OUTBACK POTATO SOUP: A Southern Favorite
When you think of a cozy meal that brings everyone together, Outback Potato Soup might just be the warm hug in a bowl you’ve been looking for. This hearty dish is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy goodness that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With every spoonful, you’ll be reminded of those comforting flavors that make home feel like home.
Why you’ll love this dish
This potato soup isn’t just easy to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying and budget-friendly. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or for serving a crowd during the holidays. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, making it a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
"This soup is pure comfort! My family asks for it every week, and it’s so easy to whip up!" — A happy home cook
Step-by-step overview
Cooking this creamy delight is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. After dicing your potatoes, you’ll bring everything together in one big pot for a wholesome and delicious experience. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together!
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What you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll gather to create this delicious 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 (chicken broth can be used as a substitute)
- 1 cup cold water
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese (plus more for topping, if desired)
- 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
Feel free to swap out the cheese or bacon based on your dietary preferences. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian version, consider using vegetable broth and omitting the bacon.
Directions to follow
- Begin by dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boiling them until they’re tender. Once cooked, set them aside for later use.
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced onions, salt, pepper, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and allow it to cook for about 20 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of flour until a smooth paste forms. Allow the roux to cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly incorporate the roux into the simmering broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This will help thicken the soup and give it a creamy consistency.
- Pour in approximately 3/4 cups of heavy cream, stirring gently as you do so. This will further enrich the soup and add a luxurious creaminess.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.
- Once the soup has simmered and thickened to your liking, gently add the diced potatoes. Stir well to distribute them evenly throughout the soup.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, crispy bacon bits, and finely chopped green onions. These toppings add both flavor and visual appeal to the dish.
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy potato soup with its delightful garnishes.
Best ways to enjoy it
This soup can be enjoyed all on its own, or you can elevate the experience with some delicious sides. Consider pairing it with warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream on top can also add a delightful tang!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though that might be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess. You can also freeze the soup for up to a month; just be aware that dairy-based soups can sometimes separate after freezing, so stir well when reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the potatoes instead of boiling them.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go. A little extra salt or pepper can make a huge difference.
Recipe variations
Get creative! Try adding different vegetables such as corn or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. You could also swap out the cheddar cheese for something smoky or spicy like pepper jack to change things up.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation and cooking time combined is about an hour, making it perfect for a relaxed evening at home.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener instead.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat on the stove for the best results.
Outback Potato Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them until tender. Set aside.
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced onions, salt, pepper, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of flour until a smooth paste forms. Cook roux for a couple of minutes.
- Slowly incorporate the roux into the simmering broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Pour in approximately 3/4 cups of heavy cream, stirring gently.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once thickened, gently add the diced potatoes and stir well.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
- Serve hot, enjoying the comforting flavors.