Name: Turkey Wild Rice Soup: Hearty 1-Pot Comfort
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped; 2 celery stalks diced; 2 large carrots diced; 3 cloves garlic minced; 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 teaspoon dried tarragon; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 6 cups turkey or chicken stock; 2 cups cooked wild rice; 2 cups cooked shredded turkey; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Chopped parsley or tarragon for garnish (optional)

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Turkey wild rice soup has always been my absolute favorite way to welcome autumn. I remember my mom making a big pot of this hearty soup whenever the leaves started to turn; the aroma of savory herbs and tender turkey filling our cozy kitchen was pure magic. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, a true comfort food turkey wild rice soup that warms you from the inside out. I’ve tweaked her recipe over the years, adding white wine and tarragon for an extra layer of flavor, and I can’t wait for you to try this version. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Wild Rice Soup

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort and flavor that you’ll want to make again and again. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:

The taste is absolutely divine – a perfect blend of savory, creamy, and hearty.
It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an easy turkey wild rice soup for busy weeknights.
Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying and relatively healthy option.
Using leftover turkey makes this a budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for post-holiday cooking.
Kids and adults alike adore this soup, making it a fantastic family-friendly meal.
It’s a truly easy turkey wild rice soup to whip up, even if you’re new to making soup from scratch.
The combination of tender turkey, chewy wild rice, and fresh vegetables is incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients for Homemade Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Gathering these turkey wild rice soup ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious meal. I’ve found that using good quality stock makes a big difference, and don’t shy away from the white wine – it adds a lovely depth! Using leftover turkey is a fantastic way to make this recipe even more economical and convenient.

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing our aromatics
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – adds richness
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – the base of our flavor
2 celery stalks, diced – for that classic soup crunch
2 large carrots, diced – adds sweetness and color
3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for savory depth
8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced – for an earthy, umami note
1/2 cup dry white wine – like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to deglaze and add complexity
1 teaspoon dried tarragon – its unique anise-like flavor is a star here
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic soup herb
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – for a subtle kick
6 cups turkey or chicken stock – the heart of the soup
2 cups cooked wild rice – chewy and nutty
2 cups cooked shredded turkey – leftover roast turkey is perfect!
1/2 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, creamy texture
1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens all the flavors
Chopped parsley or tarragon for garnish (optional) – for a fresh finish

Turkey Wild Rice Soup: Hearty 1-Pot Comfort - Turkey Wild Rice Soup - main visual representation

How to Make the Best Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Making this hearty soup is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a flavorful and comforting dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll master how to make turkey wild rice soup in no time!

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to use it for warming the soup later, though this recipe is primarily stovetop.
Step 2: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped 1 medium yellow onion, diced 2 celery stalks, and diced 2 large carrots. Sauté these vegetables until they begin to soften, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Toss in the minced 3 cloves garlic and sliced 8 oz cremini mushrooms. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to turn a lovely golden brown.
Step 4: Pour in the 1/2 cup dry white wine. As you pour, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot – this is where so much flavor lives! Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavor to concentrate.
Step 5: Stir in the 1 teaspoon dried tarragon, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Add the 6 cups turkey or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Now, it’s time to add the stars of the show! Stir in the 2 cups cooked wild rice and 2 cups cooked shredded turkey. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, giving the rice and turkey time to heat through and absorb the savory broth.
Step 7: Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Stir in the 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want a pinch more salt or pepper. If you desire a thicker consistency, gently mash some of the cooked wild rice against the side of the pot with your spoon and stir it into the soup. This is a great trick for how to make turkey wild rice soup thicker without adding more thickeners.
Step 8: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or tarragon, if you like, and serve immediately. This is a perfect soup to enjoy with some crusty bread for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Elevate your homemade soup with these insider tips for a truly exceptional bowl!

For the richest flavor, use dark meat turkey. It has more fat and provides a deeper, more satisfying taste in your soup.
Don’t rush the sautéing of the vegetables; letting them soften and caramelize a bit builds a foundational sweetness and depth.
If you’re making this ahead, cook the wild rice separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy in the broth.
Taste and adjust seasonings at the very end. Lemon juice and a final check for salt and pepper can make all the difference.

