There is something truly comforting about a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it combines tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and a luscious, velvety broth. This Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is a heartfelt favorite that brings warmth and rich flavor with every spoonful. Perfect for using up leftover turkey or just treating yourself to a cozy meal, this soup beautifully balances creamy textures with the wonderful chew of wild rice and the freshness of herbs. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become one of those go-to dishes that feels both special and effortlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in harmony to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying soup. Each element plays its part, from the butter that adds richness, to the wild rice that brings delightful texture, and the fresh herbs that brighten the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup butter: Provides a rich, silky base for sautéing your vegetables and building flavor.
- 3 cups celery (chopped): Adds a fresh, crisp bite and subtle aromatic depth.
- 2 large onions (chopped): Essential for sweetness and a classic savory foundation.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon dried poultry seasoning: Offers a warm, herbaceous note that complements turkey beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic (smashed and minced): Adds a punch of fragrant, savory goodness.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the creamy texture by thickening the broth gently.
- 4 (31-oz) jars Zoup! Chicken Bone Broth (15 cups): A nutrient-rich, flavorful liquid base for the soup.
- 1 bay leaf: Imparts subtle earthiness during cooking.
- 5 sprigs fresh thyme: Offers fresh herbal brightness to the broth.
- 8 large carrots (shredded): Provides natural sweetness and a tender texture to the soup.
- 4 cups leftover cooked turkey: The star protein, combining juicy white and dark meat for depth.
- 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking wild rice blend: Adds a nutty, chewy texture with just the right bite.
- 1 1/2 cups cream: Brings luxurious creaminess and rounds out the flavors.
- Juice from 1 large lemon (1/4 cup): Brightens the soup with a fresh, citrus zing.
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped): Adds a warm, piney herbal kick.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped): Brings earthy, slightly peppery notes that enhance the turkey.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a mild, fresh finish and color contrast.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Crucial for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- More fresh herbs (to garnish): For a bright, inviting final touch.
How to Make Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Begin by melting the butter in a very large stock pot over medium heat. This is where the magic starts, as the butter gently cooks the celery and onions until they become soft and fragrant. Adding kosher salt and dried poultry seasoning here helps release those wonderful herbal notes early on.
Step 2: Develop Flavor with Garlic and Flour
Once the onions are translucent, stir in the minced garlic just until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Then sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir thoroughly. This quick step creates the base for the soup’s creamy texture, thickening the broth beautifully without any lumps.
Step 3: Add Broth and Herbs
Slowly pour in the chicken bone broth while continuously stirring to keep everything smooth. Toss in the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf, which will infuse the soup with earthy, aromatic flavors as it simmers.
Step 4: Incorporate the Carrots
Shred your carrots finely using a food processor or a cheese grater for that perfect tender texture. Adding them now and bringing the pot to a boil allows their natural sweetness to meld seamlessly into the base.
Step 5: Add Turkey and Simmer
Once boiling, stir in the turkey, lowering the heat to a gentle simmer. This slow cooking softens the carrots further while allowing the turkey to warm through without drying out. Aim for a slow bubble—just enough to coax out the flavors without rushing.
Step 6: Cook the Wild Rice
Stir in your quick-cooking wild rice blend and bring the soup back to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer again until the rice is tender and chewy, adding that signature texture that makes the Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe so special.
Step 7: Finish with Cream and Fresh Herbs
Turn the heat to low and stir in the cream for that indulgent richness. Next, add freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness and carefully fold in chopped rosemary, sage, and parsley. Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference, and don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf and thyme stems before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs sprinkled on top really elevate the soup, adding bursts of color and freshness. A little extra drizzle of cream can make the presentation look even more inviting and decadent.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or a warm, buttery biscuit. A mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy texture, making your meal feel perfectly balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun twist or ladle it over a bed of steamed greens for added vibrancy. You can also offer toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts to add extra texture and flavor layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup holds up wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers to keep all the flavors fresh and distinct. The texture of wild rice remains pleasantly chewy even after refrigeration.
Freezing
Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe also freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing in portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to save space. When thawed, give it a good stir to recombine the creamy broth and enjoy whenever you want a comforting meal in minutes.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. If the soup thickens too much upon cooling, add a little broth or water to loosen it to your preferred consistency. The fresh herbs can be refreshed by adding a sprinkle of parsley when serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! This Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe works equally well with leftover cooked chicken, and it’s a great way to customize based on what you have on hand.
Is quick-cooking wild rice the same as regular wild rice?
Quick-cooking wild rice is pre-steamed and dried, so it cooks much faster than regular wild rice. Using it saves a lot of time, especially when making this hearty soup.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will change the flavor slightly but still provide a creamy richness.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts—typically about a third of the fresh quantity. Just add them earlier in the cooking process so they can rehydrate and release their flavors fully.
Can I prepare this soup entirely in advance?
Definitely. It tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded. Just leave out the cream and fresh herbs, adding those right before serving to keep the soup bright and creamy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soul-satisfying meal that’s both cozy and packed with wholesome flavors, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe a try. It’s a beautiful way to make the most of leftovers or simply indulge in a bowl of comfort that tastes like a warm hug. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a cherished classic in your home too!
