Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version Recipe

Welcome to my copycat Bennigan’s potato soup-lightened version recipe! If you’re a fan of potato soup, then you’ll definitely want to give this recipe a try. The Bennigan’s baked potato soup knockoff is one of my favorites, but I wanted to make it a bit healthier. This lightened version of the soup is still creamy and flavorful, but with a few ingredient swaps, it’s a bit lighter on the waistline.

Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe is no exception. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or a lazy Sunday afternoon. The soup is loaded with the goodness of baked potatoes, fresh garlic, onions, and creamy 1% low-fat milk. I’ve used chicken broth to enhance the flavor, and the addition of Colby cheese gives the soup a cheesy kick.

This recipe is easy to make and takes less than an hour from start to finish. You can also make it in a pressure cooker or slow cooker if you prefer. The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve.

So, if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy potato soup recipe, look no further! Let’s get started on making this copycat Bennigan’s potato soup lightened version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of potato soup, then you’re going to love this copycat Bennigan’s potato soup lightened version recipe. Not only is this soup recipe deliciously creamy and cheesy, but it’s also much healthier than the original version.

Made with fresh garlic, onions, butter, margarine, baking potatoes, 1% low-fat milk, and chicken broth, this soup is a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Plus, the addition of crispy bacon, scallions, and colby cheese takes this soup to the next level.

What I love about this recipe is that it’s so easy to make, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe or a comforting meal to warm you up on a cold winter day, this potato soup recipe is sure to hit the spot.

So, if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy soup recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor, then look no further than this copycat Bennigan’s potato soup lightened version recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Ingredient List

Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients we need for this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version Recipe. Here are the ingredients you will need:

For the soup:

• 3 lbs baking potatoes, scrubbed clean (about 4 large potatoes)
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced (about 2 cloves)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups 1% low-fat milk
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

For the toppings:

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded Colby cheese

You can find these ingredients easily at your local grocery store. If you want to make a vegetarian version of this soup, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. Don’t forget to scrub the potatoes clean before using them to avoid any dirt or debris in your soup.

The Recipe How-To

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it is time to get cooking. This copycat Bennigan’s potato soup-lightened version recipe is straightforward, and it doesn’t require any special skills to prepare. Follow these simple steps, and you will have a pot of delicious and creamy soup ready to serve.

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

Start by scrubbing 3 lbs of baking potatoes thoroughly. After cleaning, peel the potatoes to remove any dirt or blemishes. Once peeled, cut them into small pieces, about half an inch in size.

Step 2: Cooking the Potatoes

In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or margarine over medium-high heat. Once melted, add 2 minced cloves of fresh garlic and 1 chopped onion. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent.

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in 6 cups of 1% low-fat milk and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Making the Soup Base

Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth. Return the soup to the pot and place it back on the stove over low heat.

Step 4: Adding the Cheese and Bacon

Stir in 3 tablespoons of flour to thicken the soup. Then, add 8 oz of shredded Colby cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and is fully incorporated into the soup.

For a cheesy potato soup with bacon, cook 6 slices of bacon in a separate pan until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and crumble it into small pieces. Add the bacon pieces to the soup and stir to combine.

Step 5: Seasoning the Soup

Season the soup with 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and 1 teaspoon of salt or to taste. If you find the soup too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to thin it out.

Step 6: Serving the Soup

Ladle the soup into individual bowls and garnish with chopped scallions and crispy bacon bits if desired. This copycat Bennigan’s potato soup-lightened version recipe pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.

With these easy-to-follow instructions, you can make a creamy potato soup that is as good as the original. Enjoy your soup, and don’t forget to share it with your family and friends!

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up, here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version recipe.

– Vegetarian option: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits for a similar flavor and texture.

– Gluten-free option: To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to double-check that all of your ingredients are gluten-free, including the chicken broth.

– Slow cooker option: You can easily adapt this recipe to a slow cooker by following the steps for sautéing the garlic and onions, then adding all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours. This is a great option if you want to come home to a warm and comforting bowl of soup after a long day.

– Pressure cooker option: If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to cook the potatoes and broth together for 10-12 minutes. Then, follow the recipe as written, adding the milk, cheese, and bacon at the end. This will give you the same delicious flavor and creamy texture in a fraction of the time.

– Loaded potato soup: If you want to make this soup even more indulgent, try adding your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, and extra bacon. You can also mix in some shredded cheddar cheese or top with croutons for added crunch.

– Cheesy potato soup: For an extra cheesy twist, add more shredded Colby cheese to the soup and stir until melted. You can also use different types of cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a unique flavor combination.

Whatever variations you decide to try, this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version recipe is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.

Serving and Pairing

This creamy and hearty potato soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or main course. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad, warm bread, or some crackers.

