There’s something incredibly comforting about a rich, creamy potato soup, especially one that reminds you of your favorite restaurant. The Outback Steakhouse Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a legendary dish, known for its velvety texture, hearty chunks of potato, and savory toppings like cheese, bacon, and green onions. While recreating restaurant favorites at home can seem daunting, this “Outback Steakhouse Inspired Potato Soup” recipe aims to capture that signature flavor and comforting warmth right in your own kitchen. It’s a perfect dish for a chilly evening, a cozy family dinner, or a comforting meal when you need a little indulgence.
This recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks while delivering on the rich, satisfying taste that makes Outback’s version so popular. We’ll focus on key ingredients and techniques that contribute to its signature creaminess and depth of flavor. The beauty of a potato soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adjust the consistency to your liking, from a thick, stew-like soup to a smoother, more refined bisque. The toppings are where you can truly customize it to your taste, adding as much or as little cheese, bacon, and other delights as your heart desires.
The Secret to a Creamy Potato Soup
The hallmark of a great potato soup is its creamy texture. Achieving this doesn’t necessarily require heavy cream, though it certainly helps. Our recipe will utilize a combination of techniques to ensure a luxurious mouthfeel:
- Proper Potato Preparation: Using the right type of potato and cooking it until tender is crucial. Russet potatoes are excellent for this as they break down easily, contributing to the soup’s thickness.
- Roux or Thickener: A simple roux (butter and flour) provides a stable base for the soup, preventing it from becoming watery and ensuring a consistent creaminess.
- Dairy Components: Milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream will add richness and a silky finish. The choice depends on how indulgent you want your soup to be.
- Blending (Optional): For an extra smooth soup, a quick blend with an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender can achieve that restaurant-quality consistency.
Conclusion
This Outback Steakhouse Inspired Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Whether you’re craving a taste of your favorite restaurant dish or simply looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, this potato soup delivers on all fronts. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort that will transport you straight to the Outback, without ever leaving your kitchen.
Outback Steakhouse Inspired Potato Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the diced onion and celery to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of the hot soup liquid to create a slurry. Stir this back into the pot to help thicken the soup. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, partially mash some of the potatoes to create a thicker consistency while leaving some chunks for texture.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and dried thyme. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and extra shredded cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
