Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that’s also healthy and easy to make? Look no further! This slow cooker turkey soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend. It's packed with flavor, brimming with vegetables, and unbelievably easy to prepare thanks to the magic of your crock pot. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying homemade meal that’s better than takeout! This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined. It’s one of the best recipes for utilizing leftover turkey, making it a great way to minimize food waste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced (leftover turkey works perfectly!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo work well)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- 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. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Crock Pot Cooking:
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add the shredded turkey, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir everything together to combine.
Simmering to Perfection:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If using a high setting, check the soup halfway through and stir to prevent sticking.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy! This delicious and quick dinner idea is perfect for a cozy night in.
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker soup: Stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like 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 splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
- Different pasta shapes: Experiment with different types of pasta – small shells, orzo, or even broken spaghetti work well.
- Use bone-in turkey: For a richer broth, use bone-in turkey pieces instead of shredded meat. Just remember to remove the bones before serving.
This easy recipe is perfect for a delicious and healthy meal, showcasing the benefits of homemade cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Around 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
This comforting turkey soup is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a truly satisfying dish perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!