Turkey Vegetable Soup Recipe

This hearty turkey vegetable soup is the perfect way to transform leftover turkey into a wholesome, comforting meal. Packed with savory veggies and flavorful broth, it’s an easy one-pot wonder that’ll warm you right up!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Salt, pepper, and thyme, to taste (about 1/2 tsp each is a good start)

Directions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
   • Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, mince the garlic, and cube the potatoes.
   • Shred or cube your leftover turkey, keeping it ready for adding later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
   • Add the sliced carrots and celery, stirring for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften. This sautéing step helps bring out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup.
3. Build the Soup Base:
   • Add the shredded turkey to the pot, stirring it with the vegetables to combine.
   • Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the broth. Give everything a good stir.
   • Add the cubed potatoes, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme, adjusting the amounts based on your preference.
4. Simmer to Perfection:
   • Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   • Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Final Touches and Serve:
   • Taste the soup, adjusting salt, pepper, and thyme as needed. For a touch of extra flavor, you can also add a bay leaf while simmering, removing it before serving.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve piping hot with crusty bread or a side of fresh rolls. Enjoy!

Here are some helpful tips to make this Turkey Vegetable Soup even better:

1. Boost the Broth: If your broth is a bit mild, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of bouillon for extra depth.
2. Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can enhance flavor. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking, or sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
3. Add Texture with Beans: If you’d like a heartier soup, add a can of beans (like cannellini or chickpeas). They’ll add protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: To keep the soup balanced, ensure there’s enough liquid to cover the ingredients comfortably. Add a bit more broth or water if it looks too thick as it simmers.
5. Flavor Build with a Bay Leaf: Adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers gives a subtle, earthy flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!
6. Perfect Potatoes: For added richness, try using Yukon Gold potatoes, as they hold up well in soups and offer a creamier texture.
7. Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, add a splash of cream or half-and-half in the last few minutes of cooking. This will give it a richer, more indulgent texture without overpowering the other flavors.

8. Make it a Meal: Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream for a soup that feels even more satisfying.

Popular Questions & Answers

1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
   Yes! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can easily be substituted. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking since they’re already cooked.
2. What can I do with leftover soup?
   Leftover turkey vegetable soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
3. Can I use raw turkey in this soup?
   While this recipe is designed for cooked turkey, you can use raw turkey by sautéing it first with the onions and garlic until browned, then adding the remaining ingredients and simmering until the turkey is fully cooked.
4. What type of broth is best for this soup?
   Chicken or turkey broth works best for enhancing the turkey flavor, but vegetable broth can be used if you prefer a lighter taste or want a vegetarian option.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
   For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños when you add the other vegetables.
6. Is this soup healthy?
   Yes! This turkey vegetable soup is packed with protein from the turkey and loaded with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, making it a nutritious and wholesome meal.
7. Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?
   Absolutely! You can add small pasta shapes or cooked rice towards the end of cooking. If using pasta, be sure to check the cooking time on the package and adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
8. What can I substitute for potatoes?
   If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips, which will provide a similar texture.
9. How can I thicken the soup?
   To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot, or add a slurry made of cornstarch mixed with water. Stir it in and let it simmer until thickened.

10. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
    Yes! Simply sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the veggies are tender.