Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup (Copycat Creamy Recipe)

There’s a reason Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup has earned such a loyal following. Rich, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors, it’s the kind of soup that feels indulgent from the very first spoonful. Thick without being heavy, hearty without being overwhelming, this iconic soup strikes the perfect balance between cozy comfort food and restaurant-quality indulgence.

What makes this soup so memorable is its texture and depth. Tender chunks of potato are suspended in a velvety, creamy base that feels luxurious yet familiar. Every bite delivers warmth, richness, and that unmistakable steakhouse-style comfort that makes you slow down and savor it. It’s the kind of dish people crave long after leaving the restaurant.

Recreating this classic at home is more rewarding than you might expect. Not only does homemade potato soup allow you to control the ingredients and richness, but it also delivers that same comforting flavor with a fresher, more satisfying finish. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, relaxed weekends, or anytime you’re craving something filling and deeply comforting.

This recipe is designed to bring that Outback-inspired experience straight into your kitchen. With simple steps and approachable ingredients, you’ll be able to create a soup that tastes just as indulgent as the restaurant favorite—if not better. Once you try it homemade, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your comfort-food rotation.

Why You’ll Love It

This Outback Steakhouse–style potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying. One of the biggest reasons you’ll love this recipe is how closely it captures that restaurant-quality experience at home. The soup is thick and velvety, with tender potato chunks in every bite, creating a hearty texture that feels indulgent and filling.

Another reason this recipe stands out is its balance. While it’s undeniably rich, it’s not overly heavy. The creamy base complements the potatoes instead of overpowering them, allowing the natural flavor of the potatoes to shine through. It’s the kind of soup that warms you instantly and keeps you full without feeling weighed down.

This recipe is also perfect for making ahead. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, which means leftovers often taste even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply meal-prepping for the week, this soup fits seamlessly into your routine.

Most importantly, this is comfort food at its finest. It feels familiar, cozy, and indulgent—exactly what you want from a classic steakhouse-style potato soup, but made right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients + Tips

Potatoes are the foundation of this soup, and choosing the right kind makes a big difference. Russet potatoes are ideal because they soften easily and help thicken the soup naturally. Dice them evenly so they cook at the same rate and create a consistent texture.

The creamy base usually starts with butter and flour, forming a roux that gives the soup its signature thickness. Cook the roux gently to avoid browning, which keeps the soup light in color and smooth in flavor. Milk or cream adds richness, while broth provides depth and keeps the soup from tasting flat.

Seasoning is key in a potato-based soup. Salt should be added gradually, tasting as you go, since potatoes absorb seasoning. Black pepper adds warmth, and a small amount of onion or garlic enhances the overall flavor without dominating it.

For the best results, let the soup simmer gently rather than boiling. This allows the potatoes to soften fully and the flavors to blend without breaking the creamy base. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Steps (Soup Base & Creamy Texture)

Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook briefly, just until the flour loses its raw smell, keeping the mixture pale and creamy.

Slowly add the milk while whisking, allowing the mixture to thicken gradually. This step creates the smooth, velvety base that defines steakhouse-style potato soup. Once thickened, add broth and stir to combine.

Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, stirring occasionally. As they cook, some of the potatoes will naturally break down, further thickening the soup.

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, adjust the seasoning and texture. You can lightly mash some of the potatoes for a thicker consistency while leaving chunks for texture. Lower the heat and allow the soup to rest briefly before serving.

Variations

This soup is easy to customize depending on your preferences. For an extra-rich version, add a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking. If you prefer a lighter soup, use more broth and slightly less dairy.

Cheese lovers can stir in shredded cheddar for a creamier, more indulgent finish. For added depth, crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions make excellent additions.

If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika adds warmth without overpowering the classic flavor. You can also blend the soup fully for a smoother, more uniform texture if you prefer creamy soups without chunks.

Storage & Reheating

This potato soup stores very well, making it perfect for leftovers. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days.

When reheating, warm the soup slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. Avoid boiling, as high heat can affect the creamy texture.

Freezing is possible, but soups with dairy may change texture slightly. If freezing, reheat gently and stir well to restore smoothness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup hot with simple sides that complement its richness. Crusty bread, warm rolls, or garlic toast are perfect for dipping. A fresh green salad on the side adds balance and freshness.

For a steakhouse-style presentation, top the soup with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add contrast in both flavor and texture.

This soup also works well as a starter before a hearty main dish or as a filling meal on its own.

Final Thoughts

Outback Steakhouse–style potato soup is the kind of recipe that defines comfort food. Creamy, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it delivers warmth and indulgence in every spoonful. Making it at home allows you to enjoy all the richness and flavor of the restaurant version while controlling the ingredients and tailoring it to your taste.

What makes this soup truly special is how timeless it feels. It’s perfect for cold nights, casual family dinners, or moments when you simply want something comforting and familiar. The balance of creamy texture and tender potatoes makes it filling without being overwhelming.

This is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s reliable, comforting, and always satisfying—exactly what a great potato soup should be. Once you’ve made it at home, it’s hard not to prefer it over the restaurant version, because nothing beats comfort food made in your own kitchen.