As I warmed my hands around a hearty bowl of soup, memories of cozy evenings flooded back—flickering candles, laughter, and the unmistakable aroma of comfort filling the air. Today, I’m excited to share my take on the beloved Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, a one-pot wonder that brings those warm restaurant vibes right into your kitchen. Perfect for chilly nights, this dish combines rich, creamy textures with tender potatoes and crispy bacon, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Not only is this soup easy to whip up, but it’s also the ultimate comfort food that you can customize to your liking! Curious how to recreate that iconic flavor at home? Let’s dig in!

Why Is This Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting and hearty, this Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate indulgence for those chilly evenings. Easy to make, it requires just one pot, perfect for busy weeknights. Rich flavors of bacon, cheddar, and cream envelop tender potatoes, creating a luscious bowl that’s impossible to resist. Versatile enough for variations like adding jalapeños for spice or extra veggies for nutrition, it’s guaranteed to delight everyone. Plus, pair it with Baked Beef Tacos for a fun mealtime twist!

Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup Ingredients

Get ready to bring the restaurant experience home with these ingredients!

For the Soup

Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the vegetables and bacon; butter can be an excellent substitute for added richness.
Uncooked Bacon (5-6 slices) – Imparts a smoky, savory flavor that’s essential; consider turkey bacon or pancetta for a lighter version.
Yellow or White Onion (1 medium) – Offers a sweet, aromatic base; shallots can be used for a milder sweetness.
Garlic (3-4 cloves) – A must for depth of flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Kosher Salt (2 tsp) & Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
Yellow Potatoes (5-6 small) – The soul of the soup, providing heartiness and texture; Russet potatoes can be used for a fluffier result, and peeling is optional.
Vegetable Broth (32 oz.) – A flavorful base that adds depth to the soup; chicken broth can serve as a non-vegetarian alternative.
Heavy Cream or Milk (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and richness; half-and-half or non-dairy options like coconut milk are great substitutes.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (½ cup) – Brings a tangy, creamy element to the dish; swap with non-dairy yogurt for a vegan alternative.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Crucial for that cheesy flavor; feel free to use any melty cheese like Monterey Jack.

For the Garnish

Chives – A fresh touch that enhances flavor; chopped green onions work well as an alternative.
Crispy Bacon – For an extra crunch; reserve some cooked bacon from the soup preparation.
Shredded Cheese – Adds a delightful finishing touch; mix your favorite cheeses for variety.

With these ingredients, you’ll be just steps away from savoring a comforting bowl of Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, perfect for bringing warmth to your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Bacon
In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add 5–6 slices of uncooked bacon, cooking for 2–3 minutes until crispy and golden. Stir occasionally, allowing the smoky flavors to infuse the oil while rendering the fat. After the bacon is crispy, remove it with a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Add 1 medium diced onion and 3-4 minced garlic cloves to the pot, stirring them into the sizzling bacon drippings. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup, enhancing the richness of the dish.

Step 3: Incorporate the Potatoes
Now, add 5-6 small diced yellow potatoes to the pot along with 32 oz. of vegetable broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the potatoes are well coated in the aromatic mixture. Cover the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, which will create a delightful mash later.

Step 4: Add Creaminess and Flavor
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with ½ cup of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep the heat low and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the soup to become luxuriously creamy. Stir continuously to blend all components into a harmonious flavor.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Once your Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is creamy and well-combined, turn off the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each with the reserved crispy bacon, a sprinkle of fresh chives, and additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors with your favorite bread for a cozy meal!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (cooked bacon, sautéed onions, and garlic, plus the diced potatoes in broth) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but allows flavors to meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to finish the soup, simply reheat the base on the stovetop, stir in the cream, yogurt, and cheese, and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until creamy. Just like that, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delicious!

Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish—your taste buds will thank you!

