Turkey soup with sweet potato is the kind of comforting, wholesome dish that brings both warmth and nourishment to your table. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey or simply craving a hearty bowl of soup, this recipe checks all the boxes. Packed with lean protein, the sweetness of the potato, and an aromatic broth, it’s a meal that’s perfect for cold evenings, post-holiday days, or just when you want something filling and healthy.
Not only is turkey soup with sweet potatoes delicious, but it’s also versatile, meaning you can adjust the flavors and ingredients to match your preferences. Think of it as the ultimate bowl of cozy goodness, combining savory turkey, rich veggies, and a lightly spiced broth.
Ready to dig in? Let’s get started on making this hearty, nutritious dish.
Turkey Soup Sweet Potato Recipe
This turkey soup recipe with sweet potatoes is simple to prepare and loaded with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It combines tender chunks of turkey, hearty sweet potatoes, and a variety of vegetables in a savory broth.
The broth’s depth is enhanced by a blend of herbs and seasonings, creating a rich, flavorful base. Whether you’re looking to make this with leftover turkey from a holiday feast or fresh turkey, it’s a fantastic way to make something delicious out of what might otherwise be considered leftovers.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make the soup:
- Turkey (leftover or fresh) – About 2-3 cups of cooked turkey, shredded or chopped. This could be from a roast turkey or even leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
- Sweet potatoes – 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances the savory elements of the soup.
- Carrots – 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced. Carrots add a subtle sweetness and great texture to the soup.
- Celery – 2-3 stalks, chopped. Celery provides a nice crunch and light, fresh flavor.
- Onion – 1 medium onion, diced. Onion adds a deep, savory base for the soup.
- Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced. Garlic will elevate the broth with its aromatic, earthy depth.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – 6 cups. This is the base of your soup and adds richness without being overpowering.
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon. Used to sauté the vegetables, helping to release their flavors.
- Herbs and spices – A mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves adds depth of flavor. You can also use a bit of cumin or smoked paprika if you want to introduce a smoky twist.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
- Lemon juice – A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the soup.
Cooking Instructions
The method to make this turkey soup with sweet potatoes is straightforward and quick, so you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup in no time:
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Prepare The Ingredients
- Dice the sweet potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and shred or chop the turkey into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
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Add Garlic And Spices
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and any other spices you’re using. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to bloom.
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Cook The Sweet Potatoes
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well, making sure everything is combined. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
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Add Turkey
- Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, stir in the shredded or chopped turkey. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s dive deeper into some of the key ingredients in this soup and why they’re so important:
- Turkey: Not only does turkey bring lean protein to the table, but it also imparts a deep, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes. It’s a great way to use up leftovers from a roast or holiday meal.
- Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness to the soup, which balances out the savory broth and turkey. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Herbs and Spices: The combination of thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves creates a comforting, fragrant base. These herbs work in harmony with the turkey and vegetables, creating layers of flavor without being overwhelming.
- Broth: Choosing a good quality, low-sodium broth is essential. It forms the foundation of the soup and carries all the flavors. You can use chicken, vegetable, or even turkey broth for a richer turkey flavor.
Expert Tips
Here are some expert tips to make sure your turkey soup turns out perfectly every time:
- Broth Choices: For a richer taste, use turkey broth if you have it available. If you don’t, chicken or vegetable broth will work fine. Just be mindful of the salt content if you’re using store-bought broth-go for low-sodium options to better control the seasoning.
- Texture Balance: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the sweet potatoes in the pot before adding the turkey. This will create a creamier texture without needing to add cream.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin to the soup for a subtle smokiness that pairs well with the turkey and sweet potatoes.
- Fresh Herbs: If possible, swap dried herbs for fresh thyme and rosemary. They’ll add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your turkey soup! Here are a few variations to try:
- Add greens: For extra nutrition, stir in some leafy greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color and freshness to the soup.
- Spicy twist: Add some heat by incorporating a diced jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or even a few drops of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
- Creamy version: For a creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender (be careful with hot liquids!). This will make the broth thicker and richer.
- Whole grains: Consider adding cooked quinoa, barley, or rice to make the soup even heartier. These grains will absorb the broth and add an additional element of texture.
Final Words
Turkey soup with sweet potatoes is more than just a meal-it’s a celebration of flavors that come together in the most delicious and satisfying way. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or make the most of holiday leftovers, this soup is the perfect option. It’s nourishing, customizable, and packed with a comforting blend of turkey, veggies, and a flavorful broth. With a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
FAQs
Can I Use Leftover Turkey For This Soup?
Yes, leftover cooked turkey works perfectly for this recipe. It adds flavor and reduces cooking time since the meat is already cooked. Simply shred or chop the turkey before adding it to the soup.
What Type Of Sweet Potatoes Are Best For Turkey Soup?
Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are ideal because they soften well during cooking and add natural sweetness. You can also use purple or white varieties, though they may slightly alter the flavor and color of the soup.
Can I Make This Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the sweet potatoes midway if you prefer them firmer.
What Herbs And Spices Complement Turkey And Sweet Potato Soup?
Common herbs include thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. Spices like paprika, cumin, and a touch of cinnamon can enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes while balancing the turkey flavor.
Is It Possible To Make This Recipe Dairy-free?
Yes. Most turkey soup sweet potato recipes are naturally dairy-free. If your recipe calls for cream, you can substitute coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk to maintain a creamy texture.
How Can I Thicken The Soup Without Using Flour Or Cornstarch?
Sweet potatoes naturally help thicken the soup when cooked and mashed slightly. You can also use pureed vegetables like carrots or cauliflower, or simmer the soup longer to reduce the liquid.
Can I Freeze Turkey Soup With Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, this soup freezes well. For best results, slightly undercook the sweet potatoes so they maintain texture after thawing. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Should I Peel The Sweet Potatoes Before Adding Them To The Soup?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds fiber and nutrients, but peeled sweet potatoes create a smoother texture. Wash them thoroughly if you leave the skin on.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Soup?
Definitely. Vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, parsnips, and kale complement turkey and sweet potatoes well. Adjust cooking times depending on the firmness of the added vegetables.
How Long Does It Take To Make Turkey Soup With Sweet Potatoes From Scratch?
If using raw turkey, it typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours including simmering time. Using leftover cooked turkey can reduce the preparation and cooking time to about 30-40 minutes.