Outback-Style Creamy Potato Soup

This Outback-Style Creamy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights when you need a warm and satisfying meal. The rich, velvety base is infused with flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy potatoes, making every spoonful a delicious treat. The combination of textures—from the smooth, cheesy broth to the bits of potato and crunchy bacon—creates a perfectly balanced bowl of goodness. This recipe is easy to prepare and customizable to your taste. Whether you like your soup extra creamy or with chunks of potato, this dish delivers all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato in soup form. Serve it with warm bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s both cozy and indulgent!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, sliced

Directions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to break up some of the potatoes while keeping the soup slightly chunky.
6. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
7. Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, and extra shredded cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Background & History

Potato soup has been a staple comfort food for centuries, with origins tracing back to European cuisine. Countries like Ireland, Germany, and France have long embraced potatoes as a primary ingredient in their traditional dishes. The concept of a rich, creamy potato soup became popular in the United States, especially in the South, where hearty meals are a way of life. This particular version of potato soup is inspired by the famous Outback Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup, known for its velvety texture, rich flavors, and delicious toppings. It’s a restaurant favorite because it perfectly captures the flavors of a loaded baked potato but in a comforting soup form. Now, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen with just a few simple ingredients.

Why This Recipe is the Best

1. Rich and Creamy Texture – The combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and melted cheddar cheese creates a smooth, luxurious texture that’s both hearty and indulgent.
2. Deep, Savory Flavor – The addition of garlic, onions, and smoked paprika elevates the taste beyond a simple potato soup, making every bite flavorful.
3. Easy to Make at Home – This recipe uses common pantry ingredients and doesn’t require fancy techniques, making it beginner-friendly.
4. Customizable to Your Preference – Whether you like your soup chunky or smooth, you can adjust the texture to your liking.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep – This soup stores well and can be reheated throughout the week, making it an excellent option for batch cooking.
6. Budget-Friendly – Potatoes, onions, and broth are affordable ingredients, making this a cost-effective dish for feeding a family.
7. A Crowd-Pleaser – The combination of bacon, cheese, and creamy potatoes ensures that even picky eaters will love this soup.

Health Benefits of Potato Soup

Although this is an indulgent recipe, it still offers some nutritional benefits:

• Rich in Potassium – Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
• Contains Essential Vitamins – Potatoes contain vitamin C, B6, and fiber, which support immune function and digestion.
• Protein from Dairy and Bacon – The cheese, milk, and bacon add protein, making the soup more satiating.
• Can be Made Healthier – If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use a combination of milk and broth to reduce calories.

Tips for Making the Perfect Potato Soup

1. Use Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes – These varieties have a creamy texture that blends well into the soup. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they don’t break down as easily.
2. Thicken Naturally – Instead of adding too much flour, let the potatoes cook until they naturally break down, giving the soup a rich consistency.
3. Add Cheese at the End – To prevent clumping, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese after removing the pot from the heat.
4. Balance the Flavors – A dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add depth to the soup, preventing it from being too one-dimensional.
5. Control the Texture – If you like your soup extra smooth, blend it completely with an immersion blender. For a chunkier texture, mash only a portion of the potatoes.

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Version – Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms or extra vegetables for more texture.
• Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Overload – Mix in a combination of sharp cheddar, gouda, and parmesan for extra cheesiness.
• Loaded Baked Potato Style – Serve with extra sour cream, chives, and crispy fried onions for a true baked potato experience.
• Bacon Swap – Instead of bacon, try crumbled sausage or turkey bacon for a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

1. Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
2. Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The ultimate comfort food pairing!
4. Roasted Vegetables – Add some extra nutrition by serving with a side of roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but since it contains dairy, the texture may change slightly. To fix this, stir well after reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

Conclusion

This Outback-Style Creamy Potato Soup is everything you could want in a comfort dish—creamy, cheesy, savory, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to be a hit. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, it’s no wonder this recipe remains a favorite. Now that you have all the details, it’s time to grab a spoon and enjoy a warm bowl of this homemade goodness!