OUTBACK POTATO SOUP

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This OUTBACK POTATO SOUP is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s my go-to comfort food when I want something hearty yet simple to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this soup always hits the spot and brings everyone together.

What makes this recipe even more special is its creamy texture paired with crispy toppings. You can enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course with some crusty bread. Trust me; once you try this OUTBACK POTATO SOUP, you’ll want to keep it in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of cooking time, this soup is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves potatoes, and the creamy flavor will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Deliciously Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Heartwarming Flavor: The combination of creamy potatoes and savory broth creates an irresistible comfort food that feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This OUTBACK POTATO SOUP calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Gather these essentials, and we’re ready to create something delicious together.

For the Soup

• water (enough to cover the potatoes and boil)
• 4 large russet or golden potatoes
• 8 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 1/2 cups chicken stock (you can also use chicken broth)
• 1 cup cold water
• 3/4 cup cheddar cheese (plus more for topping optional)
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup green onion (diced)
• 1/2 sweet yellow onion (diced optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a little kick.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while simmering for an aromatic twist.
• Creamy Alternatives: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a lighter version that still tastes amazing.

How to Make OUTBACK POTATO SOUP

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them until they’re tender—this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, set them aside for later use. This step lays the foundation for our creamy soup!

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

In a large pot, combine the broth, diced onions, salt, pepper, and water. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of flour until you have a smooth paste. Allow this roux to cook for a couple of minutes; it’s essential because it helps thicken our soup without any lumps.

Step 4: Combine Roux with Broth

Slowly incorporate the roux into your simmering broth while whisking continuously. This step is crucial as it transforms our broth into a creamy delight—so keep whisking!

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Pour in approximately 3/4 cups of heavy cream while stirring gently. This addition enriches our soup and gives it that luxurious texture we crave.

Step 6: Final Simmer

Let your soup simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives all those wonderful flavors time to blend perfectly together.

Step 7: Add Potatoes

Once thickened to your liking, gently add those diced potatoes back into the pot. Stir well so they are evenly distributed throughout your creamy mixture.

Step 8: Serve with Love

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with generous sprinkles of cheese, crispy bacon bits, and finely chopped green onions. These toppings not only add flavor but also make each bowl look inviting!

Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation

Serve hot and enjoy every spoonful of this comforting OUTBACK POTATO SOUP with its delightful garnishes—perfect for sharing around the table with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making OUTBACK POTATO SOUP

Making a delicious and creamy potato soup is a breeze with these helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience!

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet or golden potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold up well during cooking and create a creamy texture that’s perfect for soups.
• Cook bacon until crispy: If you’re adding bacon, ensure it’s cooked until crispy. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Whisk continuously: When incorporating the roux into the broth, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This will ensure a smooth, velvety consistency in your soup that everyone will love.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: After simmering, always taste your soup before serving. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to elevate the flavors further.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to deepen, making it even tastier when reheated!

How to Serve OUTBACK POTATO SOUP

Serving your OUTBACK POTATO SOUP can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Colby-Monterey Jack cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese on top adds a gooey richness that melts into the warm soup.
• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh, vibrant color and a burst of flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup.
• Crispy bacon bits: For those who enjoy bacon, crumbled crispy bacon offers a savory crunch that elevates each spoonful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread pairs perfectly with potato soup, providing a crunchy contrast and a delicious way to soak up every drop.
• Simple Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup while adding some nutritious elements.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes an excellent side; its slight sweetness complements the savory flavors of potato soup nicely.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients, making your meal more wholesome without overshadowing the star dish.

Enjoy creating your OUTBACK POTATO SOUP and serving it up in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

This OUTBACK POTATO SOUP is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to have a comforting bowl of goodness ready whenever you need it. The flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, so it’s an ideal dish to cook ahead of time!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make OUTBACK POTATO SOUP without bacon?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy plant-based bacon or sautéed mushrooms for that extra flavor.

How long does OUTBACK POTATO SOUP last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last 3-4 days in your refrigerator.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?

Yes! Vegetable broth is a great alternative that will still provide plenty of flavor while keeping this dish meat-free.

What type of potatoes are best for OUTBACK POTATO SOUP?

Russet or golden potatoes work wonderfully due to their creamy texture when cooked.

How can I thicken my OUTBACK POTATO SOUP further?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, try adding more flour to your roux or incorporating blended potato chunks back into the soup.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this OUTBACK POTATO SOUP as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort on any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and any variations you try! Happy cooking!