Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a delightful and creamy take on the classic restaurant favorite. Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this soup is loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and rich cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s sure to please 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 Ideas
• Accompaniments
• 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 makes this soup a Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
• Can I customize my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
• How can I make this soup vegan?
• Is this soup gluten-free?
• How do I thicken my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings and ingredients to suit your taste, making it versatile for any occasion.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy night in, everyone loves a loaded baked potato soup!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or stock pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or stock pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping ingredients while protecting your counters.
• Knife: A good knife makes prep work quick and efficient.

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, bacon, and shredded cheese for garnish

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How to Make Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Bacon and Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
1. Add the diced bacon and sauté for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
2. 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

Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot.
1. 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

Once the potatoes are cooked:
1. Stir in the 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

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

How to Serve Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is all about enhancing the experience with delicious garnishes and complementary sides. This creamy soup can be a meal on its own, but adding some extras can elevate your dish even further.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Chives: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Crispy Bacon: Top your soup with extra crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese enhances the cheesy goodness of the soup.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and tang to balance the flavors.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Salad: A light green salad complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes for a delightful pairing with this savory dish.

How to Perfect Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Perfecting your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup can turn a good recipe into an extraordinary one. Follow these tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and herbs will give your soup vibrant flavor.
• Control the Texture: Adjust how much you mash the potatoes to customize the thickness of your soup.
• Experiment with Spices: Add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
• Adjust Creaminess: Use heavy cream for richness or milk for lighter soup; both work well!
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup can make it a complete meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs well with creamy soups.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for dipping into your flavorful potato soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic combo, grilled cheese adds comfort and satisfaction to your meal.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an appetizer option that matches nicely with rich soups.
5. Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw balance out the creaminess of the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add health benefits and vibrant colors to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the bacon and aromatics enhances the flavor of your soup. Don’t rush this process; it’s key to building depth.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: While you want them tender, overcooked potatoes can turn mushy. Check for doneness regularly after 25 minutes.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Broth and bacon vary in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Quality ingredients make a difference. Opt for fresh potatoes and good cheese for the best flavor.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishes add visual appeal and extra flavor. Don’t skip the chives, crispy bacon, or extra cheese on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this soup a Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

This recipe mimics Outback Steakhouse’s famous potato soup by using similar ingredients like bacon, cheddar cheese, and creamy textures.

Can I customize my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like jalapeños or use different cheeses according to your preference.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make a vegan version of Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, substitute vegetable broth, coconut milk for cream, and skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.

How do I thicken my Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry while simmering.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust its creaminess. Try making it at home for a delightful treat that rivals your favorite restaurant version!

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