Description
This heartwarming ground turkey soup is perfect for cozy nights, combining lean turkey with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs in a savory broth. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean and flavorful, makes for a hearty base)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (chopped, adds a sweet, savory depth)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced, infuses the soup with aromatic warmth)
- 2 medium carrots (diced, contribute color and natural sweetness)
- 2 stalks celery (diced, adds crunch and a fresh taste)
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing your veggies to golden perfection)
- 6 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium for better control over the flavor)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (adds richness; try fire-roasted for a smoky twist)
Herbs, Spices & Seasoning
- 2 bay leaves (enhances flavor; remember to remove them before serving!)
- 1 tsp thyme (dried or 1 tablespoon fresh, fragrant herb for a classic taste)
- Salt (to taste, essential for balancing flavors; start with 1 teaspoon)
- Pepper (to taste, freshly cracked for the best flavor)
Instructions
- Sauté the onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and vegetables: Toss in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Stir them together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Cook the ground turkey: Push the veggies to the side and add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add liquids and combine: Combine everything in the pot, then pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
- Season and simmer: Add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes.
- Final touches: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- To make it gluten free, ensure all canned goods and broth are gluten free certified.
