When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing hits the spot quite like crispy, cheesy goodness. I remember the first time I tasted those indulgent Blue Cheese Chips at Bennigan’s—every bite was a blend of crunch and creaminess that left me wanting more. Today, I’m excited to bring that experience to your kitchen with this easy Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips recipe!
In just 12 minutes, you can whip up this delightful appetizer, featuring kettle chips draped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce and crowned with bold blue cheese crumbles and fresh green onions. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a cozy dinner, or simply satisfying a late-night snack attack, these chips promise to deliver that same crave-worthy flavor. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this cheesy haven that’s sure to wow your family and friends!
Why will you love Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips?
Quick and Easy: In just 12 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering appetizer that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. Crispy Texture: The kettle chips provide the perfect crunch to complement the rich, creamy cheese sauce. Flavor Explosion: With tangy blue cheese and fresh green onions, each bite is a delightful medley of flavors. Versatile Dish: Ideal for game nights, parties, or cozy evenings, this snack is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, if you’re looking for more comfort food, check out our other delicious recipes to try!
Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips Ingredients
For the Chips
- Kettle Potato Chips – These thicker chips hold up beautifully under toppings, ensuring you enjoy every bite without a soggy mess.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Butter – This rich ingredient creates a velvety texture, enhancing the flavor of your cheese sauce.
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce to a creamy consistency; if gluten isn’t a concern, feel free to use flour instead.
- Milk – Whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but you can use lower-fat milk for a lighter version.
- Garlic Powder – A small dash adds depth and enhances the overall taste of your cheese sauce.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and elevating the flavors of the sauce.
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Freshly grated cheese results in smooth melting; avoid pre-shredded varieties for the best results.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles – These pack a tangy punch; choose them based on how bold you want the flavor.
- Green Onions – Finely sliced for a mild onion flavor and as a fresh garnish, lifting the dish visually and taste-wise.
This Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips recipe is not just an appetizer; it’s a joyful experience, perfect for sharing and savouring with loved ones!
How to Make Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips
-
Melt Butter: In a small pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring it gently until completely melted and bubbling.
-
Whisk in Cornstarch: Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch while stirring continuously to create a smooth paste, cooking it for about 1 minute to remove raw flavor.
-
Add Milk: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of whole milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
-
Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese, whisking until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Assemble Chips: Place kettle chips on a serving plate, generously pouring the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage.
-
Garnish: Sprinkle a handful of blue cheese crumbles and sliced green onions over the cheesy chips. Serve immediately for the best taste!
Optional: Drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips
• Use Block Cheese: Freshly grated block cheese melts beautifully, while pre-shredded varieties might clump due to anti-caking agents.
• Keep Sauce Warm: If making ahead, use a slow cooker to keep your cheese sauce warm. Serve chips on the side to avoid sogginess.
• Adjust Spiciness: Want a kick? Add hot sauce or cayenne to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Mind the Milk: Using whole milk ensures a rich and creamy cheese sauce; opting for lower fat can result in a thinner consistency.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the blue cheese crumbles and green onions—these elevate the flavor and presentation of your Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips!
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips
-
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed immediately, but if needed, you can keep leftover chips at room temperature for up to 2 hours before they become soggy.
-
Fridge: Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well.
-
Freezer: The cheese sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing chips as they will lose their crispiness.
-
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the cheese sauce gently on low heat and serve with fresh kettle chips to enjoy that delightful texture again!
Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips Variations
Feel free to customize these mouthwatering chips to suit your cravings and dietary needs!
-
Cheese Swap: Replace Monterey Jack with Cheddar for a sharper flavor, or try Pepper Jack if you love a spicy kick! The cheese choice can completely transform the dish’s character.
-
Bacony Goodness: Add crumbled bacon to the toppings for a delicious smoky crunch. The savory flavor of bacon harmonizes beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
-
Spicy Delight: Diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the heat level. This is perfect for those who crave a little extra spice with their fabulous flavors.
-
Vegetable Boost: Toss on some spinach or roasted bell peppers for added color and nutrition. These veggies not only enhance the taste but also add a lovely freshness to the dish.
-
Creamy Avocado: Top with slices of creamy avocado right before serving for a rich and buttery texture. It contrasts wonderfully with the tangy blue cheese.
-
Herbaceous Twist: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of green onions. This twist brings a vibrant freshness, making each bite pop with flavor.
-
Nutty Flavor: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and depth. Their nutty flavor can add a wonderful dimension to this cheesy delight.
-
Gluten-Free Option: If you need to go gluten-free, just swap regular kettle chips for gluten-free varieties. It’s a simple switch that keeps the indulgence intact without compromising on taste!
What to Serve with Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips?
Looking to create a complete meal around those indulgent blue cheese chips?
-
Crispy Chicken Wings: The savory crunch of wings pairs perfectly with the rich cheese sauce, making it a perfect game day duo.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the chips, it adds a bright crunch that enhances every bite.
-
Roasted Veggies: Colorful, roasted vegetables provide a hearty contrast to the chips, introducing earthy flavors that make it feel like more of a meal.
-
Homemade Salsa: A zesty salsa brings brightness and acidity to the plate, cutting through the creaminess and making it utterly refreshing.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks can soak up any extra cheese sauce, giving an irresistible aspect to your appetizer spread.
-
Iced Lemonade: A chilled, tangy lemonade is the perfect drink pairing to cleanse your palate between bites of rich, cheesy chips.
Don’t forget dessert—an airy cheesecake can offer a sweet finish, balancing the salty and savory flavors of this delightful appetizer!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cheese sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, then allow the cheese sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, whisking in a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Serve it hot over freshly prepared kettle chips for an irresistible appetizer that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep while indulging in this comfort food favorite!
Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips Recipe FAQs
What type of kettle chips should I use?
Absolutely! Look for thick, sturdy kettle potato chips, as they can handle the weight of the toppings without going soggy. I recommend brands that tout their crunchiness to ensure they provide the perfect bite against the rich cheese sauce.
How should I store leftover cheese sauce?
To keep your cheese sauce fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to maintain that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze the cheese sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese sauce for up to 2 months! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on low heat. You may need to whisk in a little milk to bring back the creaminess.
What should I do if my cheese sauce isn’t thickening?
If your cheese sauce isn’t thickening, try adding a bit more cornstarch (mixed with a little cold milk) to avoid clumping. Ensure you allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes after adding the milk to help it reach the right consistency. Remember, patience is key!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips recipe is vegetarian and can be made gluten-free by substituting cornstarch for flour. If serving to guests with allergies, check the labels of the ingredients for potential allergens, particularly the cheese and chips.
How long can I keep leftover chips?
It’s best to enjoy your chips fresh, as they become soggy over time. However, if you need to save them, store leftover chips at room temperature in a sealed bag for up to 2 hours. Beyond that, they will lose their signature crunch!
Delicious Copycat Bennigan’s Blue Cheese Chips in 12 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring it gently until completely melted and bubbling.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch while stirring continuously to create a smooth paste, cooking it for about 1 minute to remove raw flavor.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of whole milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese, whisking until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place kettle chips on a serving plate, generously pouring the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle a handful of blue cheese crumbles and sliced green onions over the cheesy chips. Serve immediately for the best taste!