Name: Walkabout Onion Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large yellow or sweet onions, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups chicken broth or beef broth; 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/8 tsp white pepper (optional); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); Croutons or toasted bread (optional, for serving)

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This Walkabout Onion Soup is a rich, creamy take on classic onion soup — inspired by the beloved version once served at Outback Steakhouse. I love how it blends sweet caramelized onions with a creamy, cheesy broth that’s deeply comforting and full of bold flavor. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for cooler days or when I’m craving something indulgent.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly flavorful, yet so simple to make. Unlike traditional French onion soup, this version is thickened slightly and finished with a creamy, cheesy touch that makes it feel like a true comfort dish. The sweetness of the onions paired with savory broth and melted cheese on top makes every spoonful irresistible. And the best part? I can make it all in one pot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Yellow or sweet onions, thinly sliced
Butter
All-purpose flour
Chicken broth or beef broth
Half-and-half or whole milk
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
White pepper (optional, for added flavor)
Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Croutons or toasted bread (for serving, optional)

Directions

Caramelize the onions
I melt butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Then I add the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and golden — about 25–30 minutes.
Add the flour
Once the onions are caramelized, I sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat. I cook this mixture for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Add the broth
I gradually pour in the broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. I bring the soup to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.
Stir in the cream
I reduce the heat and add the half-and-half or milk. I stir until the soup is creamy and smooth. Then I season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and white pepper if using.
Simmer and serve
I let the soup simmer gently for another 5–10 minutes to blend all the flavors. Then I ladle it into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese. I sometimes add croutons or toasted bread on top for extra texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~40 minutes
Total time: ~50 minutes

Variations

I use beef broth for a deeper flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
I swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different cheesy twist
I add a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce for umami depth
I stir in a bit of cream cheese for extra richness
I blend the soup slightly for a smoother consistency

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: I freeze the soup (without cheese or croutons) for up to 2 months. I reheat gently and add fresh toppings when ready to serve.

Reheating: I reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

What makes this soup different from French onion soup?

Walkabout Onion Soup is creamier and slightly thickened, unlike traditional French onion soup which is more broth-based and topped with broiled cheese and bread.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes, I can use all broth or substitute with non-dairy milk or unsweetened oat cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.

What onions work best?

I use yellow or sweet onions for their mild flavor and natural sweetness. They caramelize beautifully and make the soup extra rich.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

I can, but I prefer shredding my own cheddar for better meltability and smoother texture.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

I stir the cheese in gradually off the heat or simply use it as a topping after ladling the soup into bowls to avoid clumps.

Conclusion

This Walkabout Onion Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and so easy to make. I love how it turns simple ingredients into something cozy and satisfying — perfect for weeknights, weekend meals, or whenever I want a warm, cheesy bowl of comfort. It’s a nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style.