This creamy turkey wild rice soup is cozy and filling. With tender turkey, hearty wild rice, and veggies swimming in a rich, creamy broth, it’s perfect for any chilly day!
I love how this soup warms you up from the inside out. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover turkey—no waste here! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to the soup. You can use olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free option; it’ll change the flavor slightly but still taste great.
Wild Rice: The wild rice blend gives this soup a nutty flavor and chewy texture. If you can’t find wild rice, brown rice or even quinoa can work, though they may change the cooking times.
Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey is perfect here. If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken works just as well. Even canned chicken can be a time-saver!
Mushrooms: I like using cremini or button mushrooms, but feel free to swap in your favorites like shiitake or portobello for more flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re making it dairy-free, try full-fat coconut milk for creaminess.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Thick Enough?
Thickening the soup is straightforward! The combination of heavy cream and flour creates a creamy texture, but the timing is essential.
- After adding the cream and flour mixture, stir regularly to prevent lumps.
- If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer for a few extra minutes, but don’t let it boil to avoid separation.
- For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch or tapioca flour mixed with water instead of all-purpose flour.
These tips will help you achieve the right consistency and ensure your soup is as comforting as can be! Enjoy your creamy turkey wild rice soup!
How to Make Creamy Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 1 cup wild rice blend (uncooked)
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 50 minutes to cook, resulting in a total time of about 1 hour and 5 minutes. It’s a great recipe for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced celery, diced carrots, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté these vegetables until they are tender and the mushrooms have released their moisture. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the vegetables are tender, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until it becomes fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma to your soup!
3. Stir in Broth:
Pour in the turkey or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
4. Cook the Wild Rice:
Add the uncooked wild rice blend to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered until the rice is tender. This usually takes about 45 minutes, but it’s good to check the package for specific cooking times.
5. Add Turkey and Thyme:
Once the wild rice is tender, stir in the cooked turkey and thyme. Let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes to warm the turkey through.
6. Make it Creamy:
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup to make it rich and creamy.
7. Simmer to Thicken:
Continue to simmer the soup, stirring frequently, until it thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to let it boil as this can curdle the cream.
8. Season:
Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. It’s delicious with crusty bread or crackers on the side!
This creamy turkey wild rice soup is comforting, hearty, and full of flavor—perfect for any chilly day! Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey in This Soup?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using leftover turkey. Just shred or dice your cooked turkey and add it when the rice is tender. It’s a great way to minimize waste!
What Can I Substitute for Wild Rice?
If you don’t have wild rice, you can use brown rice or quinoa instead. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary—check package instructions for guidance.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the soup up to the point of adding cream, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove and stir in the cream to keep it fresh and creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up!