There’s something magical about wrapping your hands around a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. This Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup delivers all the warmth and nourishment you could ever crave. Packed with wholesome ingredients like tender ground turkey, vibrant vegetables, creamy coconut milk, and crispy bacon, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and nutritious eating.
With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy a rich, creamy broth, hearty chunks of potatoes, carrots, and zucchini, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve cooked something both delicious and healthy. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner for the family, this one-pot wonder will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup
This soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re fighting off the winter chill, nourishing your body after a long day, or simply looking for a comforting meal, this dish has you covered.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Wholesome Ingredients: With protein-packed ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and nutrient-dense baby spinach, this soup is as good for you as it is delicious.
- Creamy Without Dairy: Full-fat coconut milk adds a luscious, creamy texture while keeping the soup dairy-free.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor! Everything cooks in one pot for ultimate convenience.
- Versatile and Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the seasoning to your liking, or make it vegetarian by skipping the turkey and bacon.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting, hearty soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Thick-cut bacon | 4 slices | Chopped for crispy topping |
| Yellow onion | ½ (medium) | Diced for a flavorful base |
| Ground turkey | 1 lb | A lean protein that’s filling and tasty |
| Yukon gold potatoes | 3 small (chopped) | Adds creaminess and heartiness |
| Carrots | 2 large (peeled, chopped) | Adds sweetness and vibrant color |
| Zucchini squash | 1 medium (chopped) | Adds texture and fresh flavor |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | The flavorful base of the soup |
| Full-fat coconut milk | 15 oz (1 can) | Creates a creamy, dairy-free broth |
| Baby spinach | 3 cups | Nutrient-dense greens that wilt beautifully |
| Sea salt | ½ teaspoon (to taste) | Balances and enhances the flavors |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Ground Turkey
- In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the diced onion.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and aromatic.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, and zucchini squash.
- Sauté the vegetables for 3–4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and absorb the flavors from the turkey and onion.
4. Pour in the Broth and Coconut Milk
- Add the chicken broth and coconut milk to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
5. Add Spinach and Season
- Stir in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt for 2–3 minutes.
- Taste the soup and season with sea salt, adjusting as needed to suit your taste.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the crispy bacon bits you set aside earlier.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Why This Soup Is a Nutritional Powerhouse
1. Protein-Packed
Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, while bacon adds a smoky richness without overwhelming the dish.
2. Full of Vegetables
With carrots, zucchini, potatoes, and spinach, this soup is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to keep you full and energized.
3. Dairy-Free Creaminess
The coconut milk provides a luscious texture without the need for heavy cream, making this soup suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
4. Balanced and Wholesome
This soup is rich enough to satisfy your comfort food cravings but packed with nourishing ingredients that make it a healthy choice.
Tips for Making the Best Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup
- Use High-Quality Turkey: Opt for ground turkey that’s labeled lean for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Simmer the soup just until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender to maintain their structure and flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Swap the zucchini for bell peppers or green beans, or add herbs like thyme or oregano for extra depth of flavor.
- Crisp Up the Bacon: Cook the bacon until perfectly crispy, as it adds texture and smoky flavor to every bite.
- Storage Tip: The soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQs About Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup
1. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean ground beef would work well as substitutes for turkey. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add chickpeas or lentils.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.
4. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon gold potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness and pair beautifully with the coconut milk and spices.
5. What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
6. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to give the soup an extra kick of heat.
Why This Recipe Will Become a Family Favorite
This Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. The creamy coconut milk, savory turkey, and crispy bacon take this soup to the next level, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or something warm and cozy to serve on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your household.
Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
When life calls for comfort, this Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup answers. It’s a dish that brings together wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and creamy textures in every bite. So gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and get ready to create a meal that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.
Your family, your taste buds, and even your future self (hello, leftovers!) will thank you. Enjoy!
Print
Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup: A Cozy, Comforting Bowl
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm up with a bowl of Hearty Ground Turkey and Vegetable Soup, a comforting, nutritious one-pot meal. Featuring tender ground turkey, crispy bacon, creamy coconut milk, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dairy-free soup is perfect for chilly nights or meal prepping. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and nourishing enough to please the whole family!
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
- 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 3 small Yukon gold potatoes (chopped)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1 medium zucchini squash (chopped)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 15-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
Instructions
Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Sauté the Onion and Ground Turkey:
- In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, and zucchini squash.
- Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
Pour in the Broth and Coconut Milk:
- Add the chicken broth and coconut milk to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Add Spinach and Season:
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until wilted.
- Season the soup with sea salt, adjusting to taste as needed.
Serve :
Notes
- Customizations: Feel free to swap zucchini for bell peppers, green beans, or any of your favorite veggies.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Freezing Tip: Let the soup cool completely before freezing. It can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Dairy-Free: Coconut milk makes this soup creamy and dairy-free, but you can substitute with heavy cream if dairy is not a concern.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American