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Outback Potato Soup Recipe

4.7 from 79 reviews

This Outback Potato Soup recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of soup, perfect for chilly days. Made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth dairy-infused broth thickened with a homemade roux, this hearty soup is packed with warm flavors and satisfying textures. The addition of green onions and optional yellow onions adds a subtle depth, making it a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large russet or golden potatoes
  • 8 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken stock (or chicken broth)
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 3/4 cups cheddar cheese (plus more for topping, optional)
  • 3/4 cups 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
  • Water (enough to cover the potatoes and boil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them in enough water to cover until tender. Once cooked, drain and set aside for later use.
  2. Simmer Broth and Onions: In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, diced onions (both green and yellow if using), salt, pepper, and 1 cup cold water. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Make Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, stirring constantly until a smooth paste forms. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes to remove any raw flour taste, but do not let it brown.
  4. Thicken Soup Base: Slowly add the roux into the simmering broth mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. This process will thicken the soup, giving it a creamy texture.
  5. Add Cream: Gently stir in about 3/4 cups of heavy whipping cream, enriching the soup and adding luxurious creaminess.
  6. Simmer Further: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop the flavors further.
  7. Incorporate Potatoes: Add the boiled diced potatoes to the thickened soup and stir well to distribute evenly throughout.
  8. Serve with Toppings: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each with a generous sprinkle of Colby-Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, crumbled crispy bacon, and diced green onions. These toppings add flavorful crunch and color.
  9. Enjoy: Serve the soup immediately while hot, enjoying its comforting and rich flavors.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
  • To enhance flavor, you can sauté the diced yellow onion before adding it to the broth.
  • Additional toppings such as sour cream or chives can provide extra creaminess and flavor.
  • Boiling the potatoes separately helps prevent the soup from becoming too thick or starchy.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, you can lightly mash some of the potatoes in the soup before serving.

Keywords: potato soup, creamy potato soup, bacon potato soup, comfort food, rich potato soup, outback style soup, easy potato soup