Delicious Outback potato soup served in a bowl with toppings

Why Make This Recipe

Outback Potato Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort on chilly days. With its creamy texture, flavorful ingredients, and rich toppings, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal.

How to Make Outback Potato Soup

Ingredients

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

Directions

Begin by dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boiling them until they are tender. Once cooked, set them aside for later use.
In a large pot, combine the broth, diced onions, salt, pepper, and enough cold water to cover. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes to blend the flavors.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste. Cook the roux for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly add the roux to the simmering broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. This will help thicken the soup and make it creamy.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. This adds richness to your soup.
Let the soup simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Once the soup has thickened to your liking, gently add the diced potatoes. Stir well to mix them in.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon bits, and diced green onions for added flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Outback Potato Soup

Serve this comforting soup in bowls, allowing everyone to add their favorite toppings. You can offer extra cheese and bacon on the side, so guests can customize their servings. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Outback Potato Soup

To store any leftover soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Outback Potato Soup

For added flavor, use smoked bacon or mix in some spices like garlic powder or paprika.
Adjust the thickness by adding more or less chicken broth and cream according to your preference.
If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños.

Variation

You can modify this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for extra nutrients and flavors. Another option is to swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different twist on this classic soup.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other potatoes like Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes. Each will give a slightly different taste and texture.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Ensure that all your ingredients, including the broth, are gluten-free.