This is the first time I’m sharing my Ground Turkey Soup recipe, and I’m really excited about it! I really wanted to create something healthy, comforting, and easy to make for busy weeknights.

This soup is packed with lean protein from the turkey and loaded with vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

I did my best to make this soup simple yet flavorful, and I think you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. I use ground turkey, carrots, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes to make a delicious and hearty soup.

I used to serve this Ground Turkey Soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, and it’s always been a hit. The broth is light yet flavorful, with the turkey adding a rich taste while the vegetables bring sweetness and texture.

The best part is that you can easily customize the soup by adding extra vegetables or grains like rice or pasta if you prefer a heartier meal.

What is Ground Turkey Soup?

Ground Turkey Soup is a hearty and comforting soup made with lean ground turkey and a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, and zucchini. The turkey adds protein and a savory flavor, while the vegetables make it nutritious and satisfying. The broth is typically made with chicken or vegetable broth, and the soup is seasoned with herbs like thyme and oregano. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a light yet filling meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven – For cooking the soup and simmering the ingredients together.
2. Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping vegetables like onions, carrots, and zucchini.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the ingredients while they cook.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups – To measure the herbs, broth, and any other seasonings.
5. Ladle – For serving the soup once it’s ready.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to make Ground Turkey Soup

Step 1:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the turkey from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3:

Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4:

Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5:

Return the cooked ground turkey to the pot. If desired, add frozen peas and cooked pasta or rice. Stir everything together and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6:

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making Ground Turkey Soup:

• Lean ground turkey works best to keep the soup light while still providing plenty of protein. You can also use ground chicken if you prefer.
• Feel free to swap out the zucchini for other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or kale for variety.
• To make the soup more filling, add cooked pasta, quinoa, or rice in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño if you like a little heat in your soup.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added towards the end of cooking to enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Allow the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together and intensify.
• Keep the vegetables tender but not mushy by adding them at the right time. They should hold their shape but still be soft and flavorful.
• Always taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper before serving, as the flavors can vary depending on the broth used.

What to Eat with Ground Turkey Soup?

For serving, I like to pair Ground Turkey Soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the broth and helps make the meal feel more complete.

My favorite way to enjoy it is with a light, refreshing salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the savory soup.

If you want something heartier, a side of roasted vegetables works great. Roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts can complement the lightness of the soup and add an extra layer of flavor.

How to Store Leftovers?

Once you’ve enjoyed your Ground Turkey Soup, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it cools to room temperature before storing.

To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if needed to loosen up the soup. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

FAQ

• Can I freeze this soup?
  Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
  Absolutely! Ground beef can be used instead of turkey for a richer flavor, though it will be slightly higher in fat.
• What can I add to make it more filling?
  Add grains like rice, quinoa, or pasta to make the soup more hearty and filling.
• Can I make this soup dairy-free?
  Yes, this soup is naturally dairy-free. If you prefer a creamier version, you can add coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
• Can I make this in a slow cooker?
  Yes, you can cook the soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Can I add more spices to this soup?
  Yes, you can experiment with adding spices like cumin, paprika, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Can I add beans to the soup?
  Yes, beans such as kidney beans, white beans, or chickpeas can be added for extra protein and fiber.
• Is this soup good for meal prep?
  Yes, this soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep. It’s great for lunch or dinner during the week.
• Can I use canned vegetables?
  Yes, you can use canned vegetables, but fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and texture.
• Can I make this soup in advance?
  Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Soup is the perfect option for a healthy, filling, and easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this soup is a winner. It’s packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, making it a delicious choice for any occasion. Try it out today, and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup in no time!

Ground Turkey Soup

Recipe by Food by AyakaCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

This Ground Turkey Soup is a light, healthy, and flavorful meal. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or grains.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 zucchini, chopped

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

• 1 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the turkey from the pot and set it aside.
• In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Return the cooked ground turkey to the pot. If desired, add frozen peas and cooked pasta or rice. Stir everything together and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.