Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the first hint of cold air rolls in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a simmering soup that wraps you in warmth. That’s why I’m excited to share my Creamy Healthy Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup—a cozy dish that turns your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delightful meal. Not only is this recipe an excellent way to breathe new life into that turkey, but it’s also loaded with wholesome ingredients, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can have a comforting bowl ready to enjoy while relaxing after a busy day. Whether you’re looking to gather around the family table or simply snuggle up on the couch, this soup is your go-to solution for making the most of your leftovers. Are you ready to whip up a bowl of this creamy goodness? Why is this soup a must-try? Comforting warmth: The rich, creamy texture envelops you like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Wholesome ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and high-protein turkey, it’s a delicious way to nourish your body. Quick preparation: Whip it up faster than your favorite takeout, making it perfect for busy evenings. Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your choice of grains or add seasonal veggies, tailoring it to your preference. Crowd-pleaser: This soup will undoubtedly become a family favorite, converting even the pickiest eaters into fans of leftovers! Don’t forget to pair it with some cornbread or crusty bread for an even more delightful experience! Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base • Onion – Adds flavor and depth; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste. • Celery – Provides crunch and freshness; substitute with fennel for a different flavor profile. • Garlic – Enhances flavor with aromatic notes; fresh garlic is recommended, but use garlic powder in a pinch. • Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; substitute with parsnips for a sweeter, earthier taste. For Cooking • Avocado Oil – Used for sautéing; substitute with olive oil for more flavor or coconut oil for a tropical twist. • Poultry Seasoning – Adds traditional herb flavors; can replace with mixed dried herbs. • Wild Rice Blend – Forms the base of the soup, providing texture; substitute with brown rice for a different grain experience. • Chicken or Turkey Broth – Adds richness; use homemade broth for the best flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. • Water – Balances the broth to desired consistency; can replace with additional broth for more depth of flavor. • Leftover Turkey – Main protein ingredient; can replace with shredded chicken if turkey is not available. For Creaminess • Butter or Ghee – Adds creaminess; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. • Whole Wheat Pastry Flour – Thickens the soup; gluten-free 1:1 flour can be used as a substitute. • Milk (Almond or Cow’s) – Creates a creamy consistency; can use any plant-based milk for a lactose-free option. For Garnish • Chopped Parsley – Fresh garnish to enhance flavor; omit if unavailable or use basil as an alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup Step 1: Prep Vegetables Begin by finely chopping the onion and garlic, and slicing the celery and carrots thinly—using a mandolin or food processor can save you time here! Once prepared, set them aside, as these flavorful ingredients will form the base of your creamy Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup. Step 2: Sauté Base In a large stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes. Next, stir in the celery and continue sautéing for 2 minutes, followed by the carrots for another 2 minutes. This aroma will bring the family running to the kitchen! Step 3: Combine Ingredients Add 6 cups of chicken or turkey broth and 2 cups of water to the stockpot, along with 1 cup of wild rice blend and 1 tablespoon of poultry seasoning. Increase the heat and bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 4: Add Turkey Once the rice is cooked, stir in 2 cups of shredded leftover turkey, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout the soup. Allow the mixture to heat through for about 5 minutes, letting the warmth of the turkey enrich your Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup with additional flavor. Step 5: Make Roux In a separate saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of whole wheat pastry flour, cooking for about 1 minute until golden. Gradually add 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened, which will create a creamy texture for your soup. Step 6: Finish Soup Carefully stir the roux into the simmering soup in the stockpot, mixing until well combined. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Just before serving, garnish your comforting Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Healthy Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup is perfect for busy home cooks! You can prep the chopping of vegetables (onions, celery, and carrots) up to 24 hours in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the base of the soup (steps 1 through 4) and refrigerate for up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stove, add the cooked wild rice and turkey, and finish by whisking in the roux (steps 5 and 6). This method ensures your soup remains just as delicious and saves you precious cooking time during hectic evenings! What to Serve with Healthy Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup There’s nothing like a wholesome meal that draws family and friends to gather around the table, ready to share warmth and joy. Crusty Bread: The rustic crust of a homemade bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, enhancing each savory mouthful. Cornbread: Slightly sweet and buttery, cornbread balances the flavors of the soup, adding a delightful texture and taste contrast. Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens provide a refreshing crunch that lightens up the meal, complementing the soup’s richness beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized vegetables add depth and sweetness, offering a charming rustic touch that pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup. Imagine the earthy aroma wafting through your kitchen! Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, biscuits provide an indulgent side that’s perfect for sopping up the last bits of your comforting soup. Apple Crisp: For dessert, warm apple crisp, with its tender fruits and buttery topping, rounds out the meal beautifully while tapping into that fall flavor nostalgia. Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup Variations Feel free to put your spin on this recipe and make it your own with these tantalizing variations! Shredded Chicken: Swap the turkey for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal. This option turns your soup into a versatile family dinner while keeping it deliciously hearty. Quinoa Base: Use quinoa instead of wild rice for a gluten-free twist. Quinoa is high in protein, making your soup not only scrumptious but nutrition-packed as well! Seasonal Veggies: Add kale or sweet potatoes for nutritional boosts. These ingredients can add vibrant color and texture while enhancing the flavors of your comforting soup. Creamy Alternative: Replace regular milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. This not only creates a tropical flavor twist but makes your soup rich and creamy. