Turkey Pot Pie Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, you’ve come to the right place! Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a delightful twist on the classic pot pie, blending creamy goodness with hearty ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Plus, it’s an excellent way to transform Thanksgiving leftovers into something special!

This soup is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up in less than an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for loved ones, this Turkey Pot Pie Soup is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With prep and cook time under 1 hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe pleases both kids and adults alike with its creamy texture and savory flavors.
• Versatile: Great for using up leftover turkey or chicken, it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of herbs and fresh vegetables creates a soul-satisfying dish that’s hard to resist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for an effortless meal later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a breeze! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that feels like home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 4 slices of thick-cut bacon (1/2 lb), cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup celery, sliced
• 1 leek, white stalk, rinsed clean and sliced thin
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dry white grape juice
• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into quarter rounds
• 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

Broth & Creaminess

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half

Veggies & Protein

• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into half moons
• 3 cups leftover turkey or chicken meat, shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about Turkey Pot Pie Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of turkey or chicken, try using rotisserie chicken or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Change the base: For a lighter option, swap half-and-half with coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Make Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy—about 6-7 minutes. This step adds incredible flavor to your soup! Remember to set aside the crispy bacon on a paper towel-lined plate while leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the butter to the pot along with that lovely bacon fat. Let it melt over medium heat before adding in your diced onion, sliced celery, and leek. Cook these aromatic vegetables for about 2 minutes. Mixing in flour now will help thicken your soup later; cook this mixture for another minute before slowly pouring in the white grape juice.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

It’s time to introduce the Yukon gold potatoes along with thyme, sage, and black pepper. Pour in both water and chicken broth along with half-and-half. Cover your pot and bring this delicious medley to a boil—this is where all those flavors start coming together beautifully!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Once boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer partially covered for about 10 minutes. Then add the carrots and simmer until everything is tender—this should take around another five minutes. Stir in your shredded turkey (or chicken), peas, and those crispy bacon bits until everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Final Seasoning Touches

Now comes my favorite part! Add that splash of apple cider vinegar along with salt and parsley. Give it all a good taste test; feel free to adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Serve your Turkey Pot Pie Soup hot in bowls—or if you’re feeling extra cozy—inside warm bread bowls! Don’t forget that final touch of cracked black pepper along with chopped chives and fresh thyme leaves on top for garnish.

Enjoy this hearty soup with loved ones around your table—I promise it will bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Making Turkey Pot Pie Soup can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage add a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. They elevate the dish and make it taste more homemade.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allowing the vegetables to simmer will enhance their flavors and create a more robust broth. Patience here is key to achieving that rich taste.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a bit more flour or letting it simmer longer to reduce. Just remember to stir frequently to avoid sticking!

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies you love, such as green beans or corn. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds variety to the flavor profile.

• Leftover Magic: This soup is perfect for using up leftover turkey or chicken, making it an excellent choice after holiday feasts. You can even freeze extra portions for an easy meal later!

How to Serve Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Serving this comforting soup can turn a simple dinner into a cozy occasion. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully and deliciously!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing visual contrast.
• Thyme Leaves: A few fresh thyme leaves on top create a lovely presentation while reinforcing the herbaceous notes in the dish.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. It provides texture and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add depth and make for a colorful plate.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are always a hit! These are great for dipping and add an aromatic element to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Turkey Pot Pie Soup will not only nourish but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Pot Pie Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For a quicker option, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Turkey Pot Pie Soup!

Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this Turkey Pot Pie Soup?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shredded chicken if you prefer or have leftovers from another meal.

How can I make my Turkey Pot Pie Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired consistency.

What vegetables can I add to my Turkey Pot Pie Soup?

Feel free to get creative! You can add peas, corn, green beans, or any other favorite vegetables you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

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

Stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?

Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute turkey with plant-based protein and use coconut milk instead of half-and-half. You may also want to replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Pot Pie Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Whether you’re using up Thanksgiving leftovers or simply craving something hearty and satisfying, this dish has got you covered. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Happy cooking!