Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect dish for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it brings the beloved taste of Outback Steakhouse right to your kitchen. This soup is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a hearty main, this comforting soup is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

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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 Creaminess
• For Garnish
• 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
• Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
• Pair with Crunchy Sides
• Create a Comforting Meal
• 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?
• Can I make this soup vegetarian?
• How can I customize my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
• How do I thicken my potato soup?
• Can I use other types of cheese?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes creates a flavor explosion that warms the soul.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires simple steps that make cooking enjoyable, even for beginners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course—it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, or extra cheese to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Here are some essential items you’ll need for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or stock pot: Ideal for simmering soups; it distributes heat evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables and bacon.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise measurements for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

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 Creaminess

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

For Garnish

• Chives
• Reserved bacon crumbles
• Additional shredded cheese

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How to Make Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Bacon and Aromatics

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

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine and cover with a lid.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the 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 the potatoes are cooked, stir in heavy cream (or milk), Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

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

How to Serve Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Elevate your serving game with these delightful suggestions that enhance its flavors and textures.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chives: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
• Crispy Bacon: Add reserved bacon crumbles for an extra crunch and savory taste.
• Shredded Cheese: Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese that melts slightly into the warm soup.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve alongside buttery garlic breadsticks for a satisfying crunch.
• Tortilla Chips: Offer crispy tortilla chips for dipping, adding texture to each spoonful of soup.

Create a Comforting Meal

• Simple Salad: A fresh garden salad can balance the richness of the soup with crisp greens.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing with a classic grilled cheese sandwich makes for a comforting duo.

How to Perfect Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Perfecting this creamy soup is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your cooking!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh potatoes and quality bacon to enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash some potatoes in the pot. For a creamier texture, blend part of it.
• Season Gradually: Start with less salt, especially if using salty broth or bacon. Taste and adjust as necessary.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in gouda or pepper jack for added depth.

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Best Side Dishes for Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to complement this hearty soup.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tangy flavors to balance the rich soup.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an earthy addition that pairs well with creamy dishes.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables adds nutrition and vibrant colors to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges echo the potato theme while providing crunch and heartiness.
6. Cheese Quesadillas: Easy to prepare, cheese quesadillas make for a melty, satisfying side that complements the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Bacon: Bacon adds essential flavor to this soup. Don’t skip it or substitute it with something else. Even if you’re vegetarian, consider using a smoky alternative to maintain the taste profile.
• Not Mashing Potatoes: For a thicker and creamier soup, mash some of the potatoes after cooking. This enhances texture and richness. Ignoring this step can result in a more watery soup.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: While you want tender potatoes, overcooking them makes them mushy. Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark to prevent this mistake.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key for flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Don’t assume it’s perfectly seasoned without tasting.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: The type of cheese matters! Using low-quality cheese can result in a bland soup. Always opt for good quality cheddar for rich flavor.
• Skipping the Garnishes: Garnishes like chives and extra bacon add freshness and crunch. Skipping these can make your dish less appealing visually and in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you leave some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute increments, stirring between each session until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy potato soup inspired by Outback Steakhouse’s famous recipe. It features tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! To make it vegetarian, replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I customize my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

You can add vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition or spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer heat.

How do I thicken my potato soup?

To thicken your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry made from cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you add more veggies or try different toppings, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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