Why Make This Recipe
Ground turkey soup is a delicious and healthy choice for a satisfying meal. It’s packed with flavor, vitamins, and protein, making it not only tasty but also nourishing. This soup is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
Additionally, it is quite versatile, allowing you to customize it with other vegetables or spices you have on hand. Whether for a chilly day or a boost of comfort food, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Equipment Needed for Ground Turkey Soup
To prepare ground turkey soup, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. A large soup pot is paramount for cooking all the ingredients evenly. A sturdy spoon will help you stir the mixture without any hassle.
Having a cutting board and a sharp knife will make chopping your ingredients much easier. Measuring cups and spoons will ensure that you get the proportions just right. Finally, a ladle would be useful for serving the hot soup straight from the pot.
What You Need to Make Ground Turkey Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (14 ounce) can white beans (cannellini) (drained)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1.5 cups uncooked fusilli or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or more, to taste)
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Cook Ground Turkey Soup Step by Step
To start making ground turkey soup, warm up a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil, then add the finely chopped celery and the chopped onion. Sauté these ingredients for about 4-5 minutes until they become tender. If the onions start to brown a little, that’s perfectly fine as it adds flavor.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook them together for about 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance. After that, add in the ground turkey. Cook this mixture until the turkey is mostly cooked through and turns white, breaking it apart with your spoon. This should take roughly 4-5 minutes.
Once the turkey is almost done, it’s time to add in the drained white beans and sliced carrots. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and then increase the heat to high. Allow this mixture to come to a boil. When it starts boiling, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, you can incorporate the uncooked fusilli or rotini pasta into the soup. Cover the pot again, maintaining the lid slightly open, and let it cook for another 10 minutes. It’s helpful to stir the soup a couple of times during this process to ensure that the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, add the lemon juice. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste—adding more if you prefer a tangier flavor. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and cook for a couple more minutes until it wilts. Before serving, season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference. Keep in mind that this soup absorbs liquid quickly, so you might want to add more chicken broth or water when reheating leftovers.
How to Make Ground Turkey Soup
Making ground turkey soup is straightforward and doesn’t require any special skills. Start by preparing your ingredients. Chop the vegetables and measure out your liquids beforehand to streamline the cooking process.
Once your setup is complete, follow the steps for sautéing the aromatics and then cooking the turkey as mentioned earlier. Add in the beans, carrots, broth, water, and pasta sequentially, allowing ample simmering time for maximum flavor. Remember to keep tasting along the way to ensure the seasoning fits your palate perfectly.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Soup
Serving ground turkey soup can be a comforting and satisfying experience. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
A squeeze of lemon on top can also enhance the soup’s brightness. Enjoy it while it’s warm, and let the aroma fill the air. This soup can be a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with sides too.
What to Serve with Ground Turkey Soup
Ground turkey soup can stand alone as a hearty meal, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the dining experience. A warm slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread makes for a delicious combination, perfect for dipping.
You could also serve it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the flavors. For a comforting meal, a side of grilled cheese sandwiches is another great companion.
How to Store Ground Turkey Soup
Storing ground turkey soup is easy, allowing you to enjoy it later. If you have leftovers, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container.
You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. It’s best to portion it out into smaller containers for quicker reheating. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Tips to Make Ground Turkey Soup
To make the best ground turkey soup, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh herbs and vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor.
You can adjust the consistency to your liking by adding more or less broth while cooking. If you want a heartier soup, consider adding more protein or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
For a bit of a kick, adding crushed red pepper flakes can bring a nice heat level to the soup.
Variation
Ground turkey soup offers plenty of room for variations. You can swap out the ground turkey for ground chicken or even beef if you prefer.
Adding different types of beans, such as kidney or black beans, can change the flavor profile. Feel free to use other types of pasta or even skip it altogether for a lighter dish.
If you’re a fan of spice, you could incorporate diced jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra bite.
Best Time to Make Ground Turkey Soup
Ground turkey soup is perfect for any season, but it’s especially enjoyable during fall and winter months when the weather turns chilly. It’s warm, filling, and comforting, making it an ideal choice for cold days.
Additionally, weekends are a great time to whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. This soup is also perfect for meal prep, allowing you to have healthy lunches ready to go.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making ground turkey soup is simple, there are common mistakes to watch out for. One common error is not draining the beans properly, leading to excess liquid, which can make the soup too watery.
Not seasoning adequately during cooking can also result in bland flavors. Always be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Finally, overcooking the pasta can make it mushy. Always follow the cooking times closely and check for doneness according to your preference.
Nutritional Notes
Ground turkey is leaner than most meats, providing ample protein without excessive fat. Incorporating a variety of vegetables adds fiber and essential vitamins.
Using whole-grain pasta can enhance the health benefits and provide more nutrients. Always keep portion sizes in mind, particularly if you’re trying to maintain a balanced diet while indulging in comfort food.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, ground turkey soup can be made ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a convenient alternative. Just add them during the simmering step, adjusting the cooking times slightly if needed.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make ground turkey soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check that your broth also meets gluten-free standards.
Conclusion
Ground turkey soup is a versatile and healthy meal option that the whole family can enjoy. By following the straightforward steps provided, you can bring this comforting dish to your table efficiently and effectively.
Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences and enjoy the warmth it brings, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for lunch or dinner, it is undoubtedly a recipe that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
