Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of creamy potato soup to warm you up on a chilly evening, and the Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup brings that comforting, restaurant-quality flavor right into your home kitchen. Inspired by the iconic baked potato soup served at Outback Steakhouse, this homemade version delivers the same creamy texture, savory bacon bits, and gooey melted cheese that fans of the original know and love.

What sets this soup apart is its perfect balance of creamy broth, tender chunks of potato, rich cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Every spoonful is loaded with flavor and texture, from the soft potatoes to the smoky bacon and the sharp cheddar that melts perfectly into the warm broth. Whether you’re recreating the full steakhouse experience at home or simply craving a satisfying comfort dish, this recipe offers all the flavors you love without the need for a reservation.

This soup’s appeal lies not just in its rich taste but also in its versatility. It’s ideal for serving as a hearty main course or as a starter for a larger meal. The customizable toppings, from extra cheese to freshly chopped chives or even a dollop of sour cream, allow you to tailor it to your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep since the flavors continue to develop as it sits, making leftovers just as delicious the next day.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Recreates the authentic Outback flavor at home
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Ready in under an hour
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep
• Budget-friendly compared to restaurant prices
• Comfort food at its finest with creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar

Essential Tools and Equipment

To ensure your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup comes out perfectly, gather the right tools before you begin. These are the essentials for achieving the right texture, consistency, and flavor.

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed stock pot – Ensures even cooking and retains heat well
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For precise chopping of potatoes, onions, and garlic
• Ladle – Makes serving the hot soup easy
• Potato masher – Helps achieve the desired thick texture
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures proper ingredient ratios
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Prevents sticking and helps evenly distribute ingredients

Preparation Tips

• Uniform Potato Pieces: Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Render Bacon Slowly: Cooking the bacon at a moderate temperature allows the fat to fully render and ensures crisp results.
• Layer Your Flavors: Season at each step — when cooking the bacon, sautéing the aromatics, and simmering the potatoes — to build a well-balanced flavor profile.
• Mash or Blend: For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
• Add Dairy Last: Stir in the cream, Greek yogurt, and cheese toward the end to prevent curdling and ensure a silky finish.

Ingredients List

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 5-6 slices uncooked bacon, diced (reserve some for garnish)
• 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
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chives, bacon, and shredded cheese for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced bacon and cook for 2-3 minutes until crisp. Remove some for garnish if desired.
3. Stir in minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
5. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well, cover, and reduce heat to medium.
6. Simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. For a thicker soup, mash some potatoes directly in the pot with a potato masher.
8. Stir in heavy cream, Greek yogurt, and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer until cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Ladle into bowls and garnish with bacon, chives, and extra cheddar.

Serving Suggestions for Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own as a filling meal, but the right presentation and accompaniments can elevate it even further. Whether you’re serving it as the main event or as part of a larger spread, a few thoughtful additions make this soup even more satisfying.

• Serve in deep bowls with generous garnishes of extra cheddar, bacon crumbles, and freshly chopped chives.
• For added indulgence, swirl a dollop of sour cream on top before serving.
• Pair with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping.
• Add a side salad to balance the richness of the soup with a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Present the soup in bread bowls for a fun and hearty presentation perfect for special occasions.

This soup is also a fantastic option for casual family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy base is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the customizable toppings make it fun for guests to create their own perfect bowl.

8 Perfect Side Dishes to Pair with Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Although Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is rich and satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right side dish can enhance the meal and provide variety in both flavor and texture. Here are eight ideal sides that complement the soup’s creamy, savory character.

1. Garlic Breadsticks
   Warm, buttery breadsticks offer a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping into the thick, cheesy broth.
2. Classic Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   This classic pairing adds even more cheesy goodness to the meal, making it an indulgent comfort food feast.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   The slightly charred, earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts provides a welcome contrast to the creamy soup.
5. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
   Combining crisp-tender asparagus with smoky bacon echoes the bacon flavor in the soup while adding a touch of elegance.
6. Cheddar Biscuits
   Soft, buttery biscuits packed with cheddar and herbs are the perfect partner for this loaded soup.
7. Apple and Walnut Salad
   A light salad with crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and a bright vinaigrette brings a sweet and tart balance to the rich soup.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory mushrooms filled with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs make a flavorful, bite-sized accompaniment.

These side dishes not only round out the meal but also add visual variety and complementary textures to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Perfect Your Soup

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are several common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Avoiding these mistakes ensures your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup has the perfect consistency, flavor, and appearance every time.

Overcooking the Potatoes

One of the most common issues is overcooking the potatoes, which can lead to a grainy or mushy texture. To avoid this, monitor the potatoes closely as they simmer and check for tenderness with a fork.

