Easy Cream Of Turkey Soup Recipe

Cream of Turkey Soup – the name alone conjures up thoughts of cozy, comforting meals. It’s the perfect dish to bring a sense of warmth, especially during the cooler months. Whether you have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or just want to try something different for dinner, this soup is an excellent choice. Packed with tender pieces of turkey, creamy broth, and vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that’s both filling and nourishing.

And let’s be honest, there’s something about a good soup that just feels like a big hug for your soul. Cream of Turkey Soup, with its rich texture and flavors, hits all the right notes – savory, comforting, and downright delicious.

This recipe is an easy go-to for anyone looking to make a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the simple yet flavorful world of this turkey soup.

Easy Cream Of Turkey Soup Recipe

Looking for an uncomplicated, yet delicious recipe? This easy Cream of Turkey Soup requires only a handful of ingredients, and it comes together in no time. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will have you making a batch of comforting soup in no time.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to get started on your creamy turkey soup:

• Turkey: About 2 cups of cooked turkey, shredded or chopped. This is the star of the dish. Leftovers from your holiday feast work perfectly, but even deli turkey will do in a pinch.
• Chicken or Turkey Broth: 4 cups, to provide a flavorful base. You can even use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. The key to that rich, velvety texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like coconut milk.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter helps to sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the broth.
• Flour: 1/4 cup. This will be used to create a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it that satisfying, creamy consistency.
• Carrot: 1 medium-sized, diced. Adds a subtle sweetness and color.
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced. Celery provides a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
• Onion: 1 small onion, chopped. Onions are essential for building flavor in almost any soup.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Garlic is the secret ingredient that elevates the taste and depth of your soup.
• Thyme: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme. A must-have herb to bring a savory, earthy flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Essential for balancing all the flavors in the soup.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! The process is simple, and the results are mouth-watering. Follow these steps to create your creamy turkey soup:

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. This will give the soup a rich base flavor.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.

2. Make The Roux

   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir it in. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, which will get rid of any raw flour taste.
   • Gradually add the chicken or turkey broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.

3. Add The Cream And Turkey

   • Once the broth mixture has thickened a bit, pour in the heavy cream. Stir it in slowly and let the soup come to a simmer.
   • Add the turkey meat and stir everything together.

4. Season The Soup

   • Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese if you like.

Ingredient Insights

• Turkey: The beauty of using turkey in this soup is that it’s naturally lean, but packed with protein. It’s also a great way to repurpose leftovers, making this soup a zero-waste option. Whether you’re using turkey breast, thigh, or even dark meat, each adds its own flavor and texture to the dish.
• Heavy Cream: While it’s the ingredient that makes the soup indulgent and creamy, it also helps balance the savory flavors of the turkey and vegetables. It creates that luxurious texture that’s the hallmark of a great cream-based soup.
• Thyme: This herb has a subtle woodsy flavor with earthy notes that pair beautifully with poultry. Thyme is a classic addition to turkey-based dishes, and in this soup, it infuses the broth with layers of depth.
• Broth vs. Stock: The difference between broth and stock lies in how they’re made. Stock is made by simmering bones, while broth is typically made from meat. For a cream-based soup like this, either works well, but a turkey or chicken broth tends to provide a cleaner, more straightforward flavor.

Expert Tips

• Leftover Magic: This soup is perfect for using up leftover turkey. Be sure to shred the turkey into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. You can also use this recipe with leftover chicken.
• Simmer for Flavor: If you have the time, let your soup simmer on low for an extra 20-30 minutes to really allow the flavors to develop. The longer it simmers, the more depth it gains.
• Make it Lighter: For a lower-fat version, replace the heavy cream with a combination of milk and a bit of cornstarch to thicken. You’ll still get a creamy texture, but with fewer calories.
• Frozen Veggies: If you’re in a pinch and don’t have fresh veggies, you can use frozen peas, carrots, and corn. Just be sure to add them later in the cooking process so they don’t get mushy.

Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are a few variations you can try that will add exciting new flavors:

• Add Mushrooms: If you love mushrooms, slice some up and sauté them with the onions and garlic for an extra earthy, umami-packed flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It adds a surprising layer of flavor that balances out the creaminess.
• Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end for an extra rich, cheesy twist. You can also top your soup with a little sprinkle of cheese for garnish.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add other veggies like peas, green beans, or potatoes for a heartier soup.
• Herb Variation: Try swapping the thyme for rosemary or sage for a completely different flavor profile.

Final Words

Cream of Turkey Soup is not just a meal – it’s an experience. From the first spoonful, you get a wave of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket after a long day. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey or cooking it fresh, this soup has the power to turn simple ingredients into something magical. The depth of flavor from the broth, the richness from the cream, and the hearty turkey – it all comes together in one bowl.