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for an extra heat level. Just a pinch can elevate your soup into a warm and spicy delight that warms you from the inside out. Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh rosemary or thyme while cooking. A touch of sage could also evoke those warm Thanksgiving vibes with every spoonful. Different Grains: Try brown rice or barley for a heartier texture. Each grain brings its unique flavor, making your leftovers feel fresh and new all over again. Broth Swap: Consider using a vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth for a lighter option. Not only is it still flavorful, but it also caters to any vegetarian or vegan preferences! For more delicious inspiration, be sure to check out my Cabbage Potato Soup or Thai Chicken Soup for cozy recipes perfect for any day! Storage Tips for Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to retain freshness. Freezer: Freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened during storage. Make-Ahead: This hearty leftover turkey and wild rice soup can be prepared in advance and stored, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup Chop Uniformly: Ensure your vegetables are chopped evenly for consistent cooking, preventing some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain crunchy. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply reduce the amount of water added. If it becomes too thick, add more broth to reach your desired texture. Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider tossing in herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. They enhance the overall flavor profile of your leftover turkey and wild rice soup. Season to Taste: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning. You might find the flavors meld together beautifully, but a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish further. Store Wisely: If making ahead, store the turkey soup in an airtight container. Reheating gently on the stove helps maintain its creamy texture, so it’s just as delicious as when freshly made. Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs How do I select the best leftover turkey for the soup? Absolutely! When using leftover turkey, look for pieces that are moist and tender. If you have both white and dark meat, I recommend mixing them for added flavor and texture. Avoid using turkey with dark spots or off smells, as that may indicate it’s no longer fresh. What’s the best way to store leftover turkey and wild rice soup? Very! You can store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it cool down completely before sealing it to keep it fresh. For longer storage, I suggest freezing it, where it will stay good for up to 3 months. How do I freeze leftover turkey and wild rice soup? Of course! To freeze your soup, first, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Be sure to label each container with the date, and try to use it within 3 months for the best quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop. Can I make substitutes for the ingredients if I have allergies? Absolutely! If you or someone at your table has dietary restrictions, this soup is very versatile. For example, you can use gluten-free flour to thicken the soup or replace the dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version. Additionally, if you’re allergic to turkey, shredded chicken works wonderfully as a substitute. What can I do if my soup is too thick after being stored? No worries! If you find your leftover turkey and wild rice soup has thickened too much after being stored, simply add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating on low heat. Stir frequently until it reaches your desired consistency. This little trick will help keep it creamy and delicious! Can I add more vegetables to enhance the soup? Very! Feel free to bulk up the soup with more veggies such as spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition. Just chop them finely and stir them in. The more, the merrier—it’s a fantastic way to customize the soup to your liking! Hearty Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup for Cozy Days Enjoy this Leftover Turkey and Wild Rice Soup, a cozy dish that transforms your Thanksgiving leftovers into a nutritious meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 medium Onion Adds flavor and depth; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.2 stalks Celery Provides crunch and freshness; substitute with fennel for a different flavor profile.2 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor with aromatic notes; fresh garlic is recommended.2 medium Carrots Contributes sweetness and color; substitute with parsnips for a sweeter, earthier taste.For Cooking2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Used for sautéing; substitute with olive oil for more flavor.1 tablespoon Poultry Seasoning Adds traditional herb flavors; can replace with mixed dried herbs.1 cup Wild Rice Blend Forms the base of the soup.6 cups Chicken or Turkey Broth Adds richness; use homemade broth for the best flavor.2 cups Water Balances the broth to desired consistency.2 cups Leftover Turkey Main protein ingredient; can replace with shredded chicken.For Creaminess3 tablespoons Butter or Ghee Adds creaminess; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.1/4 cup Whole Wheat Pastry Flour Thickens the soup; gluten-free 1:1 flour can be used as a substitute.2 cups Milk (Almond or Cow’s) Creates a creamy consistency; can use any plant-based milk.For Garnish1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Fresh garnish to enhance flavor; omit if unavailable. Equipment Large stockpotseparate saucepanmandolin or food processor Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by finely chopping the onion and garlic, and slicing the celery and carrots thinly. Set them aside.In a large stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the celery for 2 minutes, followed by the carrots for another 2 minutes.Add 6 cups of chicken or turkey broth and 2 cups of water, along with 1 cup of wild rice blend and 1 tablespoon of poultry seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.Once rice is cooked, stir in 2 cups of shredded leftover turkey and heat through for about 5 minutes.In a separate saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup of whole wheat pastry flour, cooking for about 1 minute until golden. Gradually add 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously until smooth.Stir the roux into the simmering soup, mixing until well combined. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesExpert Tips for Leftover Turkey And Wild Rice Soup: Chop veggies uniformly for consistent cooking, adjust consistency as preferred, consider fresh herbs, and store wisely for future meals. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
