If you're looking for a comforting meal, look no further than this 1 cup (240 g) Loaded Potato & Bacon Soup. At 250 calories, it's a delicious and satisfying way to warm up on a chilly day.

Not only is this soup hearty and delicious, it's also packed with nutritional value. With potatoes, bacon, and creamy broth, this soup is a great source of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

In this article, we'll explore some tips for making and serving this soup, as well as some variations and health benefits to keep in mind.

Ingredients

To make this soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

To make this soup, follow these steps:

1. Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot and cook until soft.
3. Add chicken broth and potatoes, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
4. In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Add milk and cheese, and stir until melted.
5. Add cheese mixture to soup and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and extra cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

This soup packs a nutritional punch, with the following serving providing:

• calories: 250
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 860mg
• Potassium: 540mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Vitamin A: 10% DV
• Vitamin C: 25% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal in itself, but you can pair it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad for an even more satisfying meal. Some other serving suggestions include:

• Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Swiss, for a customizable twist on the classic recipe.
• Make it heartier by adding cooked chicken or sausage.
• Add some spice with a sprinkle of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove until hot.

Variations

This soup is incredibly versatile, and can be customized in a number of ways. Some variations to try include:

• Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Make it vegan by using vegetable broth and non-dairy milk and cheese.
• Add some crunch with chopped celery or bell peppers.
• Make it soupier with additional broth or milk.

Health Benefits

This soup is a great source of nutrients and can offer a number of health benefits, including:

• Potatoes are high in fiber and potassium, which can promote heart health and lower blood pressure.
• Bacon is a good source of protein, which can help build and repair tissues in the body.
• Cheese is a good source of calcium and other essential nutrients for bone health.
• Soup can be a comforting food that can help promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Comfort Food

This soup is the ultimate comfort food, with warm and creamy flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. You can make a big batch and freeze some for later, or serve it up to friends and family on a cozy night in.

Soup Lovers

For soup lovers, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it's easy to make and can be made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. So next time you're in the mood for a warm and comforting meal, give this Loaded Potato & Bacon Soup a try!

Quick Lunch

With just a few simple ingredients, this soup makes a quick and easy lunch option that you can whip up in minutes. Simply store any leftovers and reheat as needed for a satisfying and delicious meal.