As the leaves begin to change and a chill settles in the air, I find myself craving the rustic comfort of a hearty bowl of Cream of Turkey Soup. There’s an undeniable warmth that envelops you with each spoonful, a comforting embrace that recalls cozy evenings spent huddled around the kitchen table. In fact, this recipe came together after a particularly delightful Thanksgiving, where leftover turkey transformed into something truly special.

Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed shiitake mushrooms mingling with the sweetness of fresh vegetables, all heightened by the creamy texture that makes each bowl feel like a hug on a cold day. Not only is this soup a delicious way to make use of those turkey leftovers, but it also embodies the essence of homemade comfort food hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a special gathering dish, this Cream of Turkey Soup has you covered. Grab your apron, and let’s bring the warmth of the season into your kitchen!

Why is Cream of Turkey Soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: Just the aroma of this soup cooking will make your kitchen feel like home!
Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender turkey and fresh vegetables, each sip is nourishing and satisfying.
Versatile Recipe: Easily adapt it for a variety of diets using simple substitutions, making it perfect for everyone.
Quick Prep: Perfect for meal prep, this soup can be whipped up in just over an hour.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch your guests come back for seconds and thirds!

This Cream of Turkey Soup not only warms your body but also touches the soul—an invitation to gather around the table and share comforting moments.

Cream of Turkey Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with another cooking oil if desired.
Shiitake mushrooms – Provide umami depth; you can use any wild mushrooms or button mushrooms as a substitute.
Poblano chile – Adds mild heat and flavor; swap for bell peppers for a sweeter profile.
Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor; use sea salt if preferred.
Freshly ground black pepper – Adds seasoning and flavor; adjust quantity to taste.
Skin-on, bone-in turkey breast – Main protein source adding richness; dark meat can be substituted for a different texture.
Cold water – Used to make the base stock; vegetable or chicken broth can be used for added flavor.
Medium yellow onion – Provides a sweet base flavor; can be replaced with shallots or green onions.
Celery – Adds crunch and flavor; leeks can be a good substitute.
Medium carrot – Adds sweetness and color; baby carrots can also be used.
Garlic (grated) – Enhances the aroma and flavor profile; garlic powder is a substitute option.
Baby potatoes – Adds heartiness to the soup; substitutable with diced sweet potatoes or rice.
Chopped fresh thyme – Aromatic herb enhancing flavor; can substitute with Italian seasoning.
Unsalted butter – Provides creaminess; margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
All-purpose flour – Thickens the soup; use cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
Heavy cream – Adds creaminess and richness; substitute with oat milk mixed with cornstarch for a non-dairy option.
Worcestershire sauce – For serving; adds depth of flavor to your Cream of Turkey Soup when drizzled on top.

How to Make Cream of Turkey Soup

Prepare the Stock: In a large pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the shiitake mushrooms and poblano chile until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Build the Base: Add the skin-on, bone-in turkey breast to the pot along with the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and grated garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Simmer: Pour in the cold water, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 1-1.5 hours until the turkey is tender and cooked through.
Shred Turkey: Carefully remove the turkey breast from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Once it’s safe to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Thicken the Soup: In the same pot, stir in the unsalted butter and all-purpose flour to create a roux. Whisk in the soup mixture gradually until well combined, then bring back to a simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Finish with Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream to the pot, stirring well to incorporate. Let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through and creamy.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with Worcestershire sauce. Garnish with extra chopped fresh thyme if desired for added flavor.

Optional: Serve with warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cream of Turkey Soup?

Warm your heart with a complete meal that pairs beautifully with this delightful soup, enhancing the cozy experience.

Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked sourdough or a baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop of creamy goodness.
Simple Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich soup.
Garlic Butter Rolls: Soft and buttery rolls infused with garlic provide a wonderful flavor that complements the savory notes of the turkey soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring sweetness and a hearty textural contrast to your meal.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm, cheese-filled breadsticks are an irresistible side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy consistency of the soup.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing beverage with a hint of citrus can brighten the palette and balance the richness of the Cream of Turkey Soup.
Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream; the sweet and tart flavors provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.

Cream of Turkey Soup Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make your Cream of Turkey Soup uniquely yours!

Chicken Alternative: Swap turkey for shredded chicken for a lighter version that still packs the same comforting flavor.
Pasta Add-In: Stir in cooked ditalini or egg noodles for a fun and hearty texture that will satisfy pasta lovers.
Hearty Grains: Use wild rice for a nutty flavor, offering a delightful chew that enhances the soup’s richness.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate diced zucchini or green beans for a pop of color and added nutrients, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.
Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to boost the heat level, perfect for those chilly nights that call for a little warmth!
Herb Swap: Instead of thyme, try fresh dill for a refreshing twist that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Delight: For a vegan twist, replace cream with coconut milk for a tropical touch that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
Umami Boost: Add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste in place of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor profile and enhance the savory experience.

Let your creativity shine as you craft your perfect bowl of Cream of Turkey Soup!

Make Ahead Options

These Cream of Turkey Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the base of the soup (excluding the heavy cream) up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the soup following the initial steps, then let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. If you want to prep further, the soup can be frozen without the cream for up to 1 month; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to warm through for that creamy, comforting finish. Following these steps ensures your Cream of Turkey Soup remains just as delicious and satisfying!

Tips for the Best Cream of Turkey Soup

Sauté Well: Make sure to sauté the shiitake mushrooms and poblano until they’re well softened; this enhances the umami flavor in your soup.
Monitor Turkey: Keep an eye on the turkey while it simmers—overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for tender meat that’s easy to shred.
No Cream Too Early: If you’re planning to store leftovers, hold off on adding heavy cream until reheating. This preserves the creamy texture and avoids separation.
Swapping Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with substitutions! Using chicken or different vegetables can create a unique twist on your Cream of Turkey Soup.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a fulfilling meal that warms both body and soul.

How to Store and Freeze Cream of Turkey Soup

Fridge: Store your Cream of Turkey Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep the flavors fresh while making it easy to reheat.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the cream for up to 1 month. This helps maintain the best texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Heat on the stove over low heat, adding cream just before serving for the best results.

Avoid Separation: To maintain the creamy consistency, always mix in the heavy cream after reheating your frozen soup.

Cream of Turkey Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of turkey works best for this recipe?
I recommend using a skin-on, bone-in turkey breast for its richness and flavor. However, you can easily substitute it with dark meat, which will lend a different texture and richness to your Cream of Turkey Soup.

How should I store Cream of Turkey Soup?
Store your Cream of Turkey Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps preserve its delightful flavor. Just make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup inside the container.

Can I freeze Cream of Turkey Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Cream of Turkey Soup (without the cream) for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, reheat gently on the stove, and stir in the cream just before serving for the best texture.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Cream of Turkey Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Just add a bit of cold water or broth, stirring gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to heat it through again after adjusting the texture.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can! To make your Cream of Turkey Soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the soup after adding the butter, and let it thicken while simmering.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
While turkey is a common ingredient for many pet foods, it’s best to avoid sharing your Cream of Turkey Soup with pets as it contains onions and garlic, which can be harmful to them. Additionally, be sure to check for ingredient allergies; use suitable substitutes for anyone with dairy or gluten sensitivities.