Ground Turkey Soup Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a cozy, hearty, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any season? Ground Turkey Soup is a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and full of healthy ingredients. Whether you’re trying to eat leaner or simply craving a delicious bowl of soup, this ground turkey soup hits all the right notes. It’s loaded with tender ground turkey, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic herbs, simmered together in a savory broth that’s both satisfying and light.

This recipe is versatile, so you can customize it to your taste preferences. The best part is that it comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a family gathering. Whether served with a slice of crusty bread or paired with a fresh salad, this soup is sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious and nutritious soup that’s both comforting and easy to whip up!

Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey Soup

• Lean Protein: Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein. It’s lower in fat compared to other meats, like beef or pork, but still incredibly flavorful. This soup allows you to enjoy a hearty, filling meal without all the extra calories.
• Packed with Vegetables: This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s packed with a variety of vegetables, including carrots, celery, onions, and spinach, which provide plenty of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Quick and Easy: With a cooking time of about 30 minutes, this ground turkey soup comes together quickly, making it an ideal meal for busy days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients in this soup to suit your taste. Whether you want to add more vegetables, use a different broth, or make it spicier, this recipe is highly flexible and can be tailored to your preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for several days and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. You can even freeze leftovers for a convenient, ready-to-eat meal when you need it most.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 5-6g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Ground Turkey Soup:

• 1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean or extra-lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or another cooking oil of choice)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (or kale)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 cup cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta (for added heartiness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the carrots, chop the celery, and dice the zucchini into small, even pieces. Chop the spinach or kale, and set all of the vegetables aside. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker once you start.

2. Cook the Ground Turkey

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground turkey. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook the turkey for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure the turkey cooks evenly.

3. Add the Aromatics

Once the turkey is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step builds the base flavors of your soup.

4. Add the Vegetables

Next, add the diced carrots, celery, and zucchini to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes. This will allow the vegetables to soften a little and absorb the flavors from the turkey and aromatics. If you like your vegetables on the firmer side, you can reduce this cooking time.

5. Add the Broth and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are slightly softened, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them to the pot at this point. Stir well to combine. Add the dried thyme, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. If you want to make your soup spicier, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder at this stage.

6. Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

7. Add the Greens

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Let the greens wilt into the soup for an additional 2-3 minutes. They will add a burst of color and nutrients to the soup. If you’re adding cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta, now is the time to stir it in as well. This will make the soup even heartier and more filling.

8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it needs more salt, pepper, or herbs, add them to your liking. If you like a bit more acidity, you can squeeze in some lemon juice or a splash of vinegar.

9. Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. You can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor, but that’s optional. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Tips for Perfect Ground Turkey Soup

• Use Lean Ground Turkey: For a healthier version of this soup, use lean or extra-lean ground turkey. It will give the soup the right amount of protein without too much fat. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use regular ground turkey or add a small amount of olive oil to the turkey while cooking.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables based on what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, green beans, peas, and bell peppers all make great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times for denser vegetables like sweet potatoes.
• Customize the Broth: If you prefer a richer soup, use a combination of chicken broth and a bit of cream or coconut milk. For a lighter version, you can use all vegetable broth. Adjust the broth to suit your dietary preferences or what you have available.
• Make it Spicy: If you like your soup with a little heat, add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even some hot sauce to the mix. You can adjust the spice level to your taste.
• Add Beans for Extra Protein: If you’re looking to boost the protein content further, you can add a can of white beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas to the soup. Just be sure to drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the pot.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes wonderfully. After it has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove.

Variations of Ground Turkey Soup

• Ground Chicken Soup: If you prefer chicken, you can easily substitute ground chicken for the turkey. It will taste just as delicious, and the texture will be very similar.
• Spicy Ground Turkey Soup: For a spicier version, add diced green chilies, a bit of hot sauce, or even chili powder. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground turkey to bring an extra kick.
• Low-Carb Ground Turkey Soup: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, skip the rice, quinoa, or pasta, and opt for cauliflower rice instead. This will keep the soup low-carb while still providing a similar texture.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian or vegan version, replace the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or crumbled tempeh. You can also add more vegetables or beans to increase the protein content.

Storage and Shelf Life

Ground Turkey Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. If freezing, make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Ground Turkey Soup

This ground turkey soup is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with several sides to make it a more complete meal:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup. You can add some cheese or nuts to the salad for extra texture.
• Garlic Bread: For an extra treat, serve the soup with some homemade or store-bought garlic bread. The savory bread will pair perfectly with the comforting soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower, adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the meal even more satisfying.

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Conclusion

Ground Turkey Soup is the perfect dish when you’re craving something warm, hearty, and healthy. It’s packed with lean protein, nutritious vegetables, and comforting flavors, making it a great choice for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just looking for a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to impress. With plenty of room for customization, it’s easy to make this soup your own and adjust it to suit your tastes. So, gather your ingredients, grab a big pot, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious, satisfying soup tonight!