Skipping the Seasoning Layers

Seasoning only at the end can result in bland soup. Instead, add salt and pepper in stages — while cooking the bacon, when sautéing the onions and garlic, and after adding the broth. This creates a well-rounded flavor.

Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest soup, grate your cheese fresh from the block.

Adding Dairy Too Early

If you add cream or Greek yogurt before the potatoes are fully cooked, the dairy can curdle from the heat. Always stir in the dairy at the end and keep the heat at a gentle simmer.

Forgetting Texture Balance

Some texture variety is essential for a great soup. Mashing some of the potatoes thickens the soup, but leaving a few potato chunks intact adds a satisfying bite. Aim for a mix of smooth and chunky for the best result.

Rushing the Bacon

Crispy bacon adds both flavor and texture, but if you cook it too quickly over high heat, it can burn or turn rubbery. Slowly rendering the bacon over moderate heat draws out its full smoky flavor and achieves the perfect crispness.

Ignoring the Garnishes

The finishing touches — extra cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives — elevate both the flavor and presentation of this soup. Don’t skip them.

Not Tasting Before Serving

Because the saltiness of bacon, broth, and cheese can vary, it’s essential to taste the soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a final pinch of salt or a crack of black pepper to balance the flavors.

By following these tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you can confidently recreate the rich, creamy goodness of Outback Steakhouse’s famous loaded baked potato soup right at home.

Expert Tips for Perfect Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Achieving the rich, creamy texture and bold flavor of Outback’s famous loaded baked potato soup requires attention to a few key details. These tips help ensure your homemade version turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes offer a naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor, while russet potatoes provide a starchier base that thickens the soup beautifully. Use whichever fits your texture preference.
• Grate Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always shred your cheddar directly from the block for the best creamy finish.
• Layer Seasoning Throughout: Adding salt and pepper in stages — when cooking bacon, sautéing onions, and simmering the broth — ensures balanced flavor in every bite.
• Mash for Thickness: For the signature thick texture, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. For a smoother consistency, blend a portion using an immersion blender.
• Avoid High Heat After Adding Dairy: Cream, yogurt, and cheese can break or curdle if the soup boils after they are added. Maintain a gentle simmer to keep the soup smooth.
• Save Garnishes for Last: Crispy bacon, fresh chives, and extra cheddar should be added just before serving to preserve their texture and visual appeal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This soup stores exceptionally well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. With proper storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy its creamy goodness for days.

Refrigeration

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days.
• For best results, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing and storing.

Freezing

• While the soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content.
• To freeze, portion cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently.
• Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
• Avoid boiling, which can cause the dairy to break.
• For quick reheating, microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs: Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

What type of potatoes work best for loaded baked potato soup?

Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are both excellent choices. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a smooth, creamy texture, while russets break down more easily, naturally thickening the soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

How do I make this gluten-free?

The base recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free broth and bacon. Always check labels to confirm.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, cook the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop first. Then transfer everything (except dairy and cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the cream, yogurt, and cheese at the end.

How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is thinner than desired, mash additional potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and simmer until thickened.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version. Add extra cheese or sautéed mushrooms for additional flavor.

What cheese melts best in potato soup?

Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for loaded baked potato soup, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses will work well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though the soup will be slightly less rich. For best results, use whole milk or half-and-half to maintain creaminess.

Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?

Absolutely. Sour cream provides a tangy flavor similar to Greek yogurt, and both work well in this recipe.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

You can substitute sweet potatoes for a unique twist, though the flavor will be noticeably sweeter and less traditional.

Conclusion

Recreating the beloved Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup at home brings all the rich, cheesy, bacon-filled flavor of the restaurant classic right to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, preparing a comforting meal for guests, or meal prepping for the week, this versatile recipe delivers on all fronts. With creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, gooey cheddar, and fresh garnishes, every spoonful offers the perfect balance of indulgent flavors and textures.

What makes this soup even more appealing is how adaptable it is. Whether you prefer a thicker, rustic texture with chunks of potato or a silky-smooth soup blended to perfection, you can adjust the recipe to match your personal taste. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, even beginner cooks can achieve steakhouse-worthy results in their own kitchen.

By mastering a few essential techniques — from rendering bacon properly to adding dairy at the right time — you can ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time. Paired with fresh bread, a crisp salad, or even just a sprinkle of extra cheddar and chives, this Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is guaranteed to become a go-to comfort food favorite.

Whether you’re an Outback Steakhouse regular or just love a hearty homemade soup, this recipe is a must-try. Gather your ingredients, grab your Dutch oven, and get ready to serve up a bowl of creamy, cheesy perfection that brings the flavors of your favorite steakhouse soup right into your own kitchen.