There’s something satisfying about a warm bowl of soup that tastes just like you ordered it from a restaurant version—but without the takeout bill. That’s where copycat soups come in. These homemade versions of iconic restaurant recipes let you recreate the comforting flavors you love. If you’re wondering how to start, here are 10 delicious soups you can recreate in your kitchen.
Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana
This rich and hearty soup features Italian sausage, russet potatoes, and kale. The original version is a staple at Olive Garden, and this version lets you recreate the flavors at home. To prepare, brown the sausage first, then simmer with chicken broth and red pepper flakes before finishing with heavy cream and fresh kale.
Red Lobster’s Clam Chowder
To mimic this restaurant’s flavor and for an aromatic base, use canned chopped clams and clam juice sauteed with onions and celery. A roux thickens the soup, while heavy cream or half-and-half gives it that luscious, rich texture. You can add bacon bits for an extra layer of smokiness, though it’s optional.
P.F. Chang’s Hot and Sour Soup
P.F. Chang’s Hot and Sour Soup is a spicy dish that combines earthy mushrooms and tofu. To copy, start by simmering shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and a mix of chicken and vegetable broths. Add soy sauce and rice vinegar for a savory base, followed by a generous amount of white pepper.
Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
The Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla soup is packed with shredded chicken, navy and black beans, and a blend of southwestern spices. Its copycat version uses cream-based chicken soup and salsa verde. Add chicken thighs to this recipe as they stay juicy and tender after simmering. You can top each bowl with crushed tortilla chips.
Chicken And Wild Rice Soup
This classic Chicken and Wild Rice Soup from Starbucks is creamy and loaded with flavor. It uses a mix of wild and long-grain rice, shredded chicken, carrots, and celery in a thick, creamy base. A touch of poultry seasoning and garlic enhances the homemade flavor, while half-and-half keeps it rich without being too heavy.
Outback Steakhouse’s Walkabout Onion Soup
Though no longer on the menu, Outback’s Walkabout Onion Soup was once beloved for its French onion-style richness. This copycat version combines sweet yellow onions, slowly caramelized in butter with beef broth and a splash of sherry. It is then topped with slices of toasted baguette, melted Monterey Jack, and cheddar cheese.
McAlister’s Deli’s Chicken Tortilla Soup
This soup features a bold Tex-Mex flavor with shredded chicken, tomatoes, and corn in a spicy broth. It’s heartier than traditional versions and often includes sour cream stirred directly into the soup for added creaminess. Garnished with cheddar cheese and avocado, it’s an all-in-one meal. The use of enchilada sauce gives it an authentic flavor.
Applebee’s Baked Potato Soup
Applebee’s Baked Potato Soup is a creamy soup that you can copy, though it’s no longer on the menu. Start by boiling russet potatoes until soft. Then, saute onions and garlic in butter before adding chicken broth and heavy cream. Mash the potatoes slightly to thicken the soup, and pour in some shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.
Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup
A tomato and chicken broth base is spiced with cumin and garlic and filled with rice and tender chicken. Recreating Chili’s version involves lime juice and fresh cilantro for that bright finish. It’s often served with tortilla strips and shredded cheese and is a favorite among those who love spicy dishes.
Cracker Barrel’s Chicken N’ Dumplings Soup
For this soup, tender chicken is simmered with carrots and simple drop dumplings in a rich broth. The key to making dumplings like Cracker Barrel’s is not over-mixing—keeping the dough light and fluffy is essential. Many recipes use flour, baking powder, milk, and butter for a rustic texture.
Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a fan favorite for a good reason—it’s cheesy and filled with broccoli florets. A copycat starts with sauteed onions and butter, then flour is added to create a roux. Milk and chicken or vegetable broth make up the base, while cheddar cheese and freshly steamed broccoli complete the flavor profile.
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