Portobello Mushroom and Sweet Potato Soup

Name: Portobello Mushroom and Sweet Potato Soup
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons margarine; 1/4 onion, chopped; 2 large portobello mushroom caps, diced; 2 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth, divided; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced; 2 tablespoons bacon bits; 2 teaspoons garlic salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1/4 cup half-and-half; 4 ounces shredded Gouda cheese