Easy Turkey and Vegetable Soup

Name: Easy Turkey and Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups spinach leaves; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

I love making this Easy Turkey and Vegetable Soup on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. It's packed with delightful flavors and a variety of healthy veggies that come together effortlessly. Each time I prepare this soup, I can’t help but enjoy the aroma that fills my kitchen, making it a hit not just with my family but also with friends. This recipe is a breeze to whip up, and it’s amazing how quickly it transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:26:18.799Z

Whenever I make this Easy Turkey and Vegetable Soup, I love experimenting with different vegetables depending on what I have on hand. The combination of ground turkey and fresh veggies creates a light yet hearty dish, perfect for any day of the week. I usually use carrots, celery, and spinach, but feel free to throw in whatever you like!

One of my favorite tips is to add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving to elevate the soup's flavor. The simple addition of herbs brightens the dish and fills it with a lovely freshness that makes each bowl enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A comforting bowl of deliciousness that's ready in no time
Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables for a wholesome meal
Versatile recipe that allows you to use whatever veggies you have on hand

Choosing the Right Vegetables

One of the best aspects of this Easy Turkey and Vegetable Soup is its versatility when it comes to vegetables. While the recipe calls for carrots and celery, you can easily substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or green beans depending on what you have available. Just ensure you cut them into even-sized pieces to promote even cooking. For instance, if using sweet potatoes, dice them small enough to cook in about the same time as the turkey to avoid any crunchy surprises.

Remember that the freshness of your vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor of the soup. Look for vibrant, firm veggies at the market, and avoid those that feel mushy or have dark spots. Fresh herbs, particularly if you can find thyme or even rosemary, can elevate the broth's profile even more, helping to create layers of flavor that make each bowl memorable.

Perfecting the Turkey

When browning the ground turkey, take care not to overcrowd the pan, as this can trap steam and result in a less desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary; this ensures it browns nicely and develops that rich flavor that contributes to the overall stock. I’ll often break it up gently with a wooden spoon into smaller chunks, allowing for more surface area to brown while keeping some structural integrity in the meat.

If you prefer a leaner option or want to cut down on cooking time, consider using turkey breast instead of ground turkey. Just note that it may require additional seasoning since it can be less flavorful. If you opt for turkey breast, cube it and add it to the soup after the veggies have softened instead of browning it first.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This soup stores beautifully! After it cools, transfer it to an airtight container and it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; it will keep well for about three months. Just remember to avoid freezing the spinach, as it tends to lose its texture when thawed. Instead, add fresh spinach when reheating the soup to keep that vibrant green color and fresh taste.

Serving this soup can be quite flexible as well. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a light salad for a delightful meal. You could also top it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs right before serving for an added touch of flavor. Feel free to adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth if you prefer a soupier consistency.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb ground turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups spinach leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, for about 5-7 minutes.

Add Broth and Herbs

Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish with Greens

Stir in the spinach leaves just before serving, allowing them to wilt into the soup. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot and enjoy with some crusty bread for a fulfilling meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.

Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Needs

For those watching their carbohydrate intake, consider replacing some of the vegetables with low-carb options like cauliflower or broccoli. These substitutions not only help keep the soup light but also contribute essential nutrients. With the right seasoning adjustments, they can blend seamlessly into the soup's flavor profile.

If you’re aiming for a gluten-free version, just ensure that the chicken broth you use doesn’t contain any additives or preservatives that might contain gluten. Homemade broth is an excellent choice and can be a flavorful base for the soup.

Flavor Boosting Techniques

To deepen the flavor of your soup, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the broth. This small addition can enhance the broth's complexity and offers a subtle richness that pairs well with the turkey.

Simmering the soup longer than the instructed time will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If time permits, let it go for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Just be sure to check on your vegetables to make sure they're cooked to your liking!

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

If you're cooking for a larger group, this recipe can be scaled easily. Simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same proportions. Using a larger pot will help manage the increased volume, and be sure to stir more frequently to prevent any sticking at the bottom.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, consider reducing the recipe by half. Leftovers can freeze well, but if you'd rather not have them, this method allows you to enjoy the soup fresh, maintaining quality and flavor without waste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just skip the browning step and add the leftover turkey at the same time as the broth.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.

→ Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.

→ How long will it last in the fridge?

The soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.