What’s the secret to perfect Turkey Wild Rice Soup?

The real secret lies in building layers of flavor! Sautéing the mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery) until tender, browning the mushrooms, and deglazing with white wine creates a complex base. This technique is key to achieving that sought-after depth, making it a truly outstanding creamy wild rice soup recipe.

Can I make Turkey Wild Rice Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep components like chopping vegetables and cooking the turkey and rice a day in advance. Store them separately. For the best texture, I recommend assembling and cooking the soup on the day you plan to serve it, or adding the cooked rice and turkey just before reheating.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Turkey Wild Rice Soup?

A common pitfall is overcooking the wild rice, which can make it mushy. Cook it separately to al dente and add it at the end. Also, avoid adding the cream too early or boiling the soup after adding it, as this can cause it to curdle. Gentle reheating is key. For more on cooking grains, you can check out resources on food safety.

Best Ways to Serve Turkey Wild Rice Soup

This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but a few simple additions can make it even more special. I love serving this wild rice soup with turkey alongside crusty bread for dipping into that flavorful broth. It’s wonderfully comforting and satisfying!

Crusty Bread or Rolls: A warm baguette or a hearty sourdough loaf is perfect for soaking up every last drop of this delicious soup.
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits add another layer of comfort and flavor that pairs beautifully with this soup.

Nutrition Facts for Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional goodness packed into each bowl of this comforting soup. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that offers a good balance of nutrients.

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of stock and turkey.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup

One of the best things about making a big pot of turkey wild rice soup is that it’s even better the next day! Properly storing and reheating ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal throughout the week. Once the soup has cooled slightly at room temperature for about an hour, transfer it to airtight containers.

Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This soup holds up beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep lunches.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Leave a little headspace in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup has thickened significantly from the rice, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling it vigorously, especially if you’ve added cream, to maintain that creamy texture. For more tips on preserving food, explore food storage guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Wild Rice Soup

What is turkey wild rice soup?

Turkey wild rice soup is a hearty and comforting soup featuring tender pieces of turkey, chewy wild rice, and a flavorful broth, often enriched with vegetables and sometimes a creamy base. It’s a classic American dish, especially popular during the fall and winter months, celebrated for its warming qualities and satisfying texture. Many variations exist, but the core ingredients remain turkey and wild rice.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! While this recipe is specifically for turkey wild rice soup, chicken is a very common and delicious substitute. If you use chicken, you can use cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs, or even chicken stock in place of turkey stock. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still wonderfully comforting, creating a lovely chicken and wild rice soup. You might also enjoy our garlic honey lime chicken recipe.

How do I make the soup thicker if it’s too thin?

If your homemade turkey wild rice soup is thinner than you prefer, there are a few tricks. You can mash some of the cooked wild rice against the side of the pot with a spoon and stir it in; the starches released will help thicken the broth. Alternatively, you could create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with a little cold water, then whisk it into the simmering soup until it thickens. A bit of heavy cream also adds richness and body. For a different kind of creamy dish, try these creamy avocado grilled cheese.

Is this soup healthy?

This hearty turkey wild rice soup can be quite healthy, especially when made with lean turkey and packed with vegetables like carrots and celery. Wild rice itself is a whole grain, offering fiber and nutrients. You can make it even healthier by using a low-sodium stock, omitting the heavy cream, or opting for a lighter milk alternative. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For more healthy meal ideas, check out our carnivore diet recipes.

Variations of Turkey Wild Rice Soup You Can Try

This classic soup is wonderfully versatile, and I love experimenting with different twists! Whether you’re looking for healthier options or new flavor profiles, there’s a variation for everyone. Here are a few ideas to make your turkey wild rice soup uniquely yours.

Healthy Turkey Wild Rice Soup: For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream and opt for a splash of half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach, kale, or peas for extra nutrients and fiber.
Slow Cooker Turkey Wild Rice Soup: Make this a true dump-and-go meal! Combine all ingredients except the cream and lemon juice in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and lemon juice before serving.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the garlic and mushrooms for a touch of heat that complements the savory flavors.
Mushroom Lover’s Dream: If you adore mushrooms, swap half the cremini for shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor profile.