There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy, rich soup that warms you right down to your soul, and when that soup is a decadent, loaded potato soup, it takes comfort food to a whole new level. One of the best-loved versions of this classic comes from Outback Steakhouse, a place known for its hearty dishes that leave you feeling full and satisfied. The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup has a cult following, with its velvety texture, savory bacon, melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned potatoes. If you’ve ever had it and found yourself dreaming about it days later, you’re not alone!
Lucky for you, this recipe will help you recreate that Outback magic right at home. It’s surprisingly simple to make, and once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try sooner. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this indulgent, comforting recipe that’s sure to impress anyone who loves a good, hearty bowl of soup.
Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Outback Steakhouse’s Loaded Potato Soup is a masterpiece of flavor. Think creamy, velvety mashed potatoes combined with the flavors of rich bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. The combination of textures – from the smoothness of the soup base to the crunchiness of bacon bits – is absolute perfection. This recipe brings the iconic soup right to your kitchen, allowing you to savor it whenever you want. Let’s break it down, so you can bring this delicious dish to life.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into the cooking, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need for this flavorful creation. Below is a list of the ingredients that bring this loaded potato soup to life:
- Russet Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized potatoes): These provide the foundation for the soup’s texture. Their high starch content makes for a creamy and smooth consistency once cooked.
- Bacon (6-8 strips): This crispy, salty delight brings in a smoky flavor that elevates the soup.
- Onions (1 medium onion, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic adds aromatic flavors and a little punch to balance the richness.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups): The liquid base for the soup. It adds depth and helps create a rich flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): This brings the creamy texture and richness that make the soup so indulgent.
- Whole Milk (1 cup): For a smoother consistency and added creaminess.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): The melty, gooey cheese creates a satisfying, cheesy richness.
- Green Onions (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a bit of fresh crunch and a pop of color.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a silky smoothness to the soup.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): To create a roux and thicken the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. These are the simplest seasonings, but they’re absolutely essential in bringing out the best in your ingredients.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to bring this potato soup to life.
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and chop your russet potatoes into small cubes. You don’t have to get them perfect, but try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and boil for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Cook the bacon: While your potatoes are cooking, take a separate pan and cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, set the bacon aside to drain on a paper towel. Once cooled, crumble or chop it into small pieces. This bacon will be sprinkled in the soup for that irresistible crunch.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aromatic fragrance.
- Make the roux: Stir in the flour and cook it with the onions and garlic for about 2 minutes. This helps to create a thick base for your soup. Be sure to stir constantly so it doesn’t burn.
- Combine the broth and potatoes: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring, ensuring everything combines smoothly. Once the potatoes are ready, drain them and add them to the soup pot. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the cream and milk: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir everything well, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it thickens up.
- Mash the potatoes: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the potatoes right in the soup. If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it a bit more. However, if you like a bit of texture, don’t overdo it.
- Finish with cheese, bacon, and green onions: Add in about 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, the crumbled bacon (leave a little for garnish), and some chopped green onions. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes thick and creamy.
- Season to taste: Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed. The flavors will deepen, and the soup should have a rich, savory balance.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with the remaining bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions. You can even add a dollop of sour cream if you want to get extra indulgent.
Ingredient Insights
- Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for a creamy texture in potato soups. Their starch content breaks down when boiled, which helps thicken the soup and create a velvety texture.
- Bacon: Bacon adds not only texture but also that irresistible smoky flavor that everyone loves in a loaded potato soup. Don’t skip this ingredient – it’s what makes the soup truly “loaded”.
- Heavy Cream vs. Milk: The balance between these two is key. Heavy cream contributes to the soup’s richness and smooth texture, while the milk lightens it just enough to prevent it from being overwhelmingly thick.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts into the soup beautifully, giving it that perfect cheesy flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes and cream.
Expert Tips
- Use a potato masher: For the best texture, use a potato masher to mash the potatoes right in the soup. This keeps some chunks intact and adds to the overall heartiness of the soup.
- Don’t rush the bacon: If you want truly crispy bacon bits, cook it slowly over medium heat. The crispy texture will add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Adjust thickness: If you like a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner consistency, add more milk or broth to loosen it up.
- For extra flavor: Consider adding a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of paprika for an added layer of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This soup actually gets better after a day or two. Make it in advance and refrigerate it, letting the flavors deepen over time.
Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: If you want a veggie-packed version, try adding some diced carrots, celery, or even corn to the mix. These will give the soup a bit more color and texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the soup.
- Baked Potato Version: For an even more indulgent version, top your soup with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chives – just like you would on a baked potato.
- Vegetarian: You can make this soup vegetarian by leaving out the bacon. You can even use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich.
Final Words
Loaded potato soup is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, with just the right balance of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh green onions. Whether you’re looking for a dish to serve to guests, a cozy meal for a rainy day, or just a hearty dinner, this Outback Steakhouse-inspired recipe is a guaranteed winner. The best part? It’s easy to make and you don’t have to wait until your next visit to the restaurant to enjoy it.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
To make the Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup, you will need ingredients like potatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, bacon, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic, and seasonings like salt and pepper.
How Do I Prepare The Potatoes For The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
First, peel and cube the potatoes. Then, cook them in a pot with chicken broth until they are fork-tender. Once tender, you can mash some of the potatoes to create a thicker soup texture.
Can I Make The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, the Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the chicken broth and other ingredients do not contain any gluten. Using gluten-free broth and verifying the bacon or seasonings are gluten-free is key.
How Long Does It Take To Make The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
The total time to make the soup is around 45 minutes to 1 hour, including prep time and cooking time. The most time-consuming part is cooking and softening the potatoes.
What Type Of Cheese Should I Use For The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese is the most common cheese used in the recipe to give it a rich, tangy flavor. Some recipes may also use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Can I Substitute Sour Cream In The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly healthier option, or you can use heavy cream for a richer, more indulgent taste. However, the flavor profile will change slightly.
How Can I Make The Soup Thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a potato masher or blend part of the soup mixture in a blender until smooth. This will create a creamy, hearty texture.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftovers Of The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a little extra broth or milk to restore the soup’s original consistency.
Can I Freeze The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, be aware that the texture may change slightly when reheating, especially with the cream and cheese. To freeze, place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
What Toppings Should I Use For The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup?
Traditional toppings for the soup include crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Some people also like to add additional seasoning, such as pepper or paprika, for extra flavor.