Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe

There’s something super cozy about a warm bowl of French onion soup any time of year.

Outback Steakhouse has perfected theirs, known for its rich heartiness and deep, savory flavors with cheesy topping.

I love crafting this one right at home with its aromatic onions caramelized and combined with flavorful broth.

One secret to nailing this is to take your time with the onions, ensuring they reach that perfect caramelized state for the best flavor.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp Butter
• 3 medium Onions (sliced)
• 1 qt Beef Broth
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Flour
• 2 cubes Beef Bouillon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently until onions are soft and translucent.

Keep the heat low to avoid browning the onions.

Step 2:

Sprinkle flour over the onions, stirring continuously to blend.

This step forms a base for the soup’s consistency that you’ll love!

Step 3:

Gradually add the beef broth and bouillon cubes.

Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while ensuring all flour lumps are dissolved.

Step 4:

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.

You should avoid boiling the cream to prevent it from curdling.

Step 5:

Add the cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

It’s always best to use the freshest onions and high-quality cheese you can find for the ultimate flavor.

The quality of your ingredients can really make a big difference!

Prevent Curdling

Make sure to add the cream at a low temperature and avoid boiling the soup once the cream is added.

This step helps keep everything smooth and creamy.

Customize With Cheese

Though cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other types of cheese.

Try Swiss or Gruyère for different flavor profiles that are equally delicious.

Make It Ahead

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.

Just reheat gently on the stove to save time without sacrificing fresh flavors.

Perfect Slicing

Slice your onions thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.

This method results in golden, tender onions without raw spots.

What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup

Crusty Bread

One of the best ways to enjoy French onion soup is with slices of crusty bread.

You can choose a classic French baguette or a hearty sourdough.

The bread helps soak up the savory broth and adds a bit of texture with every bite.

Green Salad

A fresh green salad makes a light and refreshing side dish with your rich soup.

Try a mix of baby greens, arugula, and spinach with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

This contrast between the warm soup and the crisp salad is simply wonderful.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini can complement the flavors of the soup very well.

The caramelized edges and natural sweetness of roasted veggies bring a delightful balance.

Try seasoning them with a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for added flavor.

Cheese Plate

A small cheese plate featuring a variety of cheeses like Gruyère, brie, and blue cheese is a fantastic option.

Cheese enhances the existing flavors while giving you something rich and savory to nibble on.

Add a few grapes or nuts to the plate for an extra touch.

Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables might be a surprising choice, yet they offer a tangy kick that cuts through the soup’s richness.

Think of pickled radishes, cucumbers, or even pickled red onions.

They also add a bit of crunch, which pairs well with the creamy soup.

I love experimenting with different pickling spices when preparing these at home!

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Choices

You can use different types of cheese to experiment with flavor. Traditional Gruyère cheese works wonderfully, but Swiss cheese is an easy substitute.

If you prefer a stronger flavor, try using a mix of Parmesan and sharp cheddar.

Onion Types

Sweet onions are typically used, but yellow onions can add a more robust flavor.

If you want a hint of mildness, consider using Vidalia onions in your soup.

Broth Options

Beef broth is the classic choice for French onion soup. You can enhance the rich flavor with a splash of red wine or brandy.

Vegetarian broth is a great substitute for those who want a meat-free version.

Bread Variations

Crusty French bread is the go-to for topping, but sourdough can add a tangy twist.

A slightly toasted bread holds up better if you prefer a thicker slice.

Herb Enhancements

Adding thyme or bay leaves can deepen the aromatic profile of your soup.

For a fresh upgrade, garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives right before serving.

How to Store Leftover Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup

When you’re done with your hearty meal, you might be wondering what to do with the leftover French onion soup.

To keep it fresh, the first step is letting it cool down completely before storing it.

In the Refrigerator

Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container.

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it easy to enjoy later.

Airtight containers help preserve the rich flavors and aroma during those few days.

In the Freezer

For longer storage, freezing is a great option.

Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe, airtight container.

Label the container with the date for reference, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup might expand while freezing.

Quick Tips

Avoid storing directly in the serving dish, as it might lead to spills and takes up unnecessary space.

Using glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids will keep the soup at its best.

You can also divide it into smaller portions before storing, for easily grabbing a single serving when you’re ready to enjoy more.

Happy storing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Thickening the Soup

It’s so tempting to add extra flour to get that perfect thickness, but resist the urge!

Adding too much can make your soup too heavy, masking its delicate flavors.

Keep it light by gradually mixing the flour and monitoring the consistency closely.

Using High Heat

Cooking everything on high might seem like a time-saver, but it changes the soup’s texture and flavor.

Low and slow is key here; it lets the onions release their sweetness without burning them.

Patience pays off with perfect caramelization and a rich depth of flavor.

Not Tasting as You Cook

Every ingredient brings its own personality to the pot, so tasting throughout is crucial.

Adjusting salt, pepper, and other seasonings as you go makes sure your soup is balanced and flavorful.

Don’t wait until the end as it might be too late to fix any seasoning missteps.