If you’re searching for a cozy meal that blends hearty flavors with an incredible depth of nutrition and comfort, look no further than Italian Ground Turkey Soup. Packed with lean ground turkey, loads of fresh vegetables, rich tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, this one-pot wonder is truly a feast for the senses. The best part? It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for company. Let’s bring a little taste of rustic Italy right to your kitchen table with this beloved Italian Ground Turkey Soup recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Italian Ground Turkey Soup is how you can create such vibrant, soul-warming flavor from basic, humble ingredients. Each item on the list offers its own magic—whether it’s building the savory foundation, providing color and texture, or lending a fresh, herby punch to each spoonful.
- Olive oil: The classic starter for any Italian soup, it gently sautés the turkey and vegetables to release their flavors.
- Ground turkey: Lean and protein-rich, it takes on all the herbs and builds a hearty base without too much fat.
- Yellow onion: Diced for sweetness and aromatic depth, onion is key to the soup’s fragrant start.
- Garlic: Freshly minced, it brings a warm, classic Italian flavor that absolutely cannot be skipped.
- Carrots: Their sweetness balances the tomato’s acidity and adds lovely color.
- Celery: Sliced for crunch and traditional soup undertones, it rounds out the veggie medley.
- Zucchini: Diced, it soaks up broth and adds texture and gentle flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): These provide tangy brightness and mingle with the broth for a super savory result.
- White beans or cannellini beans: Creamy, tender beans add body, protein, and a homespun touch.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Forming the soup’s base, it unites all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Dried basil: Fragrant and peppery, this is a staple in Italian soups for its herbal warmth.
- Dried oregano: The familiar pizza-parlor hint, it’s earthy and mild.
- Dried thyme: Adds subtle minty undertones and depth.
- Salt: Brings all the soup’s flavors into focus—adjust as needed!
- Black pepper: Lends gentle warmth and just enough spice.
- Fresh spinach or kale: Chopped and stirred in at the end for vibrant color, texture, and a vitamin boost.
- Grated Parmesan, optional: For a salty, savory finish, a sprinkle on top is irresistible!
How to Make Italian Ground Turkey Soup
Step 1: Brown the Turkey
Begin by heating the olive oil in your largest soup pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground turkey and use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it sizzle away for 5 to 6 minutes, until it’s golden and no longer pink. This step lays the savory foundation for your Italian Ground Turkey Soup—so take care to get some nice color on the turkey.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in your diced yellow onion and freshly minced garlic. Give them a stir and let them soften for 2 to 3 minutes. The whole kitchen will start to smell like pure cozy comfort. This short sauté releases their sweetness and gorgeous aroma right into your soup base.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Stir in the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Stir well to combine, and let everything cook together for about 4 to 5 minutes. The veggies will begin to soften, and their natural flavors will start to mingle beautifully with the turkey and aromatics.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Now for the big flavor: pour in the diced tomatoes (with all their juice), drained and rinsed white beans, chicken broth, basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together, raise the heat to bring the pot to a gentle boil, then turn it down to low and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This is when your Italian Ground Turkey Soup truly comes together—veggies get tender, beans get creamy, and the broth becomes rich and herbaceous.
Step 5: Finish with Greens
Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach or kale. These lovely greens only need 2 to 3 minutes to wilt and turn vibrantly green in the hot soup. Taste and adjust your seasoning—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper is just what’s needed. Serve your Italian Ground Turkey Soup hot, with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like a cheesy finish!
How to Serve Italian Ground Turkey Soup
Garnishes
A steaming bowl of Italian Ground Turkey Soup is a beauty all on its own, but a handful of fresh basil or parsley and a dusting of grated Parmesan absolutely elevates every bite. You can even add a swirl of good olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of color and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
Pairing this soup with a slice of crusty Italian bread for dunking is always a hit. If you want a lighter side, try a tossed green salad with a lemony vinaigrette—that bright dressing is a wonderful match to the rich, savory soup. For heartier appetites, a small side of pasta or brown rice makes this a full Italian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t just settle for serving in a basic bowl. Ladle your Italian Ground Turkey Soup into little mugs for a cozy appetizer, or pour it over a scoop of cooked rice for a “stoup” (soup-stew hybrid) effect. Individual crocks topped with a cheesy toast round can make every serving feel like a little celebration!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Italian Ground Turkey Soup is a dream—simply cool it completely, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors get even richer overnight, so a next-day bowl is extra special.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a busy weeknight, this soup is absolutely freezer-friendly. Spoon cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready for another bowl, simply reheat the soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If you’re in a hurry, microwave smaller portions in bursts, stirring between each round. Add an extra splash of broth if the soup has thickened up a bit during storage.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a fabulous substitute for turkey and will pair perfectly with the Italian seasonings and veggies in this soup.
Is Italian Ground Turkey Soup gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this soup is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your chicken broth and any packaged beans to be sure there are no gluten-containing additives.
How can I make this Italian Ground Turkey Soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply skip the turkey, add an additional can of beans for protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get all the bold Italian flavors!
Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?
Definitely! Stir in about half a cup of cooked small pasta or brown rice at the end for an even heartier, more filling bowl. Just be careful not to overcook, as pasta can soak up lots of broth.
What herbs can I add or swap for a different flavor?
Italian Ground Turkey Soup is flexible—try adding a bay leaf, fresh rosemary, or even red pepper flakes for a little kick. Feel free to swap in fresh herbs near the end for a burst of brightness.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a bowl of homemade Italian Ground Turkey Soup, brimming with color, flavor, and the heart of Italian comfort cooking. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll love sharing with family and friends—or tucking away in your freezer for a rainy day. Give it a try soon and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of this feel-good classic!
Print
Italian Ground Turkey Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Italian Ground Turkey Soup packed with vegetables, white beans, and flavorful herbs. This gluten-free soup is perfect for a cozy and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 1 zucchini (diced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans or cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (chopped)
Optional for Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in carrots, celery, and zucchini, and cook for another 4–5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in spinach or kale and cook for 2–3 more minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
- This soup can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
- It freezes well for up to 3 months.
- For a heartier option, add 1/2 cup of cooked pasta or brown rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
