Outback Steakhouse’s Walkabout Onion Soup is a comforting, savory dish perfect for any occasion. A rich blend of caramelized onions, flavorful broth, and melted cheese, this soup brings the beloved flavors of the famous restaurant directly into your kitchen. The layers of taste, from the tender onions to the crispy toasted bread and gooey cheese, make it a hit every time. Whether you’re craving a cozy bowl of soup on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The key to its deep flavor lies in the slow caramelization of onions, which brings out their natural sweetness and depth. Topped with Swiss and Provolone cheeses and broiled to golden perfection, this soup is a true indulgence.

If you’ve ever tasted Outback Steakhouse’s signature onion soup and wanted to recreate it at home, this recipe makes it simple and accessible. You’ll enjoy the same comforting, rich flavor without leaving your house. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients and a little time, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich, Caramelized Onion Flavor

The slow caramelization process of the onions creates a deep, sweet flavor that forms the base of the soup, making each spoonful incredibly satisfying.

2. Perfectly Balanced Broth

The combination of beef broth, chicken broth, and beef consomme creates a rich, savory base that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

3. Melty, Gooey Cheese Topping

The Swiss and Provolone cheese combination melts perfectly over the toasted bread, adding a creamy, indulgent texture to each bite.

4. Restaurant-Quality at Home

Recreating a signature restaurant dish in the comfort of your own home is a rewarding experience that doesn’t require professional culinary skills.

5. Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing

This soup is a great starter for dinner parties, family gatherings, or just a comforting meal for yourself. It’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Large yellow onions, sliced
Butter
Sugar
Beef broth
Chicken broth
Beef consomme
Ground black pepper
Garlic powder
French bread, toasted
Swiss cheese
Provolone cheese

Variations

Cheese Options: If you prefer different cheeses, feel free to substitute the Swiss and Provolone with Gruyère, Cheddar, or Mozzarella.
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth in place of the beef and chicken broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version of the soup.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the soup a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the French bread with gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the sliced onions until they become translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure the onions cook evenly.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and continue stirring occasionally until they become caramelized and golden brown. This step can take about 15-20 minutes, but it’s crucial for developing the flavor.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef broth, chicken broth, beef consomme, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Prepare for Broiling

Preheat your oven broiler to high. While the soup simmers, toast the slices of French bread.

Step 5: Assemble the Soup

Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted French bread on top of each bowl, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of Provolone cheese.

Step 6: Broil the Soup

Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil them until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese is golden and bubbly, remove the bowls from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve the soup hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Caramelizing the onions: Be patient during the caramelization process, as this brings out the best flavors in the onions. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Broth quality: Use high-quality broth or stock for the best flavor. If possible, use homemade beef or chicken broth.
Oven-safe bowls: Make sure the bowls you’re using are oven-safe, as they’ll need to handle the broiler’s heat.

How to Serve

This Walkabout Onion Soup is best served immediately after broiling, while the cheese is still melted and gooey. Pair it with a light salad or serve as a starter before a hearty meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a comforting, satisfying main dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re storing the soup after broiling, it’s best to remove the bread and cheese beforehand, as they may become soggy when reheated.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen without the bread and cheese. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat the soup, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave. If reheating after freezing, make sure to add fresh toasted bread and cheese before broiling.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use Gruyère, Cheddar, or Mozzarella if you prefer a different cheese.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, replace the beef and chicken broth with vegetable broth and leave out the beef consomme for a vegetarian version.

3. How do I caramelize onions without burning them?

Caramelizing onions requires patience. Keep the heat on medium and stir frequently to avoid burning.

4. Can I use pre-made broth for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought broth, but homemade broth will give you a richer flavor.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze the soup without the bread and cheese. Add fresh bread and cheese when you’re ready to serve.

6. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste for a spicy kick.

7. What can I serve this soup with?

Pair it with a light salad, a baguette, or serve it as a standalone dish.

8. Can I skip the bread and cheese?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can skip the bread and cheese, but they do add to the flavor and texture.

9. How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Leftovers will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

10. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is a decadent, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese make each bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.