Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish, bringing all the comforting flavors you love into a creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re using up Thanksgiving leftovers or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this Turkey Pot Pie Soup offers warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. With tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture and savory ingredients create a warm and inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover turkey or chicken, and customize with your favorite veggies to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutritious ingredients like vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items to prepare this delicious Turkey Pot Pie Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked bacon without excess grease while keeping the flavor intact.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of veggies, making prep work quicker.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, (diced)
• 1 cup celery, (sliced)
• 1 leek, white stalk, (rinsed clean and sliced thin)
• 1/4 cup (32 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white grape juice

For the Vegetables

• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, (peeled and sliced into quarter rounds)
• 3 carrots, (peeled and cut into half moons)
• 1 cup frozen peas

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, (chopped or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, (chopped or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon black pepper, (freshly ground, to taste)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

For the Broth

• 2 cups (474 ml) water
• 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth

For Finishing Touches

• 1 cup (237 ml) half-and-half
• 3 cups leftover turkey or chicken meat, (shredded)
• 1 teaspoon apple vinegar vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives, (for garnish; omit if using dried herbs)
• Fresh thyme leaves, (for garnish; optional)

How to Make Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon pieces until crisp for about 6-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the butter to the pot over medium heat. Stir it into the bacon fat until melted. Next, add the onion, celery, and leek. Cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Mix in the flour and cook for another minute before slowly pouring in the white grape juice. Cook this mixture gently for about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the potatoes along with thyme, sage, and pepper. Pour in water and chicken broth followed by half-and-half. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Vegetables

Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer. Cook partially covered for about 10 minutes. Add carrots to the mix next. Simmer until all vegetables are tender—approximately another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Turkey & Peas

Add shredded turkey (or chicken), frozen peas, and cooked bacon back into the pot. Stir gently until everything is warmed through—about 3 minutes.

Step 6: Final Seasoning & Serve

Finish by adding apple vinegar vinegar along with salt and parsley. Taste your soup; adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot in bowls or warm bread bowls garnished with black pepper, chopped chives, and fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Turkey Pot Pie Soup!

How to Serve Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

In a Bread Bowl

• A warm, crusty bread bowl adds an exciting twist and allows you to enjoy the soup and the bread together.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh thyme leaves or chopped chives enhances flavor and adds a touch of color to your presentation.

Accompanied by Crackers

• Serve alongside crunchy crackers for added texture and an easy way to scoop up the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• A sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, melts beautifully on top for a creamy finish.

Paired with Salad

• A light garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, making for a balanced meal.

Served with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• This classic combination is perfect for dipping and offers a comforting element alongside the soup.

How to Perfect Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Creating the perfect Turkey Pot Pie Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips that will ensure your soup is deliciously creamy and well-balanced.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour when sautéing the vegetables or let it simmer longer.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference throughout cooking.
• Add Variety: Feel free to incorporate different vegetables like green beans or corn for added nutrition and variety.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance. Just reheat gently on low heat before serving.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Pot Pie Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Garlic Bread
   A buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping and adds extra flavor alongside your soup.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup while adding crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors of the soup.
4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast that brightens up your meal.
5. Cheddar Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits with cheese are delightful companions that soak up every drop of soup goodness.
6. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins add a comforting touch and pair beautifully with warm soups.
7. Stuffed Peppers
   These can serve as a hearty side, filled with rice, beans, or veggies, making them nutritious partners to your main dish.
8. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying side that’s fun to eat alongside your turkey pot pie soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Turkey Pot Pie Soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of meat: Always use cooked turkey or chicken for the best flavor. Leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Keep an eye on cooking times. Overcooked veggies can become mushy and lose their texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper levels according to your preference for a more flavorful soup.
• Skipping the thickening step: Make sure to mix flour with the other ingredients well before adding liquids. This helps achieve a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring garnish options: Garnishes like chives and thyme add color and flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Turkey Pot Pie Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey Pot Pie Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Pot Pie Soup:

Can I use leftover turkey for this soup?

Yes, leftover turkey adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred it before adding it to the soup.

How can I make this soup thicker?

To thicken Turkey Pot Pie Soup, let it simmer longer or mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup.

Can I substitute vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as green beans or corn.

How long does Turkey Pot Pie Soup last in the fridge?

Stored properly, it will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Is Turkey Pot Pie Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions for easy reheating throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. It’s versatile too; feel free to customize it with different vegetables or spices. This recipe is not just ideal for using up leftovers but also makes a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love.