Turkey Pot Pie Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then Turkey Pot Pie Soup is just what you need! This recipe brings all the delightful flavors of a traditional pot pie into a creamy, hearty soup. It’s perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers or simply enjoying on a busy weeknight with your loved ones. Trust me, once you taste this delightful dish, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl filled with tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s not only delicious but also so easy to make! Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or just need an easy dinner idea, this Turkey Pot Pie Soup fits the bill beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Ready in under an hour, this soup is perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and creamy texture.
• Perfect for leftovers: Transform your holiday turkey into something new and exciting.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
• Nourishing and filling: Packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep everyone satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Most are pantry staples, making this recipe even more convenient. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Turkey Pot Pie Soup:

For the Soup

• 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
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into half moons
• 3 cups leftover turkey or chicken meat, shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon apple vinegar 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 things about Turkey Pot Pie Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add different veggies: Throw in some corn or green beans for added texture and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Change the base: Swap out half-and-half for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by heating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook those delicious bacon pieces until they’re nice and crispy—about 6-7 minutes. This step adds a depth of flavor that will set the stage for your soup. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Don’t forget to leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot—it’s packed with flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next up, melt the unsalted butter in that same pot over medium heat. Stir in diced onion, sliced celery, and thinly sliced leek. Let them cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Mixing in flour here helps thicken our soup later on; cook it for another minute before slowly adding dry white grape juice while stirring gently.

Step 3: Add More Flavor

Now it’s time to add those Yukon gold potatoes along with fresh thyme and sage. Season generously with black pepper before pouring in water and low-sodium chicken broth followed by half-and-half. Cover it all up and bring it to a boil—this is where all those wonderful flavors start coming together!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Once boiling, reduce the heat to let everything simmer partially covered for about 10 minutes. After that time has passed, toss in those lovely carrot half moons and continue simmering until everything is tender—about another 5 minutes should do it!

Step 5: Finish It Off

Stir in your shredded turkey or chicken along with frozen peas and cooked bacon—warm them through for about 3 minutes. Finally, add apple vinegar vinegar along with salt and parsley; taste as you go to adjust any seasonings.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your Turkey Pot Pie Soup hot in bowls or even warm bread bowls! Don’t forget an extra crack of black pepper on top along with chopped chives and fresh thyme if you’d like some garnish.

Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Making a delicious Turkey Pot Pie Soup is all about the little details that elevate the dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup comes out absolutely amazing!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and sage impart a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match. They add a fragrant aroma and freshness that brightens your soup.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This will create a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

• Add variety to vegetables: Feel free to include other seasonal veggies like green beans or corn for added color and nutrition. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the soup’s health benefits.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight for an even richer taste when reheated.

• Customize your protein: If you don’t have turkey, leftover rotisserie chicken is an excellent substitute. This flexibility makes it easy to use whatever you have on hand!

How to Serve Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Serving Turkey Pot Pie Soup is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal extra special!

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that enhances presentation.
• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of these provides an aromatic touch that makes each bowl feel gourmet.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle adds richness and a beautiful sheen to your soup, making it look appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. It adds texture and complements the flavors beautifully.

• Simple green salad: A mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing out the meal.

• Garlic knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots are not only delicious but also fun to dip into your soup, adding an appealing twist to your dining experience.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring both color and health benefits to your table, providing a nutritious side that pairs well with the comforting nature of the soup.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Turkey Pot Pie Soup with these serving suggestions! Whether it’s for family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Pot Pie Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready to go during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Turkey Pot Pie Soup!

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

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shredded chicken if you prefer. Both turkey and chicken provide delicious flavors.

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

Turkey Pot Pie Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I add more vegetables to my Turkey Pot Pie Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate any of your favorite vegetables such as green beans, corn, or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Turkey Pot Pie Soup as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy, especially during chilly evenings or after holiday gatherings. Whether you’re using up leftovers or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this soup is sure to please your family. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!