Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Outback Potato Soup, a beloved classic that will leave you craving for more. This creamy creation combines tender potatoes, savory bacon, and a medley of spices to create a soup that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or an impressive starter for a dinner party, this recipe will surely impress!
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Serving: 6
- Yield: Approximately 8 cups
- Calories: 320 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups (946 ml) chicken broth
- 4 cups (800 g) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced onion
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing spoon
- Blender or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced potatoes, and diced onion. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Tip: For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper to the broth.
Step 2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and all-purpose flour until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the pot with the cooked potatoes, stirring continuously.
Tip: Gradually adding the cream mixture prevents lumps from forming.
Step 3
Continue to cook the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
Step 4
Once the soup has thickened, remove it from the heat. Using a blender or immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids to avoid splattering.
Tip: If using a blender, blend the soup in batches to prevent overflow.
Step 5
Return the blended soup to the pot and place it back on the stove over low heat. Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Tip: Reserve a small amount of bacon and cheese for garnishing.
Tips and Tricks
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork instead of blending the entire soup.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or chives on top of each serving for a burst of freshness.
- Serve the soup with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, so don’t hesitate to make a larger batch for leftovers.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
Final Thoughts
Creamy Outback Potato Soup is a delightful comfort food that will warm you up from the inside out. With its velvety texture, smoky bacon bits, and the subtle tang of cheddar cheese, it’s a bowl of pure indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to please both your family and guests. So grab a spoon, savor each spoonful, and let this soup transport you to cozy evenings by the fireplace.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in Outback Potato Soup?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist on the Outback Potato Soup recipe. However, cheddar cheese complements the flavors of the soup exceptionally well.
Q2: Can I freeze Outback Potato Soup?
While it is possible to freeze Outback Potato Soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The potatoes may become slightly grainy, but the taste of the soup will remain delicious.
Q3: Can I substitute almond milk for regular milk in Outback Potato Soup?
Yes, you can use almond milk as a dairy-free alternative in Outback Potato Soup. However, keep in mind that the soup may have a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to Outback Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of Outback Potato Soup. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them along with the potatoes in Step 1.
Q5: Can I make Outback Potato Soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Outback Potato Soup in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency if needed.
Q6: How long will Outback Potato Soup stay fresh in the refrigerator?
Outback Potato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.
Q7: Can I use pre-cooked bacon for convenience in Outback Potato Soup?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon if desired in Outback Potato Soup. Simply crumble it and add it to the soup in Step 5.
Q8: Can I make Outback Potato Soup spicy?
If you enjoy a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to Outback Potato Soup during the cooking process. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Q9: Can I use russet potatoes instead of regular potatoes in Outback Potato Soup?
Yes, russet potatoes work well in Outback Potato Soup. They have a slightly higher starch content, which lends a creamy texture to the soup.
Q10: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in Outback Potato Soup?
Certainly! Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative in Outback Potato Soup without compromising the overall flavor of the soup.
Q11: Can I substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour in Outback Potato Soup?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour in Outback Potato Soup. Make sure to choose a blend that is suitable for thickening sauces and soups.
Q12: Can I add herbs to Outback Potato Soup for additional flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added to Outback Potato Soup during the cooking process to infuse it with aromatic flavors.
Q13: Can I use an immersion blender instead of a regular blender for Outback Potato Soup?
Yes, an immersion blender can be used to blend Outback Potato Soup directly in the pot. It’s a convenient option that saves time and reduces the risk of transferring hot soup to a blender.
Q14: Can I make Outback Potato Soup dairy-free?
To make Outback Potato Soup dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with unsweetened coconut milk or a dairy-free milk alternative of your choice.
Q15: Can I garnish Outback Potato Soup with additional toppings?
Absolutely! Besides the reserved bacon and cheese, you can add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil as additional garnishes to enhance the presentation and flavor of Outback Potato Soup.
