Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup

why make this recipe

Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup is a comforting, deeply flavored soup that marries caramelized onions with rich cheddar for a creamy, satisfying bowl. It’s perfect for chilly nights, dinner starters, or whenever you want something simple but indulgent. If you like hearty comfort food with an easy shortcut approach, this is a great choice — similar cozy weeknight ideas include Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet, which pairs well with this soup for a fuller meal.

introduction

This version of Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup is inspired by the classic Outback-style soup: slow-caramelized sweet onions, a light savory broth, and plenty of cheddar melted in for creaminess. It’s straightforward to make at home with pantry-friendly ingredients and requires little hands-on technique beyond patient onion cooking. The recipe scales well and delivers a restaurant-style finish with minimal fuss.

Ingredients :

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 2 cubes chicken bouillon
• 2 large sweet onions, sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 4 cups water
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions :

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
2. Stir in the chicken bouillon cubes, Creole seasoning, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

how to make Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup

Start by slicing the onions evenly so they cook at the same rate. Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot to give the onions plenty of surface area to brown and to minimize burning. Be patient while caramelizing — low-to-medium heat and frequent stirring yield the best deep, sweet flavor. After adding the bouillon and water, taste and adjust seasonings before adding cheese; adding cheese slowly while stirring helps it melt smoothly into a silky soup rather than clumping. For a slightly smoother texture, remove the soup from heat briefly and whisk in the cheese gradually.

how to serve Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup

Serve piping hot in bowls with an optional garnish of freshly chopped parsley for color. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. For an indulgent presentation, top with a toasted slice of baguette and broil a little additional shredded cheddar on the toast, then float it on the soup.

how to store Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to reincorporate the cheese. Because cheese can separate after refrigeration, rewarming slowly and stirring helps restore creaminess. For longer storage, freeze without the cheese (cheese can become grainy after freezing); add freshly shredded cheese when reheating.

tips to make Walkabout Onion Cheese Soup

• Use sweet onions (like Vidalia) for natural sweetness that caramelizes well.
• Cook onions low and slow to develop deep flavor; don’t rush with high heat.
• Grate your own cheddar from a block — pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
• If you want a touch of depth, add a splash (1–2 teaspoons) of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
• For a heartier meal, serve alongside or include riffs on comfort sides like Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater-Tot Cones.

variation (if any)

• Make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable bouillon cubes for the chicken bouillon.
• Add cooked, diced ham or chunks of roast beef for extra protein.
• Stir in a splash of dry white wine when adding the water for a slightly brighter flavor.
• For a French onion twist, finish with a gruyere or Swiss-cheddar blend and serve with broiled cheesy croutons.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes — sharp cheddar gives the classic flavor, but gruyere, Swiss, or a cheddar-gruyere blend work well for a richer, more complex profile.

Q: My cheese clumped when I added it. What went wrong?
A: Add the cheese gradually off the heat and stir steadily; avoid boiling once the cheese is added. Using freshly shredded cheese helps prevent clumping.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: You can caramelize the onions first on the stove, then transfer to a slow cooker with the water and bouillon and simmer for a few hours before adding cheese at the end.

Conclusion

For a tried-and-true reference to the original inspiration, see this preserved recipe at Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Recipe – Food.com. For another home cook’s take and tips, check out Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Soup – Melissa Jo Real Recipes.