Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of comfort, you’ve come to the right place! This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights or when you want to impress your family during dinner. There’s something so special about this recipe; it brings back memories of gatherings and laughter around the table. It’s a dish that warms not just your stomach but also your heart.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend with family, this soup fits right in. It’s hearty enough to satisfy yet easy enough that you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of simple steps, you can have a delicious soup ready in no time!
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves loaded baked potatoes, and this soup version makes it even more enjoyable for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, this soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
• Customizable: Top it how you like! Add extra cheese, green onions, or whatever tickles your fancy.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this soup is sure to be your new go-to comfort dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You might already have most of these items in your pantry!

For the Soup

• 4 large pre-baked russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

• Chopped green onions
• Extra cheddar
• Crispy bacon

Variations

This recipe is so flexible! Feel free to get creative with it and tailor it to your taste.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or omit bacon altogether for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some broccoli or spinach for an extra dose of greens.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter version.

How to Make Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This step adds rich flavor to the soup. Once cooked, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add your chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness! Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 3: Simmer Soup

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add those lovely chopped potatoes. Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally; this helps all those flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Now it’s time to make things creamy! Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Keep stirring until all that cheese melts into deliciousness! Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Adjust Texture

Here’s where you can customize! If you prefer a smoother texture, mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. Or if you like it chunky (like I do), leave them as they are.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your hearty soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon pieces, chopped green onions, and extra cheddar if you desire. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup ready to warm your soul!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Creating this delicious soup is a breeze, and these handy tips will help you make it even better!

• Use Fully Cooked Potatoes: Starting with pre-baked russet potatoes saves time and ensures they’re tender. This way, you can focus on developing deep flavors without worrying about undercooked potatoes.
• Sauté the Onions and Garlic Well: Taking the time to sauté your onions until they’re translucent and aromatic ensures a flavorful base for your soup. This step enhances the overall taste by releasing their natural sweetness.
• Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to mash some of the potatoes to achieve your desired texture. This adds creaminess, but if you prefer a chunkier soup, simply leave them whole!
• Season Gradually: Adding salt and pepper at different stages allows you to fine-tune the flavor as you go. Taste as you stir, so you can find that perfect balance without overpowering the dish.
• Experiment with Toppings: The optional toppings are where you can get creative! Add different types of cheese, or try crispy fried onions or diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Presenting your Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup can turn a simple meal into a delightful experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish elegantly!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that brightens up your bowl.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar: A sprinkle of extra cheese on top not only looks appetizing but also enhances that cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Crispy Bacon Alternatives: For an added crunch, consider using turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives which provide similar flavors without compromising dietary needs.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping! The buttery flavors complement the creamy potato soup wonderfully.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritional value while balancing out the hearty nature of the soup.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory soup and are always a crowd-pleaser!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup! Whether it’s for a cozy night in or serving guests at dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious soup properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful soup!

Can I make Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup without bacon?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.

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

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash more of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water) during cooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking to avoid heavy cream.

Can I add vegetables to this Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Definitely! Chopped carrots, celery, or even spinach can be great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup at home! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavors that remind you of dining out. Enjoy every spoonful, whether it’s a cozy dinner with family or meal prep for busy days. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!