A bowl of turkey with wild rice soup delivers warmth, comfort, and nourishment in every bite. Tender chunks of turkey, earthy wild rice, and a medley of vegetables come together to create a rich, savory broth that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas.
This soup offers the perfect way to use leftover turkey while turning simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Carrots, celery, and onions lend color and natural sweetness, while the wild rice brings texture and a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the savory turkey.
Every spoonful feels wholesome, hearty, and homemade. Whether you crave something cozy after a long day or need a nutritious option during cooler months, this soup fits the occasion.
Enjoy it fresh off the stove or store it for later it only gets better with time. One pot, one ladle, and a whole lot of comfort await in this delicious classic.
Turkey with Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Turkey with wild rice soup is a warm and filling dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s a smart way to use leftover turkey, especially after a holiday meal. The mix of tender turkey, nutty wild rice, fresh vegetables, and herbs gives the soup a rich and cozy flavor.
Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup easy too. This recipe is simple enough for beginners. Each step is easy to follow, and the ingredients are basic.
No special tools or skills needed. You’ll enjoy a thick, creamy broth with bites of soft rice and juicy turkey in every spoonful. It feels like comfort in a bowl.
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Serving: 6 people
- Calorie: 290 per serving
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1/3 cup all-purpose flour
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6 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
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2 cups cooked wild rice
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2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
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1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Optional Add-ins:
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1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
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1/4 cup chopped parsley
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1 bay leaf
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Stir often and cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 2: Add Flour and Seasonings
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables. Stir well to coat. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring for 2 minutes until the flour blends in.
Step 3: Add Broth and Rice
Slowly pour in the broth while stirring. Bring the soup to a boil. Add wild rice and lower the heat to medium. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Add Turkey and Cream
Add cooked turkey to the soup. Pour in milk or cream. Stir and let it cook for another 10 minutes. The soup should thicken and the flavors should mix well.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Check the salt and adjust if needed. Remove bay leaf if used. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve hot.
Top Tips
Use Leftover Turkey
Leftover roasted or baked turkey works best. Both dark and white meat taste great in this soup.
Wild Rice Choice
Use real wild rice for the best texture. It holds up well and gives a nutty flavor.
Thick or Thin
Add more broth if the soup is too thick. For a creamier soup, add extra cream or a splash of milk.
Make Ahead
The soup tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Variations
Make It Dairy-Free
Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream. Or skip the cream for a lighter soup.
Use Chicken Instead
No turkey? Use cooked chicken instead. The taste stays just as good.
Add More Veggies
Add spinach, green beans, or chopped zucchini. Toss them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Spice It Up
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 290 kcal
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Protein: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fat: 13g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 3g
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Sodium: 580mg
FAQs
Can I freeze turkey wild rice soup?
Yes. Let the soup cool first. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
Can I use uncooked wild rice?
Yes, but you must cook it first. Wild rice takes 40–50 minutes to cook. Cook it separately, then add it to the soup.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook the veggies first on the stove. Then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
Conclusion
Turkey with wild rice soup brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your table. It’s a perfect dish for cold days or busy nights. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a hearty meal the whole family will enjoy. Try it once, and it may become a regular in your kitchen.