Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup: A Copycat Recipe for a Restaurant Favorite

Outback Steakhouse is renowned for its hearty, flavorful dishes, and one of its most beloved menu items is the Walkabout Onion Soup. This rich, savory soup features caramelized onions, a flavorful broth, and a generous topping of melted cheese and croutons. While dining out is a treat, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home with this easy-to-follow copycat recipe. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup, discuss the key ingredients, and provide tips for serving and storing this delicious dish.

Why Make Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup at Home?

Making Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup at home allows you to enjoy this restaurant favorite whenever the craving strikes. Not only is it cost-effective, but you also have control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome meal. Plus, the process of caramelizing onions and simmering the soup fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s sure to whet your appetite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large yellow onions: Yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness.
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps to caramelize the onions.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• 4 cups of beef broth: Beef broth forms the base of the soup and provides a rich, savory flavor.
• 1 cup of chicken broth: Chicken broth adds complexity to the soup’s flavor profile.
• A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce: This adds a tangy, umami flavor to the soup.
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves: Thyme adds a subtle herbal note that complements the onions.
• One bay leaf: A bay leaf infuses the soup with a mild, aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season the soup to your preference.
• 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor.
• A cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella adds a creamy, stretchy texture.
• 1 cup of croutons: Croutons add a satisfying crunch to the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup.

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by peeling and thinly slicing the yellow onions. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and cook, stirring now and then, until they become tender and golden brown. This process can take about 30-40 minutes. Be patient, as caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing their deep, sweet flavor.

Step 2: Add the Broths and Seasonings

Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef broth, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme leaves, and bay leaf to the pot. Mix well and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Topping

As the soup simmers, turn on your oven’s broiler to preheat. In a small bowl, combine the shredded Swiss cheese and mozzarella cheese. This mixture will be used to top the soup before broiling.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a handful of croutons, followed by a generous amount of the cheese mixture. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the soup to prevent the cheese from burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the soup bowls from the oven (they will be hot!) and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. The result is a rich, flavorful soup with a gooey, cheesy topping that’s sure to impress.

Health Benefits of Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

While Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is an indulgent dish, it also offers some nutritional benefits, especially when prepared with quality ingredients.

Onions

Onions are packed with antioxidants, especially quercetin, known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing benefits. They are also a good source of vitamins C and B6, as well as dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

Broth

Beef and chicken broths are rich in collagen, which supports joint health and promotes healthy skin. They also provide essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are important for bone health.

Cheese

Swiss and mozzarella cheeses are good sources of calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle repair. They also contain vitamins A and B12, which support vision and energy metabolism.

Croutons

While croutons are often seen as a garnish, they can add a satisfying crunch to the soup. Opt for whole-grain croutons to add a bit of fiber and nutrients to the dish.

Tips for Serving and Storing

Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is best enjoyed fresh, but there are a few tips to keep in mind for serving and storing:

• Serving Suggestions: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also garnish the soup with additional fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin the soup if it has thickened in the fridge.
• Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it without the cheese and crouton topping. Transfer the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove when ready to eat. Add fresh croutons and cheese before broiling to serve.

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By following this easy-to-follow copycat recipe, you can enjoy this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own home. With its caramelized onions, flavorful broth, and gooey cheese topping, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal, give this recipe a try and experience the magic of Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup for yourself!

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