This Turkey Potato Soup is warm, hearty, and super comforting! Made with tender turkey pieces and creamy potatoes, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
On chilly days, this soup hits the spot! I love making extra so I can enjoy it for lunch—instant comfort food that’s so easy to reheat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter or Olive Oil: I prefer using butter for its rich flavor, but olive oil works too for a lighter taste. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil!
Onion: A medium onion adds the right amount of sweetness. If you have leeks on hand, they can be a great substitute for a milder flavor.
Celery and Carrots: These veggies are staples in many soups. If you can’t find celery, diced bell peppers can add a nice crunch instead. You could use frozen mixed veggies if you’re short on time!
Potatoes: I love using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, sweet potatoes work great too!
Cooked Turkey: Leftover turkey is fantastic in this soup! If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken is a perfect and tasty substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Tender?
Cooking your vegetables properly is key to a delicious soup. Start with a good sauté to build flavor. Here’s how:
- Heat the pot on medium, then add your fat (butter or oil).
- Add onion, celery, and carrots and stir often. Cooking for about 5-7 minutes allows them to soften without burning.
- Only add the garlic for the last minute of sautéing to keep its flavor fresh and not bitter.
This technique ensures your veggies are nice and tender while keeping their brightness. Enjoy the comforting taste of your turkey potato soup, and feel free to adjust the veggies as you like!
Turkey Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk or cream (optional, for creamier texture)
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Turkey Potato Soup will take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion, diced celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté these vegetables together until they become tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step will create a lovely flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant—this is the moment the kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the cubed potatoes, dried thyme, dried parsley, and optional basil. Pour in the chicken or turkey broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Allow it to simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Turkey:
Once your potatoes are tender, stir in the shredded or chopped cooked turkey. Let it cook for another 5 minutes—this is when all those flavors really come together!
5. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your soup and add salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
6. Make It Creamy (Optional):
If you want a creamier soup, this is where you can add the milk or cream. Stir it in gently and heat through without bringing it to a boil.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once your soup is done, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley—this adds a lovely touch of color and flavor!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your warm Turkey Potato Soup with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for the perfect comforting meal. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this soup. Just shred or chop your cooked turkey and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the turkey broth with vegetable broth and use diced tofu or chickpeas instead of turkey. You can also load up on more vegetables for added texture and taste!
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens up.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
