Outback Potato Soup Recipe
Introduction
Outback-Style Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting classic perfect for chilly days. This rich soup combines tender potatoes, sharp cheddar, and savory seasonings to create a satisfying bowl of warmth. With indulgent toppings like crispy bacon and green onions, it’s an irresistible treat for family and friends.

Ingredients
- Water (enough to cover the potatoes for boiling)
- 4 large russet or golden potatoes
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup cold water
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them in enough water to cover until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, diced sweet yellow onion (if using), salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cold water. Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes to develop flavor.
- Step 3: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until a smooth roux forms. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes without browning.
- Step 4: Gradually whisk the roux into the simmering soup base, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Step 5: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and continue to simmer the soup for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 6: Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the soup. Heat through for several minutes but avoid breaking the potatoes apart.
- Step 7: Serve the soup hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, crisp bacon bits, and diced green onions for added flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, add a splash of sour cream or swap half the chicken stock for vegetable stock to suit dietary preferences.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some potato pieces before mashing and stir them back in at the end.
- Use smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock and omit bacon toppings.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a creamy texture. Avoid boiling after reheating to prevent curdling. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, russet or golden potatoes work best as they become soft and creamy when cooked, but Yukon Gold or even red potatoes can be used if preferred, though the texture may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream and butter with coconut milk and dairy-free margarine or oils. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether, though the soup will have a different texture and flavor.
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Outback Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Outback Potato Soup is a rich and creamy comfort food classic inspired by the popular dish served at Outback Steakhouse. Featuring tender boiled potatoes in a velvety cheddar cheese and heavy cream base thickened with a buttery roux, this hearty soup offers indulgent flavor with a smooth texture. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions, it’s perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 large russet or golden potatoes
- Water (enough to cover the potatoes for boiling)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup cold water
- 1/2 sweet yellow onion, diced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Roux
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
Finishing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup green onion, diced
- Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Boil until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Simmer Soup Base: In a large pot, combine chicken stock, diced sweet yellow onion (if using), salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cold water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Make Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until a smooth, golden roux forms. Continue cooking the roux for 2–3 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Incorporate Roux: Gradually whisk the roux into the simmering soup base, stirring continuously until the soup thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt. Simmer the soup gently for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop flavors.
- Fold in Potatoes: Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the thickened soup base, ensuring they are coated evenly without breaking apart.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and diced green onions for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can omit the sweet yellow onion for a milder flavor or sauté it before adding to the broth for more depth.
- Crispy bacon bits add wonderful smokiness but can be left out or substituted with a vegetarian bacon alternative.
- Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of flour or cream to suit your preference.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling.
- For added richness, consider adding a dollop of sour cream when serving (not included in original recipe).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Outback Potato Soup, creamy potato soup, loaded potato soup, comfort food, cheddar cheese potato soup, hearty soup, bacon potato soup

