Sitting down with a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening always feels like a hug for your soul. That’s why I’m excited to share my Creamy Turkey Soup with Spinach, a delightful way to turn leftover turkey into a hearty comfort food that nourishes both heart and belly. This recipe is not only a fantastic solution for transforming holiday leftovers into gourmet magic, but it also packs a punch of nutrients with tender vegetables and vibrant spinach. With its quick prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time, perfect for cozy dinners or busy weeknights. Are you ready to whip up this creamy masterpiece and rediscover the joy of homemade cooking? Let's dive in!
Why is This Turkey Soup Special?
Comforting Warmth: This creamy turkey soup with spinach envelops you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of tender turkey and fresh vegetables infuses every bite with delicious flavor, making your taste buds dance.
Quick and Easy: Designed for busy cooks, this recipe transforms leftover turkey into a gourmet dish in no time.
Nutritious Twist: Spinach adds a burst of color and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome choice.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with other veggies or proteins like chicken for a twist. For more hearty ideas, check out my recipes for Zuppa Toscana Soup or Chickpea Spinach Curry.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this soup for a family meal or a gathering, and watch it disappear!
Turkey Soup with Spinach Ingredients
• Transform your leftovers into a satisfying meal!
For the Soup Base
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture. Use parsnips for a different flavor profile.
- Celery – Provides crunch and aromatic flavor. No direct substitute, but you can omit it if necessary.
- Onion – Base for flavor; caramelizes beautifully. Shallots can be substituted for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Introduces fragrant depth. Fresh cloves bring more flavor than garlic powder.
For the Greens
- Spinach – Adds nutritional value and vibrant color. Kale works well as an alternative.
For the Protein
- Turkey – Main source of heartiness; any leftover cooked turkey is perfect. Can substitute with chicken if desired.
For the Creaminess
- Cream – Provides richness and a silky texture. For a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk can be used.
Optional Flavor Enhancers
- Herbs (like thyme or parsley) – Elevate the flavor profile. Add fresh for the brightest taste!
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
Embrace the comfort of homemade cooking with this Turkey Soup with Spinach recipe!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Soup with Spinach
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in diced carrots, celery, and onion. Cook these aromatic veggies for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious scents.
Step 2: Add Chicken Broth & Turkey
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, add in 2 to 3 cups of shredded turkey, stirring well to incorporate. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the turkey to heat through while infusing the broth with rich flavors.
Step 3: Incorporate Spinach
Stir in a generous handful of fresh spinach into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and brightens in color, adding vibrant green hues to the Turkey Soup with Spinach. This is where your comforting soup starts to take shape, becoming both nourishing and visually appealing.
Step 4: Add Cream
Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 1 cup of cream, letting it blend smoothly into your soup without bringing it to a boil. This creamy addition gives richness and depth to your Turkey Soup with Spinach. Gently heat the soup for another 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through and silky.
Step 5: Season & Serve
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Once seasoned, ladle the creamy turkey soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a truly comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
What to Serve with Creamy Turkey Soup with Spinach
Sitting down to enjoy a warm bowl of soup is just the beginning of a delightful meal experience; let's elevate it!
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Crusty Bread: The perfect dipper, crusty bread complements the creamy turkey soup, soaking up every delicious morsel.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, adding a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks offer an irresistible garlic flavor and are great for mopping up the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized veggies provide an earthy contrast to the creamy soup and enhance the meal’s nutrition.
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Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: Creamy and loaded with flavor, this mash adds an extra layer of heartiness beneath every spoonful of turkey soup.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp serves a sweet finish, the cinnamon and sugar enhancing the comfort food theme of the meal.
These pairings shine alongside your creamy turkey soup, turning a cozy bowl into a full-fledged dining experience. Enjoy the warmth each dish brings to your table!
Expert Tips for Turkey Soup with Spinach
- Don’t Rush Sautéing: Ensure the vegetables are tender before adding broth. Rushing this step can lead to an underdeveloped flavor in your Turkey Soup with Spinach.
- Gradual Cream Addition: Slowly stir in the cream over low heat to avoid curdling. Boiling the soup at this stage can ruin the smooth texture.
- Season at the End: Always adjust seasoning after adding cream, as flavors can change. Taste before adding additional salt or pepper.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley enhance the soup’s flavor. Get creative with herbs you enjoy!
- Leftover Versatility: Feel free to add other leftover vegetables or proteins. Variations can keep your soup exciting and minimize waste!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Turkey Soup with Spinach make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, celery, and onions) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days prior to cooking. The soup itself can be fully prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days as well. To maintain its creamy texture, it’s best to add the cream just before reheating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove, stirring in the cream until warmed through. With this prep, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Soup with Spinach
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the turkey soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to keep the creamy texture intact.
Avoiding Spoilage: If you notice any off-smells or changes in texture, it’s best to discard the soup. Enjoy this comforting turkey soup with spinach while it’s fresh!
Turkey Soup with Spinach Variations
Feel free to personalize this delicious recipe and make it your own with these fun and satisfying twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free option that adds a hint of tropical flavor.
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Protein Swap: Use leftover chicken or even ham in place of turkey for a different yet delightful taste. Each choice brings its own charm to the soup.
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Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers or green beans for an extra crunch and vibrant color. This is a great way to sneak in additional nutrients!
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Spicy Kick: Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level. Just a pinch can make your taste buds sing!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or basil at the end for a fragrant twist that can transform the flavor profile significantly. Let the fresh aroma burst forth as you serve!
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Grain Addition: Incorporate cooked rice, quinoa, or even pasta for added heartiness and texture, turning the soup into a more filling meal option.
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Seasonal Twist: Try adding butternut squash during the fall for a sweeter, seasonal variation that perfectly complements the creaminess of the soup.
For more comforting ideas, don’t miss out on my delicious Asparagus Soup Healthy or a delightful Spinach Pie Deliciously.
Creamy Turkey Soup with Spinach Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked turkey is ideal for this creamy turkey soup with spinach. Shredding or cubing the turkey works great, as it helps to meld the flavors into the soup. If you don't have leftovers, you can use rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken as a substitute.
How should I store leftovers of this turkey soup?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It's important to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to maintain its quality. You can reheat it gently on the stove. Just remember to stir occasionally to ensure even heating!
Can you freeze creamy turkey soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze the soup, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over low heat without boiling to preserve the creamy texture.
Why is my soup too thick or too thin?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered on low heat to thicken it slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth finish!
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Certainly! To make a dairy-free version of this creamy turkey soup with spinach, simply substitute the cream with a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or coconut cream. You can also use a dairy-free cream alternative available in stores. Just add it in the same way as you would regular cream for that rich, velvety texture.
Is this soup safe for pets?
While the turkey and vegetables in the soup are generally safe for dogs, it’s best to avoid any additions like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to pets. If you want to share some with your furry friend, make a plain version without these ingredients, ensuring they enjoy a safe treat!
Creamy Turkey Soup with Spinach
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in diced carrots, celery, and onion. Cook these aromatic veggies for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, add in 2 to 3 cups of shredded turkey, stirring well to incorporate. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in a generous handful of fresh spinach into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and brightens in color.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 1 cup of cream, letting it blend smoothly into your soup. Gently heat the soup for another 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
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