There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of soup on a crisp day. It evokes memories of bustling kitchens, laughter echoing through the house, and the irresistible aroma of something delicious simmering on the stove. For many, soup isn’t just a dish—it’s a story. This Ground Turkey Soup tells its own tale of tradition, warmth, and nourishment.
This recipe harks back to a simpler time when ingredients were sourced from backyard gardens and every meal was prepared with care and love. It’s a modern adaptation of those rustic, hearty soups that fed families for generations. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner after a busy day or planning to cozy up with loved ones on a chilly evening, this soup has got you covered.
Picture this: you’re coming in from a long day, cheeks rosy from the cold, and the smell of this soup greets you at the door. It’s not just the combination of ground turkey, tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned broth—it’s the sense of home and comfort it brings. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and downright delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, hearty potatoes, and colorful vegetables, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl.
- Comforting Yet Light: Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this version is hearty yet light enough for a midweek meal.
- Customizable: Have some extra veggies in the fridge? Toss them in! Need to make it gluten-free? Swap the bread for a side salad.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches or easy weeknight dinners.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground turkey and simple vegetables are affordable staples that stretch into a generous meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Vegetables and Base:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup white onions, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
Protein and Seasoning:
- ½ lb ground turkey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Broth and Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Ground Turkey Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Start with Aromatics
Warm the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions turn translucent. This trio of vegetables, known as mirepoix, is the foundation of many comforting soups and stews, creating a depth of flavor that permeates the entire dish.
Pro Tip: Take your time with this step—letting the vegetables soften slowly releases their natural sweetness, setting the stage for a flavorful soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot and increase the heat slightly. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to prevent clumps. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the turkey is mostly cooked through, stir it together with the vegetables.
Tip for Extra Flavor: Browning the meat properly enhances the overall taste of the soup. Don’t rush this step; let the turkey develop a slight golden crust.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the tomato paste and mix thoroughly. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting it caramelize slightly. This step amplifies the richness of the soup, giving the broth a deep, savory quality.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Visual Cue: You’ll know the soup is ready to simmer when the broth looks rich and slightly thickened from the tomato paste.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Simmer
Toss in the diced potatoes and let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape while retaining enough heat to cook the potatoes evenly.
Kitchen Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. The potatoes will absorb the flavors of the broth, becoming tender and flavorful.
Step 6: Finish with Peas and Parsley
Stir in the frozen green peas and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the soup. Serve hot, garnished with an extra touch of parsley if you like, and pair with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra greens. They can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make It Your Own: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste—red pepper flakes for heat, or paprika for a smoky touch.
- Freezing Tips: This soup freezes well, but avoid freezing with the potatoes if you prefer a firmer texture. Cook fresh potatoes when reheating.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low-fat
Notes
- Add Some Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Thicken Naturally: Mash a few potatoes to create a creamier texture without adding cream.
- Choose Your Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control of salt, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to suit your preferences.
- Fresh or Frozen: Frozen peas work well, maintaining their sweetness and shape.
- Better the Next Day: This soup’s flavors deepen after sitting, making leftovers even more delicious.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or turnips to reduce carbs.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken is a leaner option, while beef adds a richer flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed for each protein.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace the turkey with your favorite plant-based protein, like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
A: Cut the potatoes into uniform, medium-sized pieces and simmer just until fork-tender.
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Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Soup is the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, nourishing, and incredibly versatile. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again, whether for a cozy family dinner or a quick, satisfying lunch. With its combination of wholesome ingredients and bold, comforting flavors, it’s more than a meal; it’s a memory waiting to be made. So grab a pot and get cooking—you’re going to love it!
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Hearty Ground Turkey Soup: A Hug in a Bowl
Description
There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of soup on a crisp day. It evokes memories of bustling kitchens, laughter echoing through the house, and the irresistible aroma of something delicious simmering on the stove. For many, soup isn’t just a dish—it’s a story. This Ground Turkey Soup tells its own tale of tradition, warmth, and nourishment.
This recipe harks back to a simpler time when ingredients were sourced from backyard gardens and every meal was prepared with care and love. It’s a modern adaptation of those rustic, hearty soups that fed families for generations. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner after a busy day or planning to cozy up with loved ones on a chilly evening, this soup has got you covered.
Picture this: you’re coming in from a long day, cheeks rosy from the cold, and the smell of this soup greets you at the door. It’s not just the combination of ground turkey, tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned broth—it’s the sense of home and comfort it brings. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and downright delicious.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Base:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup white onions, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
Protein and Seasoning:
- ½ lb ground turkey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Broth and Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Start with Aromatics
Warm the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions turn translucent. This trio of vegetables, known as mirepoix, is the foundation of many comforting soups and stews, creating a depth of flavor that permeates the entire dish.
Pro Tip: Take your time with this step—letting the vegetables soften slowly releases their natural sweetness, setting the stage for a flavorful soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot and increase the heat slightly. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to prevent clumps. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the turkey is mostly cooked through, stir it together with the vegetables.
Tip for Extra Flavor: Browning the meat properly enhances the overall taste of the soup. Don’t rush this step; let the turkey develop a slight golden crust.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the tomato paste and mix thoroughly. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting it caramelize slightly. This step amplifies the richness of the soup, giving the broth a deep, savory quality.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Visual Cue: You’ll know the soup is ready to simmer when the broth looks rich and slightly thickened from the tomato paste.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Simmer
Toss in the diced potatoes and let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape while retaining enough heat to cook the potatoes evenly.
Kitchen Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. The potatoes will absorb the flavors of the broth, becoming tender and flavorful.
Step 6: Finish with Peas and Parsley
Stir in the frozen green peas and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the soup. Serve hot, garnished with an extra touch of parsley if you like, and pair with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add Some Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Thicken Naturally: Mash a few potatoes to create a creamier texture without adding cream.
- Choose Your Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control of salt, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to suit your preferences.
- Fresh or Frozen: Frozen peas work well, maintaining their sweetness and shape.
- Better the Next Day: This soup’s flavors deepen after sitting, making leftovers even more delicious.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or turnips to reduce carbs.
