Description
Creamy Turkey Rice Soup is a delicious and hearty way to use up holiday leftovers. It features wild rice, leftover turkey, butternut squash, and vegetables all simmered in a savory, creamy broth. Ideal for chilly days after big gatherings.
Ingredients
For the rice:
- 8 oz. wild rice
- 3 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
For the veggies:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large carrots, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 12 oz. butternut squash (about 3 cups), chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Other:
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
- 7–9 cups lower-sodium chicken broth, divided
- 4 cups shredded leftover turkey (dark and white meat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
1. In a medium stock pot, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add wild rice and reduce to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 45–50 minutes, or until rice is al dente. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. In a large stock pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and butternut squash. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic in the last 30 seconds.
3. Add flour, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir for 2 minutes until flour is fully incorporated.
4. Pour in 6–7 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup thickens.
5. Add the cooked wild rice, shredded turkey, and heavy cream. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes.
6. Let the soup rest for a few minutes to allow the rice to plump up. Add more broth if needed for desired consistency.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Soup thickens over time as the rice continues to absorb liquid, so add extra broth when reheating if desired.