Get ready to indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of Outback Potato Soup! This delightful dish combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and smooth cheddar cheese. Every spoonful is a warm and comforting experience, making it perfect for chilly nights or cozy family gatherings. Its beautiful golden hue topped with vibrant green onions adds a charming visual appeal that promises to impress.

Imagine dipping your spoon into this hearty soup, with all the wonderful ingredients merging into a bowlful of happiness. This article will guide you through making this beloved Australian-inspired classic at home, sharing tips to enhance the flavors and elevate your serving experience. Let’s dive into the details and discover how this stunning potato soup comes together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Uses wholesome potatoes, rich cream, and fresh herbs for a delicious taste.
Ease of Preparation: The straightforward steps make it easy for everyone, regardless of cooking skill.
Nutrition: Packed with nutrients from potatoes and optional toppings like green onions for added benefits.
Versatility: Customize with various toppings or side dishes to suit any taste preference.
Presentation: The colorful toppings create a visual feast that’s sure to impress your guests.

This potato soup is a joyful experience you don’t want to miss!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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 (or 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

How To Make OUTBACK POTATO SOUP

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 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, ensuring the flavors 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 cup 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.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls to make the soup visually appealing.
Accompaniments: Pair it with warm crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Portions: Ideal for sharing, serve as an appetizer or a hearty main dish.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy it with a light beer or a glass of white wine for a lovely contrast.

Your guests will be impressed by the thoughtful serving!

Additional Tips

Enhance flavor by adding garlic, herbs like thyme, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
For customization, try using different toppings such as sour cream, or spicy sausage.
Serve with a fun side like cheesy toast or homemade croutons for added crunch.

Recipe Variations

Loaded Potato Soup: Add sour cream and even more toppings like jalapeños and avocado.
Vegan Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Cheesy Broccoli Potato Soup: Stir in steamed broccoli and extra cheese for a delightful veggie twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For best results, freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

Large pot
Separate saucepan for roux
Whisk
Potato peeler
Cutting board
Knife

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen potatoes work well, but fresh ones provide a better texture.
Is this soup healthy?
It can be nutritious, especially with fresh ingredients and optional toppings that add vitamins.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge and can be reheated without losing flavor.
Can I customize it?
Absolutely! Add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to your taste.
What alternative cooking methods can I use?
You can make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for added convenience.

Conclusion

Outback Potato Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and beautiful presentation, it is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a cozy night in. Try this tasty recipe soon, and enjoy every spoonful of warmth and comfort!