This Italian Turkey Burger Soup is hearty and full of flavor! It’s packed with ground turkey, tasty tomatoes, and veggies, giving it a cozy feel perfect for any day.
I love how quick and easy it is to make. Just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! Yum! 🍅🥬
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the soup. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can substitute with ground chicken or lean beef. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Vegetables: The combination of carrots, celery, and onions creates a classic flavor base. Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini if you have them on hand!
Spinach or Kale: Both add nutrients and color. If you can’t find either, you can use Swiss chard or even frozen greens. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well if using frozen.
Italian Seasoning: You can make your own by mixing dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have any. This is a great way to customize the flavor to your liking!
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Without Burning Them?
SautĂ©ing onions and garlic is crucial for building flavor, but it needs attention to avoid burning. Start with medium heat and add your oil and onions first. Cook them until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring often. The key is to keep an eye on the color and smell—if they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat!
- Heat olive oil in your pot before adding onions.
- Keep stirring every so often, and as soon as the onions are tender, add garlic.
- Remove from heat if garlic starts to turn golden, as it can burn quickly.
How to Make Italian Turkey Burger Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This warm and hearty Italian Turkey Burger Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to cook. You’ll want to make sure you have enough time for the flavors to meld beautifully with a nice simmer. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. This will create a lovely fragrant base for your soup.
2. Brown the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the turkey is browned all over. This step adds a great depth of flavor to your soup!
3. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook these together for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften up. It’ll add a nice crunch to your soup.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and the chicken broth. Then, add in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little spice. Bring everything to a boil—this step gets all those wonderful flavors mingling together!
5. Let It Simmer:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for about 25-30 minutes. This lets the flavors develop and creates that comforting soup vibe we all love.
6. Add Greens:
After it’s simmered, toss in the chopped spinach or kale. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the greens are nice and wilted. This adds a pop of color and a healthy boost to your soup!
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then ladle it into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy a warm bowl of this tasty soup!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. The cooking times will remain the same, and it will still yield a deliciously flavorful soup!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground turkey with 1 can (15 oz) of drained and rinsed beans (like kidney or cannellini beans) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for extra flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve With This Soup?
This Italian Turkey Burger Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, you can serve it over cooked pasta or add some grated Parmesan on top!
