Homemade Outback Potato Soup

This Outback-inspired potato soup transforms simple ingredients into pure comfort food magic. The velvety smooth texture paired with tender potato chunks creates an irresistible bowl that captures the essence of the famous steakhouse version. Rich cream, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon combine to make this soul-warming soup a memorable addition to your recipe collection.

My family requests this soup nearly every week during winter. The moment that aroma of sautéing onions and potatoes fills the kitchen, everyone gravitates toward the stove, eager for their bowl of creamy comfort.

Kitchen Essentials

• Russet potatoes: Their high starch content creates the perfect creamy texture while maintaining enough structure to avoid turning mushy
• Heavy cream: Creates that signature rich, velvety base that sets this soup apart from basic potato soups
• Sharp cheddar: Adds the perfect tangy depth that balances the cream without overpowering the potato flavor
• Bacon: Choose thick-cut varieties for the best texture and robust smoky flavor
• Yellow onion: Provides an essential aromatic foundation that deepens the overall taste profile
• Chicken stock: Use low-sodium options to better control the final seasoning

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Recipe Creation Guide

Potato Preparation:

Peel and dice potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. Place in cold water to prevent browning while you prep other ingredients.

Bacon Base Building:

Cook bacon in your soup pot until perfectly crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.

Aromatics Development:

Sauté diced onions in bacon fat until translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Roux Creation:

Add butter and flour, whisking constantly until the mixture turns golden brown and smells nutty, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Liquid Integration:

Gradually pour in chicken stock while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Potato Simmering:

Add prepared potatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until fork-tender but not falling apart, about 15-20 minutes.

Finishing Touches:

Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Growing up, my grandmother always added a pinch of nutmeg to her potato soup. This secret ingredient enhances the cream's richness without being detectable. I've carried on this tradition, and it never fails to earn compliments from guests who can't quite identify that special something.

Perfect Pairings

Transform this hearty soup into a complete meal by serving it alongside crusty sourdough bread for dipping. A crisp green salad dressed with light vinaigrette provides the perfect contrast to the soup's richness. For extra indulgence, top each bowl with extra crispy bacon, freshly snipped chives, and a dollop of sour cream. This combination creates a restaurant-worthy presentation right at your dinner table.

Customization Ideas

Make this soup your own by experimenting with different cheese combinations like smoked gouda or sharp white cheddar. For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream and turkey bacon for regular bacon. Vegetarians can skip the bacon altogether and use vegetable stock, adding smoked paprika for that coveted smoky flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe incredibly versatile for any dietary preference.

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Keeping It Fresh

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the original consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the dairy to separate. For longer storage, freeze the soup without dairy products and add them fresh when reheating.

This potato soup recipe has become my signature dish for good reason. It combines simple ingredients with proper technique to create something truly special. The key lies in taking your time with each step, from properly developing the roux to gradually incorporating the liquids. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this soup never fails to impress with its rich, comforting flavors and silky smooth texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the soup thicker?

Add more flour to your roux or cook the soup longer to reduce and thicken. You can also mash some potatoes against the pot's side.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, make it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding milk to adjust consistency.

→ Is there a way to make this vegetarian?

Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon garnish for a vegetarian version.

→ What potatoes work best for this soup?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down easily and help create a creamy texture.

→ Can I freeze this potato soup?

While possible, freezing isn't recommended as dairy-based soups can separate and change texture when thawed.