Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that’s also healthy and easy to make? Look no further than this delicious crock pot turkey soup recipe! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. It's a fantastic way to use leftover turkey, making it an economical and delicious option. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, water, shredded turkey, wild rice, diced tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the rice is cooked through and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the soup is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Turkey Soup:
- Use leftover turkey: This recipe is a fantastic way to transform leftover roasted turkey into a hearty and flavorful soup.
- Don't overcook the rice: Wild rice can become mushy if overcooked. Start checking for doneness around the 6-hour mark on low.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as chopped potatoes, green beans, or corn.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamier texture.
Variations:
- Chicken Soup: Substitute cooked chicken for the turkey.
- Vegetarian Soup: Omit the turkey and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Different Grains: Substitute brown rice or barley for the wild rice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This crock pot turkey soup recipe is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. It's a versatile recipe that you can easily customize to your liking. Enjoy!