There’s something truly comforting about a big pot of Ground Turkey Soup simmering away on the stove — the kind of meal that makes your whole kitchen smell like home. This recipe was born on one of those chaotic weeknights when everyone was hungry yesterday, and I needed something quick, healthy, and filling.
As a Texas mama of three, I’ve learned that soups like this one are weeknight gold — simple ingredients, minimal effort, and full of flavor. Ground turkey gives you that rich, savory taste without the heaviness of red meat, and the colorful veggies make every spoonful a little celebration of fresh goodness.
So if you’re craving something nourishing that won’t have you babysitting the stove all evening — this Ground Turkey Soup is your new best friend.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Soup
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes — no fuss, no fancy equipment.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Light, protein-packed, and filled with vibrant veggies.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Family-Approved: Even picky eaters go for seconds!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day.
If you loved my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup or my cozy White Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili, this one deserves a spot on your regular rotation too.
What Does Ground Turkey Soup Taste Like?
Think of it as the best parts of chicken soup — but heartier. The ground turkey gives a satisfying richness, while the veggies and herbs balance it out with bright, savory notes. The thyme and oregano add that nostalgic “Sunday dinner” aroma, and if you add a pinch of red pepper flakes, it’ll warm you right down to your toes.
It’s that just right kind of comfort — cozy without being heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ground Turkey Soup
The beauty of Ground Turkey Soup is how simple yet satisfying it is — a true pantry-friendly comfort meal that doesn’t demand a trip to the specialty store. Every ingredient has a purpose: flavor, color, and nutrition working in harmony. This soup is light enough for lunch but hearty enough to be dinner all on its own.
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey: The heart of our soup! Ground turkey keeps things light while still giving that savory, comforting flavor we crave in a bowl of soup. I recommend using 93% lean — it has just enough fat to create depth without feeling greasy. (If you loved the flavor balance in my Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake, this one will hit the same notes — just in a cozier, spoonable form.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the turkey and softening the veggies. Olive oil adds a mild fruitiness that complements the earthy herbs and sweet carrots.
- 1 small onion, chopped: A good soup always starts with onion. It’s the flavor foundation that gives the broth a gentle sweetness once it’s sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t be shy here — garlic is what makes the kitchen smell irresistible while your Ground Turkey Soup simmers. Fresh garlic adds richness and depth that powdered can’t replace.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots bring a natural sweetness and that gorgeous orange color. They also balance the mild flavor of turkey beautifully.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Celery adds an earthy, aromatic base. Together with onion and carrot, it forms the classic mirepoix — the trio that makes any soup worth savoring.
- 1 zucchini, chopped: Zucchini adds a pop of color and soft texture that melts into the broth. It’s a little trick I use to sneak in extra vegetables — and my kids never complain.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Use fire-roasted if you want an extra smoky note. The tomatoes lend a rich, slightly tangy base that balances the herbs and turkey.
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): This is the backbone of the soup. A good-quality broth transforms a simple pot of ingredients into something special. If you prefer a vegetarian twist, you can try vegetable broth — it still gives that deep, comforting flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds warmth and that “homey” aroma we all associate with cozy soups.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a subtle, herby edge that pairs perfectly with the turkey.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Always season in layers — start with a pinch when you brown the turkey, and finish with a taste test before serving.
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional): I love adding these at the end for a pop of sweetness and color. They make the soup feel extra fresh.
- 1 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional): Want to make it more filling? Stir in some cooked pasta, brown rice, or even quinoa in the final few minutes. It turns the soup into a hearty, one-pot meal — perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Don’t skip the final touch! A sprinkle of parsley adds brightness and a restaurant-worthy finish to your bowl.
Every spoonful of this Ground Turkey Soup brings a balance of lean protein, colorful vegetables, and feel-good flavor. It’s that perfect recipe you can throw together after work, or simmer on a Sunday while catching up on laundry — either way, it delivers warmth in every bite.
If you enjoy soups that pack in veggies and comfort in one bowl, you might also love my Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles — another nourishing favorite that’s perfect for cold days.
How to Make Ground Turkey Soup
Making Ground Turkey Soup at home is wonderfully simple — it’s a one-pot comfort meal that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. The secret is layering each ingredient so every bite tastes like it’s been simmering all day (even though it only takes about 30 minutes).
Here’s exactly how to do it, step by step.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks — this helps you get that perfect crumbly texture.
Season with a good pinch of salt and black pepper early on. This not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also builds the foundation for your broth. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the turkey is no longer pink and lightly browned.
You’ll know it’s ready when you smell that savory aroma filling your kitchen — that’s the base note of your Ground Turkey Soup coming to life. Once browned, remove the turkey and set it aside on a plate.
💡 Jessica’s Tip: Don’t rush this step. Browning adds a “homemade” flavor that you can’t get if the turkey just steams. A few golden bits stuck to the bottom? That’s flavor gold — we’ll use it later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot (don’t clean it — those little brown bits are flavor boosters), add your chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery.
Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and the onion turns translucent. You’ll start to smell that classic soup base aroma — earthy, savory, and a little sweet.
If your family loves veggie-packed soups like my Vegetable Orzo Soup, this step will feel familiar. Building flavor starts here, and a gentle sauté makes a huge difference.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in your can of diced tomatoes (with the juice) and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pot — this step gives the soup that deep, rich flavor even though we’re using lean turkey.
Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer. The tomatoes will start to break down slightly, blending with the broth to create that classic hearty texture.
Step 4: Season with Herbs and Simmer
Now it’s time for the magic — the herbs. Sprinkle in dried thyme and oregano, and season again with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs add that comforting, homemade flavor that makes Ground Turkey Soup taste like it’s been simmering all afternoon.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes. This is when the flavors meld, the vegetables tenderize, and the aroma fills your kitchen with that “dinnertime is coming” scent.
💬 Jessica’s Note: This is usually when my kids wander into the kitchen asking, “Is it ready yet?” — a sure sign the soup’s working its cozy charm.
Step 5: Add the Turkey and Extras
Carefully return your cooked ground turkey to the pot, stirring it in with the vegetables and broth. If you’d like to bulk up the meal, now’s the time to add frozen peas or a cup of cooked pasta or rice.
Simmer everything together for another 5–10 minutes so the flavors can mingle. You’ll see the broth thicken slightly and the vegetables become perfectly tender.
If you prefer a creamier version, you can even stir in a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream for a mild richness — kind of like a lighter version of my White Chicken Lasagna Soup.
Step 6: Taste, Adjust, and Serve
Before serving, taste your soup — and don’t skip this part. Depending on the broth you used, you may need another pinch of salt or pepper.
Once the flavor is just right, ladle the Ground Turkey Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. The parsley adds color and a bright finish that ties everything together.
Serve hot, preferably with a slice of crusty bread or a warm biscuit for dipping.
💛 Jessica’s Family Tip: If you make it ahead of time, the flavors deepen overnight. The next day’s leftovers are even better — perfect for meal prep lunches or a quick, healthy dinner.
Optional Step: Make It Your Own
One of my favorite things about Ground Turkey Soup is how flexible it is. Once you master the base, you can easily change it up depending on what’s in your fridge:
- Swap zucchini for spinach, kale, or bell peppers for a boost of greens.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Stir in quinoa or barley instead of rice for more texture.
- Want a creamy version? Stir in half a cup of coconut milk at the end.
You can even turn this into a freezer-friendly meal — just skip the pasta before freezing, and add it fresh when you reheat.
If you enjoy soups that evolve with what you have on hand, you’ll love my Three Sisters Stew Recipe. It’s another one-pot wonder that’s hearty, nutrient-rich, and deeply satisfying.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Turkey Soup
- Use Lean Turkey: Keeps the broth light and flavorful.
- Add a Little Heat: A pinch of chili flakes goes a long way for warmth.
- Don’t Overcook the Veggies: They should be tender but hold their shape.
- Make It Your Own: Swap zucchini for bell peppers or spinach for a fun twist.
- Flavor Boost: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens it beautifully.
My youngest actually calls this “rainbow soup” because of all the colors — and honestly, I don’t correct him. It’s one of those rare moments where healthy and kid-friendly meet in the same bowl!
Storage and Reheating
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
It also freezes well — just skip the pasta before freezing (it tends to get mushy). Add fresh pasta or rice when reheating for that just-made texture.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the turkey first, then add everything else and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Is this Ground Turkey Soup gluten-free?
It is if you skip the pasta or use a gluten-free version.
Can I use ground chicken instead?
Absolutely. Ground chicken works just as well for a similar flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Soup is everything I love in a dinner — nourishing, colorful, and made with love. It’s the kind of soup that soothes you after a long day, fills the house with warmth, and reminds you that simple food can be extraordinary.
Give it a try this week — and if you do, tag me on Instagram or leave a comment below. I love seeing your creations come to life in your kitchens.
Because at the end of the day, food isn’t just about flavor — it’s about care, connection, and the comfort of a meal shared.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
Print
Ground Turkey Soup – Quick, Nutritious, and Family-Approved
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Ground Turkey Soup is hearty, healthy, and packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables. Made in one pot, it’s the perfect cozy dinner for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the turkey from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Return the cooked ground turkey to the pot. If desired, add frozen peas and cooked pasta or rice. Stir everything together and simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Lean ground turkey works best to keep the soup light while still providing plenty of protein.
Swap zucchini for bell peppers, spinach, or kale for variety.
To make the soup more filling, add cooked pasta, quinoa, or rice in the last few minutes of cooking.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño if you like a little heat.
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added at the end for brighter flavor.
Simmer the soup for at least 20 minutes to develop flavor.
Add vegetables at the right time to keep them tender but not mushy.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving, especially depending on the broth used.
