Let’s talk comfort food in a bowl. When the weather turns crisp, or when you just want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, a warm, savory soup is the ultimate answer. And turkey sausage soup? It’s like the best of both worlds: the rich, savory flavor of sausage with the wholesome goodness of vegetables and broth.
This isn’t just any soup; it’s a recipe that balances robust protein, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables to create a meal that’s both filling and nourishing. Turkey sausage adds a lighter twist compared to traditional pork sausage, making this soup a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Think of it as cozy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple-a one-pot wonder you’ll want to make again and again.
Turkey Sausage Soup Recipe
Here’s a recipe that hits all the right notes: flavorful, comforting, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough for a small dinner party.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this soup sing. I’ve broken it down so it’s easy to glance at and shop for:
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Protein
- 1 pound of turkey sausage (preferably Italian-style, either mild or spicy depending on your preference)
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Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced (optional but adds a nice texture)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
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Liquids
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water (optional, to adjust consistency)
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Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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Extras
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or barley (optional for a heartier soup)
- Grated Parmesan for topping
Cooking Instructions
Alright, this is where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bowl of cozy goodness before you know it:
- Prep your ingredients: Chop all your vegetables, mince the garlic, and slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.
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Cook The Sausage
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the turkey sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Cook until browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the sausage and set aside; don’t worry about the little brown bits left in the pan-they add incredible flavor.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add a splash of olive oil if needed.
- Toss in the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute, careful not to burn it.
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Combine Liquids And Seasonings
- Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes.
- Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
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Simmer And Blend Flavors
- Add the cooked turkey sausage back to the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- If using, add cooked pasta, rice, or barley in the last 5 minutes.
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Add Greens
- Stir in kale or spinach just before serving. This keeps the greens bright, flavorful, and nutrient-packed.
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Serve
- Ladle hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Pair with crusty bread for an extra touch of comfort.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down why each ingredient matters and how you can tweak them:
- Turkey sausage: Leaner than pork, but still full of flavor. Choose spicy for a kick or mild for a gentler taste.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions form the classic soup base, providing sweetness, texture, and aroma. Kale or spinach adds color, nutrients, and a fresh note.
- Broth: A quality broth makes all the difference. Low-sodium is recommended so you can control the saltiness.
- Herbs and spices: Oregano and basil give that Italian flair, while red pepper flakes offer subtle warmth.
- Optional grains: Pasta, rice, or barley make the soup more filling, transforming it into a complete meal.
Expert Tips
Here are some insider tricks to elevate your soup:
- Brown the sausage well: Those crispy bits stuck to the pan? That’s flavor gold. Don’t scrape them away.
- Simmer gently: Avoid boiling aggressively; slow simmering helps flavors deepen.
- Adjust consistency: Too thick? Add water or broth. Too thin? Simmer uncovered a bit longer.
- Fresh herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley, add it at the end for brightness.
- Batch cooking: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:
- Spicy sausage: Swap turkey sausage for chorizo or add extra chili flakes.
- Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- Hearty beans: Add cannellini or kidney beans for more protein and fiber.
- Different greens: Swap kale for Swiss chard, arugula, or collard greens depending on what’s in season.
Final Words
Turkey sausage soup is one of those rare recipes that is both flexible and deeply satisfying. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but flavorful enough to impress guests. It’s healthy, hearty, and incredibly comforting. The combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs ensures each spoonful is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this soup is a win-easy to make, easy to love, and easy to customize.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Turkey Sausage Soup?
The basic ingredients for turkey sausage soup include turkey sausage, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, bell peppers, chicken or vegetable broth, canned tomatoes, herbs such as thyme and parsley, salt, pepper, and optional pasta or beans for added texture.
Can I Make Turkey Sausage Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, turkey sausage soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the sausage and vegetables first, then add them to the slow cooker with broth and other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.
Is It Possible To Make This Soup Gluten-free?
Absolutely. Ensure that the turkey sausage and any added pasta or broth are gluten-free. You can also replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, rice, or quinoa.
Can I Freeze Turkey Sausage Soup?
Yes, turkey sausage soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until thoroughly heated.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Turkey Sausage Soup On The Stovetop?
Cooking turkey sausage soup on the stovetop usually takes about 35-45 minutes. Sauté the sausage and vegetables for 5-10 minutes, then simmer the soup with broth and seasonings until vegetables are tender.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Turkey Sausage?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute. To maintain flavor, season it with Italian herbs, paprika, and garlic. Brown the ground turkey in the pot before adding the vegetables and broth.
What Vegetables Work Best In Turkey Sausage Soup?
Common vegetables include carrots, celery, onions, bell peppers, potatoes, zucchini, and kale or spinach. Root vegetables and leafy greens hold up well and add both flavor and nutrition.
Is Turkey Sausage Soup Spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on the type of sausage used. Mild turkey sausage will result in a flavorful but non-spicy soup, while hot or spicy turkey sausage will give it a noticeable kick. You can also add crushed red pepper or chili flakes to adjust heat.
Can I Make Turkey Sausage Soup Creamy?
Yes, for a creamy version, you can add a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk near the end of cooking. Alternatively, blending a portion of the soup and then mixing it back in creates a thicker, creamier texture without dairy.
What Are Some Good Garnishes For Turkey Sausage Soup?
Garnishes can enhance both flavor and presentation. Popular options include freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.