Outback Potato Soup

Creamy, hearty, and loaded with tender potatoes, and a hint of cheddar, this soup is the perfect comfort food for any season. Whether you're craving something cozy for a chilly evening or looking for a satisfying meal any time of year, Outback Potato Soup is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Outback Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish. This recipe features a creamy, velvety texture and a savory blend of flavors, including tender potatoes, a hint of cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety broth. It’s easy to make and packed with delicious ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and green onions that bring layers of flavor to each spoonful. Whether served as a hearty appetizer or a main course, it’s an irresistible choice for any meal. Plus, the optional toppings like extra cheddar cheese make it customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Water (enough to cover potatoes for boiling)
• 4 large russet or golden potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup cold water
• ¾ cup cheddar cheese, plus more for optional topping
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup butter
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup green onion, diced
• ½ sweet yellow onion, diced (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil them in water until tender. Once cooked, set them aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken stock, diced onions, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors together.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until a smooth paste (roux) forms. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly add the roux to the simmering broth, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth consistency.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the boiled potatoes to the thickened soup, stirring to combine. Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes over low heat.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cheddar cheese and diced green onions for a flavorful finish.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor and extra crunch.
• Use different cheeses: Swap the cheddar for a mix of mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Vegan version: Replace butter with vegan butter and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave the soup, stirring every 1-2 minutes to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this soup a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly after thawing.

3. Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable stock to make the soup vegetarian-friendly.

4. How do I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can cook it longer to reduce the liquid, or you can add more flour when making the roux. You can also mash some of the boiled potatoes before adding them back into the soup.

5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free substitutes like coconut cream, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free.

6. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a different texture and flavor.

7. Is this soup spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat.

8. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply cook the potatoes in the slow cooker with the stock and seasonings, then follow the rest of the steps for making the roux and adding cream.

9. How can I make this soup healthier?

To make it lighter, you can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of butter used.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.

Conclusion

Outback Potato Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings comfort to any meal. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and customizable toppings, it's a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it as a cozy appetizer, this potato soup will soon become a staple in your recipe rotation.