Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and hearty ingredients, this soup captures the essence of Outback Steakhouse’s classic dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a starter or a main course, making it suitable for various occasions.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For the Creamy Finish
• REMEMBER
• How to Make Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Step 1: Sauté Bacon and Aromatics
• Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
• Step 3: Finish with Cream and Cheese
• Step 4: Serve and Garnish
• How to Serve Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Classic Bowl Presentation
• Bread Bowls
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• Side Salad Accompaniment
• Appetizer Size
• Gourmet Touch
• How to Perfect Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Reheating Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
• How do I make my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup thicker?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
• How should I store leftovers of Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with tender potatoes and crispy bacon, ensuring it satisfies your hunger.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasoning or add toppings like extra cheese or chives to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, cheesy delight.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or stock pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or stock pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without damaging your pot’s surface while mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

This creamy, cheesy, and hearty potato soup is an at-home version of Outback Steakhouse’s classic baked potato soup. Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food!

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 5-6 slices uncooked bacon, diced (reserve some for garnish, if desired)
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• 5-6 small yellow potatoes, diced (peeled, if desired)
• 32 oz vegetable broth

For the Creamy Finish

• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Chives, bacon crumbles, and additional shredded cheese

PIN THIS!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

How to Make Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Bacon and Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon; sauté for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
3. Stir in minced garlic and diced onion; sauté for another 2-3 minutes until onions are tender. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot; stir to combine.
2. Cover with a lid; reduce heat to medium and simmer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. For a thicker texture, gently mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.

Step 3: Finish with Cream and Cheese

1. Once potatoes are cooked through, stir in heavy cream (or milk), Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally until cheese is fully melted.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with reserved bacon crumbles, chopped chives, and additional shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish.

Classic Bowl Presentation

• Serve the soup in deep bowls, allowing it to be the star of the meal. Top with shredded cheese and crispy bacon for a classic touch.

Bread Bowls

• Hollow out small bread loaves and fill them with the soup. This adds a fun twist and provides an edible bowl!

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. This makes for a visually appealing presentation.

Side Salad Accompaniment

• Pair your soup with a fresh side salad. A light garden salad complements the richness of the soup nicely.

Appetizer Size

• Serve smaller portions in shot glasses or small cups as an appetizer at gatherings. This allows guests to taste before enjoying the main course.

Gourmet Touch

• Enhance the soup by drizzling with truffle oil or adding a dollop of crème fraîche for a gourmet feel. This makes it feel extra special for dinner parties.

How to Perfect Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

To ensure your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce, like potatoes and herbs, will greatly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: For a thicker consistency, mash some potatoes in the pot; for a smoother texture, blend part of the soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on toppings; bacon, cheese, and chives add essential flavor and visual appeal.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar cheese for better melting properties and richer taste.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day, so consider making it ahead of time.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options you might consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the creamy soup and is perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crispness that balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables add color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory potato soup.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A gooey grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with hot soup for ultimate comfort food.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide an earthy flavor that matches well with baked potato soup’s creaminess.
7. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add texture and a Southern twist to your meal.
8. Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad brings freshness and can easily be made ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making potato soup can be easy, but some common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the bacon and aromatics enhances the flavor of your soup. Don’t rush this step; allow the ingredients to cook until fragrant.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Check for fork tenderness after 25 minutes and adjust cooking time as needed.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Salt levels can vary based on broth and bacon, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Using cold dairy: Adding cold cream or yogurt can cool down your soup and prevent it from mixing well. Ensure these ingredients are at room temperature before adding.
• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like chives and bacon add texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; they elevate your dish visually and taste-wise.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy and cheesy potato soup inspired by Outback Steakhouse’s classic recipe. It’s filled with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory cheese.

How do I make my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, gently mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or blend a portion of it using an immersion blender for a smoother texture.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How should I store leftovers of Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Give this comforting recipe a try—it’s perfect for any occasion!