FAQs
What Is The Outback Onion Soup Recipe?
The Outback onion soup is a rich, flavorful soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and a mix of seasonings, topped with melted cheese and crunchy croutons. It’s similar to French onion soup but with a distinctive, sweeter onion flavor and a hearty, savory broth.
What Type Of Onions Should I Use For Outback Onion Soup?
For the best results, use yellow onions, as they provide a balanced sweetness and depth of flavor when caramelized. Sweet onions can also be used for an even milder, sweeter taste.
How Do I Caramelize The Onions For This Recipe?
To caramelize onions, slice them thinly and cook them over low to medium heat with some butter or oil. Stir occasionally for about 30-40 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and soft, releasing their natural sugars and developing a rich, sweet flavor.
Can I Make The Outback Onion Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make the soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of beef broth and ensuring the croutons and cheese are vegetarian-friendly. You can use a vegetarian-friendly cheese like Swiss or Gruyère.
What Type Of Cheese Is Used In Outback Onion Soup?
Outback onion soup is traditionally topped with a mixture of melted mozzarella and provolone cheese. This combination melts well and creates a rich, gooey topping that complements the savory soup.
Can I Make Outback Onion Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Cook the onions and broth mixture, then store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and top with croutons and cheese before broiling.
How Can I Make The Croutons For Outback Onion Soup?
To make croutons, slice a baguette or another sturdy bread into cubes. Toss the cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
How Do I Broil The Cheese On The Soup?
To broil the cheese, ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with croutons, then cover with a generous layer of cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Can I Use Pre-made Broth For Outback Onion Soup?
Yes, you can use store-bought beef or vegetable broth for convenience. However, homemade broth will add a richer flavor. If using pre-made broth, opt for a high-quality, low-sodium version to control the soup’s salt content.
What Makes Outback Onion Soup Different From French Onion Soup?
While both soups feature caramelized onions and a cheesy topping, Outback onion soup typically has a more robust, savory flavor with a slightly sweeter taste from the onions. It also tends to be thicker, thanks to the addition of a more substantial broth base and melted cheese.