Why Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Wins

If you’re craving a soup that’s bursting with rich, savory flavors and topped with a luscious layer of melted cheese, then the Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is your perfect match. This beloved dish combines slow-cooked caramelized onions, a hearty broth, and a golden cheesy crust that creates a comforting experience with every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it as a starter or a cozy meal on its own, the Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is a fan favorite for its perfect blend of textures and tastes you won’t soon forget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deeply Flavored Onions: Slow caramelizing onions release natural sweetness that forms the soup’s rich base.
• Perfectly Balanced Broth: A savory beef broth adds warmth and depth without overpowering the onions.
• Cheesy Topping Magic: Melted provolone and Swiss cheese create a golden crust that’s deliciously gooey and irresistible.
• Comfort Food Classic: This soup delivers nostalgic flavors that satisfy cravings for something heartwarming and filling.
• Easy to Make at Home: The recipe uses straightforward ingredients yet turns out restaurant-quality results effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The simplicity of the ingredients in Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is what makes it so approachable, yet each component plays a vital role in building amazing flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

• Yellow Onions: The backbone of the soup, caramelized gently to bring out sweet and mellow tones.
• Beef Broth: Adds a rich and savory element that complements the onions beautifully.
• Butter and Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onions and enhancing their natural sugars during caramelization.
• Flour: Helps thicken the soup to a perfect consistency without making it heavy.
• Dried Thyme: Offers a subtle herbaceous note that lifts the entire soup.
• Baguette or French Bread Slices: Provides the base for the cheese topping, slightly toasted for extra texture.
• Swiss and Provolone Cheeses: Melt into a creamy, golden crust that finishes the soup beautifully.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a hint of umami for deeper complexity.

Variations for Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs—it’s easy to customize without losing that iconic flavor profile.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef broth with a rich vegetable broth to keep it hearty without meat.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Swiss and provolone with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different melty texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to infuse subtle heat.
• Herbal Twist: Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage to replace thyme for a unique aroma.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and bread to make it friendly for those with sensitivities.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Thinly slice yellow onions and gently cook them in butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Stir frequently for about 45 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and sweetly caramelized.

Step 2: Create the Soup Base

Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions and stir to coat, cooking for a minute to eliminate raw taste. Slowly add beef broth while stirring to combine, then season with thyme and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Let the soup simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to meld the flavors together and thicken slightly—this slow cooking is key to deep taste development.

Step 4: Prepare the Bread and Cheese

Slice the baguette and lightly toast the pieces. Once toasted, pile on a mix of Swiss and provolone cheese ready for broiling.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, place the bread on top, cover generously with cheese, and then broil until the cheese is golden and bubbling. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

• Low and Slow: Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat ensures deep sweetness and prevents burning.
• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or good-quality beef broth to maximize savory depth.
• Don’t Rush Caramelization: Patience is key—this step builds the whole soup’s flavor foundation.
• Toast Bread Wisely: Slightly toasting the bread prevents sogginess under the cheese topping.
• Broil for Perfect Cheese: Keep a close eye while broiling so the cheese browns beautifully without burning.

How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top adds a fresh contrast and visually lifts the soup.

Side Dishes

Pair this onion soup with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in individual crock bowls with a rustic baguette slice tucked on the side, or try a hollowed-out bread bowl presentation for extra charm and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the bread and cheese separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

The soup base freezes well without the bread or cheese—freeze in portions, then thaw overnight before reheating and assembling the cheesy topping fresh.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid burning or drying the soup; then add bread and cheese and broil just before serving to recapture that signature finish.

FAQs

What type of cheese is used in Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup?

The soup traditionally uses a blend of Swiss and provolone cheeses for their excellent melting qualities and rich flavor that perfectly complement the caramelized onions and broth.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out the beef broth for a hearty vegetable broth, and the soup will still be rich, comforting, and full of flavor.

How long should I caramelize the onions?

Plan on cooking the onions slowly for about 45 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown and develop their natural sweetness—that’s the secret to the soup’s depth.

Is this soup spicy?

By default, Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is savory and sweet rather than spicy, but you can easily add a touch of spice with cayenne or smoked paprika if you like.

What type of bread works best for the topping?

A sturdy baguette or French bread sliced and lightly toasted works best to hold the melted cheese without becoming too soggy too fast.

Final Thoughts

The Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—rich, cheesy, and utterly comforting. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special treat, it’s a recipe that delights with every bite. Grab your onions and get ready to whip up a favorite that’s bound to become a staple in your rotation.

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