Italian Ground Turkey Soup

Imagine a bowl of soup that’s as cozy as it is nourishing—a rich, savory broth filled with lean ground turkey, veggies, and Italian-inspired seasonings. This Italian Ground Turkey Soup is exactly that! It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re getting a big, warm hug in every bite. The turkey adds a lean, flavorful twist, while the herbs and spices give it a little Italian flair. Whether you’re in the mood for something light yet filling or need a cozy meal after a long day, this soup has you covered.

Why You’ll Love Italian Ground Turkey Soup

This soup is all about bringing together bold, comforting flavors in one delicious bowl. Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again:

Lean and Flavorful

The ground turkey is a healthy, lean alternative to beef, yet still packed with flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy all the richness of a traditional Italian soup without the heaviness.

Packed with Veggies

You’re not just getting protein in this soup—you’ve also got a whole array of colorful vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, zucchini, and spinach. It’s like a veggie party in your bowl!

Quick and Easy

You don’t need to spend all day in the kitchen to make this soup. With a few simple steps, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes. Busy weeknight? No problem!

Customizable

Feel free to add in any veggies you love. If you’re not a fan of zucchini, swap it out for bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also adjust the seasonings to make it spicier or milder, depending on your taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This soup is a great option whether you’re feeding your family, having friends over, or meal prepping for the week. It’s one of those recipes that’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Ground Turkey Soup:

Ground Turkey

The star of the show! Lean ground turkey provides the perfect balance of flavor and protein without the extra fat.

Vegetables

Tomatoes, carrots, zucchini, and spinach bring color, texture, and a whole lot of nutrients to this soup. You can also toss in other veggies like celery or bell peppers if you like.

Garlic and Onion

For that rich base of flavor, garlic and onion are a must. They’re sautéed at the beginning to release their fragrant oils, creating a flavorful foundation for the soup.

Italian Herbs and Seasonings

Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, and a touch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat) make the soup fragrant and savory. You can also throw in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten things up.

Broth

A good broth (chicken or vegetable) is key to giving the soup depth. It’s the base that holds all the flavors together and helps everything meld beautifully.

Olive Oil

A little olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and ground turkey, adding richness and flavor.

Parmesan (Optional)

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top at the end gives the soup that finishing touch. It adds a salty, nutty depth that makes every bite extra special.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making this Italian Ground Turkey Soup is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s how to do it:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Brown the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is browned and cooked through. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

Add the Veggies and Seasonings

Stir in the carrots, zucchini, and tomatoes. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes to let the veggies soften slightly and the spices become fragrant.

Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Stir in the Spinach

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and is fully incorporated into the soup.

Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, or additional herbs as needed. If you like your soup a little spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if desired), and serve hot. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 25g
Vitamin D: 2%
Calcium: 10%
Iron: 15%
Potassium: 800mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Italian Ground Turkey Soup

With Crusty Bread

A bowl of this soup pairs perfectly with warm, crusty bread. You can dip it into the broth and enjoy that perfect combination of flavors and textures.

With a Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the soup. The crispness of the salad offers a nice contrast to the warm soup.

Over Rice or Quinoa

If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve this soup over a bed of rice or quinoa. The grains soak up the broth and add an extra layer of satisfaction to your meal.

Topped with Extra Cheese

Want to take it to the next level? Top your soup with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese. It melts perfectly and makes each spoonful even more irresistible.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead

This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. The flavors only get better over time!

Freeze for Later

If you’d like to freeze this soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Add Beans for Extra Protein

For a boost of protein and fiber, consider adding a can of white beans or cannellini beans to the soup. Simply stir them in when you add the broth and let them simmer with the soup.

Make It Spicier

If you love a little heat, don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes. You can also add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.

Skip the Ground Turkey for Beef or Chicken

While ground turkey is the star of this recipe, feel free to substitute it with ground beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or plant-based ground meat.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?
A1: Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work great in this soup, and they’ll save you time on prep. Just add them in when you would normally add the fresh veggies.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This soup actually tastes better after a day or two, as the flavors have time to develop. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes! Let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What other vegetables can I add?
A5: Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even kale would be great additions to this soup.

Q6: Can I make this soup spicier?
A6: Yes! Add more red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or even a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat.

Q7: Can I use a different kind of meat?
A7: Absolutely! You can swap the ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or pork if you prefer.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
A8: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Q9: Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?
A9: Yes, this soup is relatively low in carbs. If you’re following a keto diet, just skip the beans or serve it with a low-carb side.

Q10: Can I add pasta to this soup?
A10: Absolutely! Small pasta like ditalini or orzo would be great in this soup. Just cook the pasta separately and add it in when serving.

Conclusion

This Italian Ground Turkey Soup is everything you want in a meal: hearty, flavorful, and so comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for the week ahead, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With all the savory flavors, fresh veggies, and a rich broth, it’s guaranteed to become one of your go-to recipes. Enjoy every spoonful!

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