Why Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Is A Must-Try

If you’re craving a soup that combines deeply savory flavors with rich, comforting textures, look no further than Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup. This iconic dish delivers a wonderful blend of caramelized onions, hearty broth, and melty cheese, creating a warm bowl perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re a fan of classic French onion soup or discovering this version for the first time, the Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup offers a delightful twist that you’ll want to make a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The caramelized onions and savory broth combine for a deep, satisfying taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This soup brings that cozy, homemade vibe which makes it perfect for chilly evenings or comfort meals.
• Melty Cheese Delight: The perfectly broiled cheese topping adds a luscious, gooey texture that elevates every spoonful.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: Using everyday pantry staples ensures you can whip this up anytime without hassle.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether as an appetizer or a main course, this soup fits beautifully on any menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in layering flavors, from the sweetness of caramelized onions to the richness from the broth, and the toasted bread and cheese that create the perfect finishing touch.

• Yellow Onions: Thinly sliced and slowly caramelized to unlock their natural sweetness and depth.
• Beef Broth: Provides a robust and hearty base that complements the onions perfectly.
• Butter: Used to sauté the onions and add richness to every bite.
• Garlic: Adds a subtle aromatic depth without overpowering the soup’s balance.
• Baguette Slices: Toasted and layered on top for that essential crunch and soak-up-power.
• Swiss and Provolone Cheese: Melted on top to create the signature golden, bubbly crust you can’t resist.
• Dry White Wine (optional): Enhances the broth flavor with a touch of acidity and complexity.
• Fresh Thyme: Infuses a gentle herbaceous flavor that brightens every spoonful.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning the soup to perfection.

Variations for Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Feel free to make this soup your own! The Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to switch up ingredients or cater to various dietary preferences.

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a plant-based alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to give the soup a gentle heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist on the topping.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the baguette with gluten-free bread or crispy croutons.
• Mushroom Addition: Sautéed mushrooms can add a meaty texture and enhance umami.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat and adding thinly sliced yellow onions. Stir frequently, cooking them slowly until they turn a rich golden brown and develop a natural sweetness, which usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Thyme

Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, add minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves. Cook for another minute until fragrant to establish a solid aromatic base.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in a splash of dry white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors in your broth.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer

Add beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Bread and Cheese

While the soup simmers, toast baguette slices until golden brown. Then, top them generously with Swiss and provolone cheese.

Step 6: Broil the Soup

Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place the bread and cheese topping over the soup, then put the bowls under the broiler until the cheese bubbles and turns golden, creating that iconic crust.

Pro Tips for Making Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

• Slow Cooking is Key: Take your time caramelizing onions to develop the deepest flavor and sweetness.
• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality beef broth for the richest taste.
• Don’t Skip the Broil: The cheese layer is crucial for texture and flavor contrast, so broil until bubbly.
• Season Gradually: Add salt in stages to avoid over-seasoning and balance the natural sweetness.
• Keep an Eye on Bread: Toast baguette slices just right to prevent sogginess while still absorbing the soup flavors.

How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the soup. A pinch of cracked black pepper can also enhance the aroma right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair the soup with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a light sandwich complements its hearty nature perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic, oven-safe crocks or mini cast iron skillets for a charming farmhouse touch. You can even float a slice of toasted baguette layered with cheese right on top of larger soup bowls for inviting layering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the toasted bread separate to preserve its crunch.

Freezing

This soup freezes well without the bread topping. Store cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add fresh toasted baguette and cheese topping, then broil briefly to restore that signature melted crust.

FAQs

Is Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup similar to classic French onion soup?

Yes, it shares many traditional elements like caramelized onions, broth, and cheese but offers a unique blend of flavors with its signature Outback twist.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the beef broth with rich vegetable broth while keeping the other ingredients intact.

What cheeses work best for the topping?

Swiss and provolone are authentic to this recipe, but Gruyère or mozzarella can provide delicious alternatives.

How long does it take to caramelize the onions properly?

It usually takes between 30 to 40 minutes of slow cooking for onions to reach that perfect golden-brown, sweet stage.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?

Yes, you can make the soup base ahead and refrigerate it. Add bread and cheese topping just before serving and broil to finish.

Final Thoughts

Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is truly a culinary gem that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to your table. With its hearty broth, sweet caramelized onions, and irresistible cheesy topping, this soup becomes an instant favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it’s a recipe worth trying again and again.

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