Creamy Loaded Outback Potato Soup: A Hearty & Delicious Comfort in a Bowl 🥔🍲✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a potato soup recipe that is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, then look no further than this Creamy Loaded Outback Potato Soup. Inspired by the classic Outback style soup, this dish combines the rustic wholesomeness of potatoes with a luscious, cheesy, and savory broth. Whether you want a cozy dinner or a meal to impress at your next gathering, this loaded potato soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize toppings and ingredients to match your taste.
2. Ingredients for the Creamy Loaded Outback Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped chives, jalapeños, or more cheese
3. How to Make the Creamy Loaded Outback Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook uniformly and become perfectly tender in the soup.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Mash or Blend for Creaminess
Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash or purée the soup to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, blend until completely creamy.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue simmering until the cheese melts completely, creating a rich, creamy texture.
Step 6: Incorporate Toppings
Add crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and any other toppings you love. Stir gently and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Tips for Making the Best Potato Soup
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, ensure your broth and toppings are gluten-free.
- For extra flavor, sauté the potatoes briefly in butter before adding broth.
- To simplify the process, consider using a compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer to quickly cook and crisp the bacon.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
This creamy potato dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For best results, add a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture if it thickens upon chilling.
6. Serving Suggestions for Loaded Potato Soup
Serve your Outback style soup hot in bowls, complemented by a side of garlic butter bread rolls or a fresh garden salad. For a more filling meal, pair it with a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
7. Variations and Dietary Tips
- For a vegan version, substitute the dairy with vegan cheese and plant-based milk.
- Add some cooked ham or sausage for added protein and flavor.
- Reduce the cheese or skip the bacon for a lighter, healthier option.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this potato soup ahead of time?
Yes, this loaded potato soup can be prepared a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove, stirring in a little extra broth or milk to maintain its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this cream-based potato soup?
While it’s possible to freeze the soup, the texture may change slightly after thawing. For best results, store in airtight containers and consume within 2-3 months.
What are good substitutions for heavy cream?
You can use full-fat coconut milk, cashew cream, or even evaporated milk as dairy-free alternatives that still deliver creaminess.
How long does it take to prepare the loaded potato soup?
The total prep and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying potato soup recipe for busy weeknights.
9. Conclusion
This creamy loaded Outback potato soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines hearty ingredients with a luscious, cheesy broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a satisfying meal, it’s easy to customize and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the cozy flavors of this loaded potato dish and make it your new go-to potato soup recipe!
Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Quickly crisp up your bacon or vegetables for added texture and flavor to your soup.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for preparing the base ingredients and soup in durable, nonstick cookware.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – For effortlessly cooking bacon or toppings with minimal mess and maximum flavor.
Creamy Loaded Outback Potato Soup
A creamy, cheesy loaded potato soup with crispy bacon and fresh green onions, perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and cook until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or leave some chunks for texture.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Ladle into bowls, top with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and additional cheese if desired.
Notes
- Can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.
- Add jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Australian-inspired American comfort food
- Diet: Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg