If there’s one bowl of comfort food you absolutely cannot miss, it has to be My Favorite Creamy Outback Potato Soup Recipe You Have to Try! Recipe. This soup is a rich, velvety symphony of flavors where crispy bacon meets tender russet potatoes, all tied together with luscious cream and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul while feeling indulgent without being complicated in the kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a meal to impress friends, this soup delivers every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, classic ingredients that work in perfect harmony to create a rich, creamy soup. Each component plays an essential role—whether adding depth, creaminess, or savory notes—making this an easy but impressive dish to prepare.
- Bacon (6 slices, chopped): Adds smoky crunch and savory depth that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Small onion (diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base for the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, fragrant layer of flavor that wakes up the soup.
- Russet potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced): The heart of the soup, delivering fluffy texture and body.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Acts as the thickening agent, creating that luscious creaminess.
- Chicken broth (3 cups): Infuses savory richness and keeps the soup light yet flavorful.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds a smooth, creamy element without overpowering the potatoes.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Elevates the texture to decadently silky perfection.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the soup for sharp, melty goodness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing all those delicious flavors.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, extra cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon for a personalized finish.
How to Make My Favorite Creamy Outback Potato Soup Recipe You Have to Try! Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by cooking your chopped bacon in a large pot until perfectly crisp. It’s going to lend incredible flavor not only as a topping but through the bacon drippings you’ll leave behind in the pot. Keep about 1 to 2 tablespoons of that flavorful fat—it’s pure magic for the soup base!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the bacon drippings, add your diced onion and minced garlic directly to the pot. Cook them gently until they soften and fill your kitchen with that warm, inviting aroma—about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a fragrant foundation that will elevate the soup’s complexity.
Step 3: Build the Roux
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour to the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute. This simple step is the secret to achieving the silky, thick texture that makes this soup so unbelievably creamy and satisfying.
Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps, then toss in your diced potatoes. Bring everything to a lively boil, then reduce the heat and let it all simmer until the potatoes are tender, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. This step is all about softening the potatoes to meld perfectly with the rich broth.
Step 5: Stir in Dairy and Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Keep the heat low as you stir gently until the soup thickens and turns luxuriously creamy—this usually needs about 10 minutes. The cheese melts into every bite, adding that wonderful tang and richness.
Step 6: Season to Perfection
Now is the moment to taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Balancing these seasonings will bring out all the complementary flavors and make each spoonful more delicious than the last.
Step 7: Serve and Top
Ladle the soup into bowls and generously add your crispy bacon, remaining shredded cheddar cheese, fresh green onions, and a spoonful of sour cream if you like. This final step is what turns a simple soup into a feast of textures and tastes that everyone will rave about!
How to Serve My Favorite Creamy Outback Potato Soup Recipe You Have to Try! Recipe
Garnishes
To make your soup truly pop, fresh garnishes are essential. Crispy bacon imparts crunch, shredded cheddar gives an extra gooey melty touch, while bright green onions add freshness that cuts through the creaminess. A dollop of sour cream brings a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the soup’s rich texture.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or crusty bread fresh from the oven. The bread is perfect for dipping into every last silky spoonful, making each meal feel warm and heartfelt.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for a rustic, charming presentation. Alternatively, top with roasted corn or sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika for a surprising smoky finish. You can also add a few drops of hot sauce if you like a little kick with your comforting bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that you’ll be excited to reheat because the flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze this sumptuous soup, wait until it cools completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Note that cream-based soups can sometimes change texture slightly after freezing, but a good stir or a touch of fresh cream when reheating can restore lusciousness.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on low to medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, simply add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up without sacrificing creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes are best for this soup because they break down nicely and create that creamy texture. However, Yukon Golds can work too if you prefer a slightly waxier bite.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor that mimics bacon.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may be less rich. Coconut cream is also an option for a dairy-free twist, but it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
How do I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer an even thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes in the pot before adding the milk and cream. This enhances the body and brings extra creaminess.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the bacon and sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all ingredients except dairy and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in milk, cream, and cheese at the end and warm gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about steam rising from a bowl of My Favorite Creamy Outback Potato Soup Recipe You Have to Try! Recipe—it’s like a warm hug in food form. The combination of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and that dreamy creamy base feels both comforting and indulgent. If you haven’t made this recipe yet, I truly encourage you to dive in. Cooking it will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and sharing it will fill your heart with joy.