For a more indulgent experience, you can garnish the soup with some crumbled bacon and sliced scallions. The smoky and salty flavor of the bacon complements the creaminess of the soup, while the scallions add a fresh and crunchy texture.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can skip the bacon and scallions and instead sprinkle some black pepper and a pinch of salt on top of the soup. This will enhance the natural taste of the potatoes and the cheese, without adding extra calories or sodium.

In terms of beverages, this soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity and citrus notes in the wine help cut through the richness of the soup, while the light and refreshing taste cleanses your palate after each spoonful.

Alternatively, you can also serve this soup with a cold beer, such as a lager or a pale ale. The carbonation and bitterness in the beer balance out the creaminess of the soup, while the maltiness and hoppy notes add depth and complexity to the flavor.

Overall, this potato soup is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to fit any occasion or preference. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a fancy appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version Recipe is that you can make it ahead of time and store it for later. This soup is perfect for meal planning or batch cooking since it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

To make this soup ahead of time, simply follow the recipe instructions as usual but let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently to avoid any hot spots.

If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The soup will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it using the same methods mentioned above.

When reheating the soup, you may notice that the texture is a little different than when it was freshly made. This is because the potatoes in the soup will have absorbed more liquid, making the soup slightly thicker. If you find that the soup is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of chicken broth or 1% low-fat milk.

Overall, this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version Recipe is perfect for meal planning, batch cooking, or simply making ahead for a busy weeknight. With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy this delicious and comforting soup whenever you want!

Tips for Perfect Results

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, making the best copycat Bennigan’s potato soup-lightened version recipe requires some tips to achieve a perfect result. Here are some tips that will help you achieve a delicious and creamy potato soup that you will love.

First, make sure to use baking potatoes that are scrubbed clean. Using clean potatoes will prevent any dirt or debris from getting into your soup. Additionally, using baking potatoes will give your soup a creamy texture that you won’t get with other types of potatoes.

Next, use chicken broth instead of water. Using chicken broth will add a depth of flavor to your soup that water won’t achieve. You can use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.

When adding the flour to the butter, make sure to whisk the mixture constantly. Whisking will prevent lumps from forming and will help create a smooth roux. A smooth roux will make your soup less grainy and more velvety.

To prevent the soup from curdling, add the milk slowly and stir continuously. Using 1% low-fat milk will make your soup lighter without compromising the flavor.

When adding the cheese, make sure to shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly. Shredding the cheese yourself will ensure that it melts evenly and gives your soup a cheesy and creamy texture.

Finally, season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. The amount of salt and pepper you need will depend on your personal preference, so make sure to taste your soup before serving.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious and creamy copycat Bennigan’s potato soup-lightened version recipe that your family and friends will love.

FAQ

Before we wrap up, let’s go over some frequently asked questions about this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version Recipe. I know that some common doubts and queries may arise while cooking this recipe, so I’m here to address them for you. Read on to clear up any confusion and cook your perfect soup!

How do you make potato soup less bland?

When it comes to potato soups, the high sodium content can be a turn off for those who are mindful of their salt intake. However, there is a way to add flavor without going overboard on salt. By incorporating yogurt or buttermilk into the soup, the natural creaminess of the potatoes is enhanced and the need for excessive salt is eliminated. This is a great solution for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional potato soups.

Why does my potato soup taste gritty?

Have you ever wondered why your potato soup turned out grainy? It could be due to the type of potato used. Russets, which are great for baking due to their fluffy texture, tend to create a mealy and grainy mouthfeel in soups.

How do you make bland potato soup better?

For this recipe, we’ll need some cooked and chopped bacon, sweet corn, shredded cheddar cheese (or any medium strong cheese), and either some cabbage or broccoli. These ingredients will come together to create a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. So, let’s get cooking!

How do you make potato soup less grainy?

As we prepare our soup, it’s important to keep an eye on the temperature of the pot. Once the soup reaches boiling point, we should reduce the heat slightly to avoid overcooking the potatoes. Boiling the soup at high temperatures can cause the potatoes to break down, resulting in a gritty texture. Our goal is to achieve a fork-tender consistency for the potatoes, while still maintaining a slight firmness.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Copycat Bennigan’s Potato Soup-Lightened Version Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic baked potato soup. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and the perfect blend of spices, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, by using a lightened version of the recipe, you can enjoy this delicious soup without any guilt.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a cold winter’s day, this soup is the perfect choice. So why not give it a try today? With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying a bowl of warm and comforting soup in no time.

Remember to experiment with different variations and substitutions to find the perfect combination for you. Whether you prefer bacon soup with scallions or a loaded potato soup with extra cheese, the possibilities are endless.

So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start making this delicious soup today! Your taste buds will thank you.

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