Veggie Boost: Add chopped carrots or celery when sautéing onions for a nutrient-rich twist. A sprinkle of freshness will brighten the flavors!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use non-dairy milk and coconut cream to make this soup vegan-friendly while keeping it deliciously creamy. Enjoy the same cozy comfort without the dairy!
Cheese Medley: Mix in Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese for a unique flavor experience. Combining different cheeses can elevate your soup to a gourmet level!
Spicy Kick: Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Infuse a little heat to counter the creamy richness; it’s a flavor adventure!
Smoky Flavor: Switch out regular bacon for smoked bacon or add some smoked paprika for an extra deep, smoky flavor. Your taste buds will do a happy dance with every bite!
Rustic Texture: For a heartier soup, leave some potato chunks whole, or mash a few for a thicker texture. It creates a wonderful variety in each spoonful!
Protein Punch: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or crumbled sausage for added protein. This transforms your soup into a more filling, satisfying meal perfect for the whole family!

For some delightful pairings, consider serving with a side of Sausage Potato Soup or some crispy Baked Beef Tacos to create a comforting feast!

What to Serve with Creamy Copycat Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Warm up your dinner table with delightful sides that complement the rich, velvety textures of your cozy soup.

Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery, these knots are perfect for mopping up every last drop of that creamy goodness.
Simple Lettuce Salad: A refreshing mix of greens balances the richness, while a zesty vinaigrette adds a tart contrast.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crunchiness brings a satisfying texture and a hint of bitterness to cut through the creamy soup.
Homemade Cornbread: Sweet and soft, this cornbread adds a wonderful warmth that pairs beautifully with the hearty flavors of the soup.
Cheesy Biscuit Muffins: These delightful muffins are packed with cheese, making them a complementary, savory treat that pairs perfectly with your soup.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This fizzy drink provides a refreshing acidity, enhancing the flavors and making every bite feel festive.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, serve these warm, gooey cookies that offer a comforting contrast to the savory soup.

Each of these delightful companions promises to elevate your dining experience, turning a simple bowl of soup into a memorable feast!

Expert Tips for Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Bacon Tip: Reserve extra bacon for garnish to create a visually appealing and delicious presentation. Guests love that crunchy topping!
Thicker Soup: If your soup turns out too thin, simmer it longer or mash some potatoes directly in the pot for added thickness. A cornstarch slurry can also help!
Vegetable Boost: Want more veggies? Try adding chopped carrots or celery when cooking the onions and garlic for a nutritional boost in your Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles; just make sure they melt well!
Spice It Up: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup a spicy kick that complements the flavors wonderfully.

How to Store and Freeze Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Texture Tip: If the soup thickens too much after freezing, simply stir in a little broth or cream while reheating to bring it back to that velvety consistency of the Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using yellow potatoes, as they provide a creamy consistency and hold their shape well. Look for potatoes that are firm with minimal dark spots or blemishes. If you prefer a fluffier texture, russet potatoes work as an alternative, but peeling is optional!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Leftovers of your Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the soup has cooled down before placing it in the fridge. If you’re looking to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 1 month—just remember to seal it well and leave some room for expansion!

Can I freeze the Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Of course! To freeze this delicious soup, allow it to cool completely first. Then, transfer it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

What if the soup is too thin?
No worries! If your Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out thinner than you like, there are a couple of ways to thicken it up. You can either keep simmering the soup until it thickens a bit more, or take a potato masher and mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. If you prefer, you can also make a cornstarch slurry: mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some cold water, add it to the soup, and stir until it thickens.

Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions, like allergies?
Definitely! You can easily accommodate dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free. If you have dairy allergies, substitute the heavy cream and yogurt with non-dairy alternatives, such as coconut milk and almond yogurt. Also, if you’re looking to cut down on meat, turkey bacon or even a vegetable-based bacon can bring that familiar flavor without the pork.

What herbs or spices can I add for extra flavor?
The more, the merrier! You can enhance your Outback Loaded Baked Potato Soup by incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try mixing in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. Fresh chives and a sprinkle of smoked paprika just before serving will elevate the flavor even more!