Experience the cozy warmth and savory delight of Outback Steakhouse’s famous Walkabout Onion Soup from the comfort of your own kitchen! This hearty soup, with its rich broth, caramelized onions, and cheesy topping, is a comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a bowl of homemade goodness. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, techniques, and variations that bring this beloved copycat recipe to life.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sliced yellow sweet onions
- 1 can chicken broth, 15 ounces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1/4 cup diced Velveeta cheese
- 1.5 cups of white sauce (see below)
- Shredded cheddar cheese as garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the white sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the White Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and salt until smooth. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Set aside.
- Caramelize Onions: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
- Make the Broth: Add chicken broth and chicken bouillon cubes to the pot with the caramelized onions. Stir well to combine.
- Add White Sauce: Pour the prepared white sauce into the pot with the onions and broth. Stir until well combined.
- Add Velveeta Cheese: Stir in diced Velveeta cheese until melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cook Notes:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions. Low and slow is the key to achieving that sweet, rich flavor.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding the cheese.
Variations:
- French Onion Style: Top each bowl of soup with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous sprinkling of Gruyere cheese. Place under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Beer-Battered Onion Rings: Serve the soup with a side of crispy beer-battered onion rings for an extra indulgent twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the flour in the white sauce with almond flour or coconut flour. Use a keto-friendly cheese instead of Velveeta, such as cheddar or Gouda.
- Low-Carb Option: Omit the flour entirely from the white sauce and use xanthan gum as a thickener instead. Substitute Velveeta with a low-carb cheese alternative, such as cream cheese or goat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth? A: Yes, you can use beef broth for a richer flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While you can freeze the soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but freezing is an option if needed.
Indulge in the comforting embrace of Outback Steakhouse’s Walkabout Copycat Onion Soup, a bowl of homemade goodness that warms the soul and delights the senses. With its rich broth, caramelized onions, and cheesy topping, this soup is a true comfort classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a cozy meal for one or shared with loved ones around the table, this copycat recipe brings the taste of Outback Steakhouse right to your home kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor every spoonful of this delectable soup. With its irresistible flavors and satisfying texture, Outback Steakhouse’s Walkabout Copycat Onion Soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire!