Introduction
If you’ve ever been to Outback, you know the magic of their Walkabout Onion Soup. The Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Recipe 2025 has been one of the most sought-after comfort foods, and now you can make it right in your kitchen.
As a chef, I’ve always loved how this soup recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich caramelized onions, velvety broth, and creamy cheese. It’s indulgent yet familiar — a dish that warms the soul with every spoonful.
In this 2025 version, I’ve added my own touch to make it extra flavorful while still keeping it true to its steakhouse roots. So, grab your pot, onions, and cheese — because tonight, we’re bringing Outback to your home! 🍲
Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this copycat recipe delivers the restaurant feel—without the bill.
So let’s get into the recipe!
🍲 What Is Walkabout Onion Soup?
Before we dive in, here’s what makes Walkabout Onion Soup so iconic:
♥ Inspired by French onion soup, but creamier and cheesier
♥ Made with sweet onions, not sharp yellow or red ones
♥ Includes a white sauce base rather than just beef broth
♥ Topped with melted Velveeta or cheddar for extra indulgence
♥ Once served at Outback Steakhouse, now a cult favorite
♥ It’s comfort food with a creamy twist!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Soup Recipe
» Tastes just like the original Outback favorite
» Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness
» Easy to make with simple ingredients
» Budget-friendly and perfect for any season
» Customizable for different diets
» Great for meal prep and leftovers
» A comforting, crowd-pleasing classic!
🧅 A Restaurant-Style Soup You Can Make at Home
» Growing up in a kitchen-loving household, I always admired how certain restaurant dishes created unforgettable moments. One of those?
» The creamy, cheesy Walkabout Onion Soup from Outback Steakhouse. While it’s no longer on their regular menu, it still lives on in the hearts (and cravings!) of fans everywhere—including mine.
» Let’s bring the steakhouse home!
🧂 Kitchen Equipment Required For This Soup Recipe
♥ Large saucepan or Dutch oven
♥ Whisk
♥ Measuring cups and spoons
♥ Chef’s knife – For thinly slicing onions
♥ Cutting board – To prep onions and optional garnishes
♥ Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring onions and mixing ingredients
♥ Oven-safe soup bowls or ramekins – For broiling the cheesy topping
♥ Ladle – For serving the soup neatly into bowls
♥ Baking sheet (optional)
Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Recipe Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this nostalgic favorite at home:
♥ Sweet onions (Recommended: Vidalia)
♥ Butter – for sautéing and starting the roux
♥ All-purpose flour – to thicken the soup
♥ Whole milk – gives it a creamy texture
♥ Chicken broth – adds savory depth
♥ Velveeta cheese – essential for that signature flavor
♥ Garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper
♥ Shredded cheddar – for the perfect melty topping
♥ Optional: Worcestershire sauce, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for a flavor kick
✅ Substitutions:
» Use gluten-free flour for a GF version
» Use plant-based milk and cheese to make it dairy-free
» Add mushrooms or bacon for extra umami
🧀 Topping Ingredients For Walkabout Onion Soup
🧂✨ Popular Topping Ingredients
» Shredded Cheddar Cheese
♥ Classic, sharp, and melty—adds richness and that signature cheesy finish.
» Swiss or Provolone Cheese
♥ Great melty options if you prefer a milder or nuttier taste.
» Toasted Bread Rounds or Croutons
♥ Add crunch and soak up the creamy broth beautifully.
» Chopped Fresh Chives or Green Onions
♥ For a pop of color and a mild oniony bite.
» Crispy Bacon Bits
♥ Optional—but adds a smoky crunch and deep flavor contrast.
» Parmesan Cheese (Optional)
♥ Sprinkle for a salty, savory punch just before broiling.
How to Make Outbreak Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup
🔪 Step 1: Prepare and Caramelize the Onions
♥ Start by slicing 2–3 large sweet onions (like Vidalia) into thin, even slices.
♥ In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat.
♥ Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently, allowing them to slowly soften and turn golden. This process takes about 12–15 minutes.
♥ Don’t rush! Caramelizing onions slowly develops their natural sweetness and deep flavor—the soul of the soup.
🧈 Step 2: Make the Roux (Thickened White Sauce Base)
♥ Once the onions are soft and golden, push them to the side of the pan and add another 2 tablespoons of butter.
♥ Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a light roux. Now cook for at least 1–2 minutes & cook evenly.
♥ Now add in 1 cup of whole milk, whisking properly & make it a smooth texture.
♥ Then, add 2 cups of chicken broth in a slow stream while whisking. This will help thicken the soup while building a smooth, creamy base.
🧀 Step 3: Melt Cheese & Add Seasoning
♥ Lower the heat to medium-low and add 1 cup of diced Velveeta cheese (or American cheese). Stir gently as it melts into the soup.
♥ Now add the following ingredients: half a teaspoon of garlic powder, half a teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, & salt accordingly.
♥ You can also add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or paprika for extra flavor depth.
♥ Now, simmer the soup gently for at least 10 minutes. Do not boil—it may cause the cheese to separate.
🥣 Step 4: Assemble and Broil
♥ Preheat your oven to the broil setting (high).
♥ Now, broil the hot soup or ramekins. Top each bowl generously with shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
♥ Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely—it can burn quickly!
🍽️ Step 5: Garnish, Serve, and Enjoy!
» Carefully remove the hot bowls from the oven and let them cool slightly.
» Garnish with parsley or cracked pepper.
» Serve with toasted bread, garlic baguette slices, or even a buttery dinner roll for dipping.
🧀 Cheese Topping Tip:
Always add fresh cheese topping after reheating, not before storing. This keeps the texture smooth and prevents curdling or graininess.
Tips for Perfect Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup
Want to level up your soup game?
Try these pro tips:
♥ Caramelize slowly: Don’t rush the onions. Low and slow = flavor gold.
♥ Avoid overheating for a perfect copycat version.
♥ Add umami: Add Worcestershire sauce for enhanced flavors.
♥ Cheese topping matters: Use sharp cheddar or Gruyère for extra richness.
♥ Use Velveeta cheese for a silky, authentic Outback taste.
♥ For depth, add a splash of white wine while cooking the onions.
🍴 Serving Suggestions & Ideas
This soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but here are some perfect pairings:
» Steakhouse Salad – fresh greens with ranch or vinaigrette.
» Grilled Steak – the ultimate Outback-style pairing.
» Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
🔄 Recipe Variations You Can Try
Want to customize your soup?
Try these:
♥ Vegetarian Version: Use veggie broth and plant-based cheese
♥ Add-ins: Try mushrooms, bacon bits, or diced potatoes for a twist
♥ Slow Cooker: Simmer your soup all day for enhanced flavor & taste.
» How is this different from French onion soup?
It’s creamier, has cheese throughout the soup (not just on top), and uses chicken broth.
🎉 Soup Variations You Can Try
Want to add your own twist? Try these flavorful variations:
» Extra Cheesy Soup – add Gruyère or Swiss for extra meltiness.
» Onion & Mushroom Soup – earthy flavor with sautéed mushrooms.
» Spicy Walkabout Soup – stir in cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
» Bacon-Topped Soup – crispy bacon crumbles for extra crunch.
🔥 Topping Tips for Perfection: Walkabout Onion Soup
» Broil Before Serving:
Broil after adding cheese & bread, until you get bubbly & brownish for restaurant-style.
» Use Oven-Safe Bowls:
Make sure your soup bowls are broiler-safe before placing them under high heat.
» Layer Like a Pro:
Place croutons or bread first, then cheese—so the cheese seals in the crispiness.
» Add Toppings Just Before Serving:
Especially for reheated leftovers. It keeps textures fresh and cheese perfectly melty.
» Balance is Key:
Don’t overload with cheese—too much can overpower the soup’s creamy base.
Ingredient Substitutes for Walkabout Onion Soup
| Original Ingredient | Substitutes | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow onions | Sweet onions, white onions | Slightly different sweetness |
| Velveeta cheese | Cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella | Melts differently but delicious |
| Chicken broth | Beef broth, vegetable broth | Flavor variations |
| Whole milk | Half & half, evaporated milk | Creamier or richer base |
🧅 Onion
» Substitute with: Yellow onions, white onions, or shallots
» Note: Use sweet onions (like Vidalia) for that signature flavor, but yellow onions with a pinch of sugar also work well.
🧈 Butter
» Substitute with: Olive oil, margarine, or ghee
» Note: Butter gives a richer taste, but olive oil keeps it dairy-free.
🧂 Chicken Broth
» Substitute with: Vegetable broth, beef broth, or mushroom broth
» Note: Vegetable broth for vegetarians, beef for a deeper flavor.
🧀 Velveeta Cheese
» Substitute with: American cheese or cream cheddar cheese
» Note: Avoid sharp cheddar alone—it can turn grainy.
» Note: Use full-fat non-dairy milk for a creamy consistency if going dairy-free.
🌾 All-Purpose Flour
» Substitute with: Cornstarch slurry, gluten-free flour blend, or arrowroot powder
» Note: For gluten-free diets, cornstarch is the easiest thickening agent.
🧂Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder)
» Substitute with: Use to taste, or add onion powder, paprika, or herbs like thyme
» Note: Customize to your flavor preference—this soup is very flexible.
💡 My Pro Exclusive Tip:
- To make it extra decadent, try layering a thin slice of toasted French bread on top of the soup before adding cheese—just like French onion soup but with a creamy twist!
🕐 Prep Time: 10 mins
🕐 Cook Time: 30 mins
🍽️ Total Time: 40 mins
🍲 Serves: 6
What to Serve with Walkabout Onion Soup
» The Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup can be paired with the right side dishes to enhance the overall dining experience—whether you’re serving it as a starter, main course, or cozy weeknight meal.
» Here are some delicious and well-balanced options:
♥ Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast – Perfect for dipping and balancing the creaminess
♥ Fresh Green Salad – Adds crunch and a refreshing contrast
♥ Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A cheesy, comforting pairing
♥ Grilled Chicken or Steak Tips – Turns it into a complete, hearty meal
♥ Roasted or Mashed Potatoes – Great for soaking up the rich broth
♥ Pasta Salad or Light Pasta – Adds variety without overpowering
♥ Roasted Vegetables – Earthy sides like carrots or mushrooms work beautifully
♥ Wine or Iced Tea – Pair with white wine, Pinot Noir, or sweet tea for the perfect finish
🧑🍳 Chef Tip:
“Think balance. If your Walkabout Onion Soup is your cozy, creamy main, pair it with something crisp, fresh, or protein-packed to round out your plate!”
Best Alternate Recipes to Walkabout Onion Soup
If you loved the Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup, you’re in for a treat! These recipes offer similar comfort, flavor depth, and creamy textures—perfect for those who enjoy restaurant-style dishes made right at home.
» French Onion Soup
» Potato Leek Soup – Creamy and subtly sweet
» Roasted Garlic & Onion Soup – Rich, bold, and savory
» Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Cheesy comfort in a bowl
» Creamy Mushroom Soup – Earthy and deeply flavorful
» Corn Chowder – Sweet, smoky, and hearty
» Zuppa Toscana – Spicy sausage, kale, and creamy broth
» Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
» Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup
» Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
🧑🍳 Chef Recommends:
“Rotate these into your weekly dinner plan to keep comfort food interesting! Each one offers a unique twist while still delivering the same warm, satisfying experience as Walkabout Onion Soup.”
Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Recipe Card
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté onions in butter until soft and golden.
- Now add in flour & whisk gently to gat a roux texture.
- Slowly add chicken broth and milk, stirring until smooth.
- Add Velveeta cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Also add some salt, pepper, & garlic powder according to your taste.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Ladle into bowls, top with cheddar, and broil if desired.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use yellow onions with a touch of sugar if sweet onions aren’t available.
- For enhanced flavor, add beef broth or use Worcestershire sauce.
- Store leftovers without cheese topping; reheat gently before adding fresh cheese.
- Easily doubled for a crowd or meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and mild, cheesy flavor make it a favorite among kids. Just avoid spicy add-ins if serving to younger children.
Why did my soup turn grainy?
This happens if the cheese is added at too high a temperature or boiled. Keep the heat low when melting Velveeta or other cheeses to ensure a smooth texture.
What kind of milk should I use?
Whole milk works best for creaminess. You can also use half-and-half for extra richness or 2% milk for a lighter version. Avoid skim milk—it may be too watery.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use vegetarian-friendly cheese. The flavor will still be rich, sweet, and satisfying.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare the soup a day in advance, refrigerate it, and reheat before serving. Add the cheese topping and broil just before eating for the best result.
Can I use non-dairy milk in this soup?
You can! Unsweetened oat milk or cashew milk works well as a dairy-free option. Avoid flavored or sweetened varieties—they can alter the taste.
My Final Conclusion
The Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Recipe 2025 is a true comfort classic. 🧅 As a chef, I find so much joy in recreating restaurant favorites at home — and this soup recipe is one of my all-time personal favorites.
» It’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or impressing guests with a homemade restaurant-style dish.
The Outback Walkabout Onion Soup may no longer be on the official menu, but now you’ve got everything you need to bring it back in full glory—right in your kitchen! 🏠 From its creamy base to its golden topping, every spoonful is a cozy hug. If you loved it, try our other Outback copycat recipes coming soon. Till then,
Happy cooking!
