Chunky Turkey Spinach Soup Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this hearty and wholesome Chunky Turkey Spinach Soup! Packed with tender chunks of turkey, vibrant spinach, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s unbelievably easy to make, full of nourishing ingredients, and comes together quickly — making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need something delicious, filling, and good for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: From stovetop to table in under an hour with minimal prep work.
• Incredibly Nourishing: Loaded with lean protein, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables — it’s a meal that feels as good as it tastes.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Big chunks of turkey and tender veggies create a heartwarming, satisfying texture that beats anything from a can.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Cooked Turkey: Perfect for using up leftover roasted turkey, giving the soup a rich, savory flavor.
• Fresh Spinach: Stirred in at the end for a burst of green goodness and extra nutrition.
• Carrots: For sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
• Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and a classic base flavor for the soup.
• Onion: A must-have for building a rich, savory depth right from the start.
• Garlic: Enhances the entire dish with its aromatic warmth.
• Chicken or Turkey Broth: Forms the flavorful, comforting base — use a good quality broth for the best results.
• Potatoes: Adds heartiness and helps make the soup extra satisfying.
• Tomatoes: Canned or fresh, they bring a slight acidity that balances the richness.
• Bay Leaves: Infuse the broth with a subtle herbal aroma.
• Thyme: Adds an earthy depth that complements the turkey beautifully.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding a touch of richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning — taste as you go!

Variations

• Add Grains: Stir in some cooked quinoa, rice, or barley for an even heartier soup.
• Go Low-Carb: Skip the potatoes and bulk up with more spinach and other low-carb veggies like zucchini.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Different Greens: Substitute kale or Swiss chard if you don’t have spinach on hand.

How to Make Chunky Turkey Spinach Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until they start to soften and the onions turn translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add the potatoes and let them cook until just tender — about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Turkey and Tomatoes

Stir in the cooked turkey and diced tomatoes. Let everything simmer gently for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach

Finally, add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon if you like, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Leftover Turkey: This soup is a fantastic way to use up Thanksgiving or holiday turkey leftovers.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Stir it in just before serving to keep its bright green color and tender texture.
• Chop Evenly: Try to chop your veggies into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
• Taste As You Go: Season at different stages — it builds layers of flavor!

How to Serve

This Chunky Turkey Spinach Soup shines all on its own, but here are some pairing ideas to round out your meal:

Garnishes

Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of good olive oil, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Sides

Serve with warm crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich if you want something extra cozy.

Meal Combo

Pair it with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad for a nutrient-packed meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully! Pour into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, or microwave in individual portions until hot. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook it first! Sauté bite-sized pieces of turkey in the pot before adding the vegetables, ensuring it’s fully cooked before continuing the recipe.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the turkey for canned white beans or chickpeas, use vegetable broth, and load up on extra veggies like zucchini and mushrooms.

How do I keep the spinach from getting soggy?
Add the spinach right at the end of cooking, and only stir it until it’s just wilted. This way, it stays bright, tender, and fresh.

What’s the best type of potato to use?
Yukon Gold potatoes are a great choice because they hold their shape without getting mushy. Russets can work too, but they’ll break down a bit more and thicken the soup.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy, and downright delicious meal that fits perfectly into your weeknight rotation, this Chunky Turkey Spinach Soup is calling your name. It’s warm, filling, and so easy to tweak to your own tastes. Whether you’re clearing out the fridge or just craving a bowl of cozy goodness, this recipe is here to make your life (and dinner time) a whole lot better. Give it a try — you’re going to love it!

Print