Chili's Baked Potato Soup: A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
When you’re enjoying a meal out, especially one that feels like ultimate comfort food, it's helpful to know what you're consuming. Chili's Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a perfect example. A warm, cheesy, and creamy soup topped with bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions, it's a fan favorite. But what does a serving of this dish truly entail from a nutritional perspective?
Calorie Count by Serving Size
The calorie content of Chili's baked potato soup depends entirely on the size you order. The standard options are a cup or a bowl, and the nutritional difference between them is significant.
- Cup: This smaller portion is often ordered as a side or a starter. Chili's official nutrition guide lists a cup of the Loaded Baked Potato Soup as 260 calories.
- Bowl: The larger, entree-sized bowl contains considerably more, doubling the calorie count to 520 calories.
Understanding these two options is the first step in managing your meal choices effectively. For those counting calories, opting for the cup size can make a big difference.
An Examination of Macronutrients
Calories don't tell the whole story. The macronutrient breakdown reveals why this soup is so rich and filling. The high fat and sodium levels are worth noting, especially for those with dietary concerns.
Here is a quick look at the macronutrients for a single cup of Chili's Loaded Baked Potato Soup:
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 930mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 9g
This breakdown shows that a significant portion of the calories comes from fat, particularly saturated fat. The high sodium content is also a crucial factor to consider when evaluating this soup's place in your diet. The protein content, while present, is moderate, and the fiber is quite low.
Making Comparisons: Chili's Soup vs. Other Soups
Comparing Chili's Loaded Baked Potato Soup to other popular restaurant soups can help provide context. Many restaurant-style soups can be high in sodium and fat, so it's wise to check the nutritional information for any option you are considering.
| Soup Item | Serving Size | Calories | Sodium | Saturated Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chili's Loaded Baked Potato Soup | Cup | 260 | 930mg | 11g |
| Chili's Chicken Enchilada Soup | Cup | 220 | 830mg | 4.5g |
| Chili's Terlingua Chili | Cup | 200 | 530mg | 4g |
This table highlights that while all options carry a notable amount of sodium, the Loaded Baked Potato Soup has a significantly higher saturated fat content compared to its chili and enchilada counterparts. This is likely due to the cream, cheese, and bacon used in its preparation.
Tips for a Healthier Choice
If you love the flavor of baked potato soup but want to make a healthier choice, you have a few options, even when dining at Chili's:
- Opt for the smaller size: The most straightforward way to reduce your intake is to choose the cup over the bowl. You can enjoy the flavor without committing to a full bowl's worth of calories and fat.
- Skip the toppings: Ask for the soup without the bacon, cheese, or sour cream. These are key contributors to the fat and calorie count. By removing them, you can significantly lighten up the dish.
- Pair with a salad: Instead of having the soup alone or with another heavy appetizer, pair the cup size with a side salad (with a light vinaigrette) for a more balanced meal. This increases your vegetable intake without adding excess calories.
- Make it at home: A homemade version allows for complete control over ingredients. You can use low-fat milk, a smaller amount of cheese, and turkey bacon to create a healthier, yet equally satisfying, soup. For a recipe comparison, The Buttery Fairytale offers a good copycat option.
Conclusion
Chili's baked potato soup is a delicious and indulgent treat, but it is not a low-calorie or low-fat menu item, especially in the bowl size. A cup contains 260 calories, while a bowl has 520 calories. The high levels of fat, saturated fat, and sodium are primarily due to the creamy base and rich toppings like cheese and bacon. By choosing the smaller portion or customizing your order, you can still enjoy this comfort food while being mindful of your nutritional intake.
