There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of soup, especially one that warms you from the inside out. Imagine coming home after a busy day and being greeted by the inviting scent of creamy Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup simmering on the stove. This recipe is not just a delicious way to use up leftover turkey; it’s a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and rich cheese that turns simple ingredients into a hearty meal.
Whether you have a fridge full of holiday leftovers or just want to create a quick, wholesome dish for your family, this soup hits all the right notes. Its creamy texture wraps around tender veggies, making each spoonful a moment of pure joy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand!
So grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into this easy, homemade comfort food that is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Why is Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup perfect?
Comforting warmth: This soup wraps you in deliciousness, delivering a cozy hug in a bowl.
Quick to make: Whip it up in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Leftover magic: Transform holiday turkey into a new family favorite, minimizing waste.
Customizable goodness: Swap veggies, adjust creaminess, or add spices to suit your taste.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this satisfying, cheesy bowl of joy.
For more easy recipes, check out our quick meals section for fantastic ideas!
Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup Ingredients
Ready to create a cozy masterpiece? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Soup Base
- Cooked, shredded turkey – Utilize your leftover turkey for added protein and flavor.
- Broth (turkey or chicken) – Acts as a delicious foundation for the soup.
- Milk – Adds that creamy texture; consider half-and-half for an extra indulgent version.
- Medium onion – Offers sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.
- Carrots – Diced into bite-sized pieces for sweetness and a pop of color.
- Celery stalks – Provides crunch and an aromatic flavor; diced finely.
- Garlic – Freshly minced to deepen the soup’s taste.
For Thickening
- All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup; cook briefly to avoid a raw flour taste.
For Flavor
- Sharp cheddar cheese – Creates that rich, creamy texture and adds robust flavor.
- Salt, black pepper, and nutmeg – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste of the soup.
With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making a heartwarming Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup that’s quick, simple, and delightful!
How to Make Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup
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Melt Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat until bubbly. The melted butter will create a flavorful base for your soup.
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Sauté Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking them until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This mixture will bring sweetness and aroma to your soup.
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Add Garlic Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. This step infuses your soup with delightful flavors!
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Sprinkle Flour Sprinkle flour over the softened vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute, allowing it to cook slightly and take away the raw flour taste.
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Whisk in Broth Gradually whisk in the broth until the mixture is smooth, then bring it to a simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, creating the perfect base for your soup.
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Incorporate Turkey Next, incorporate the shredded turkey and frozen mixed vegetables, heating through for about 5 minutes. You want the ingredients warmed and blended nicely together.
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Stir in Milk Lower the heat to low and gradually stir in the milk to avoid boiling. This ensures a creamy texture without curdling.
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Add Cheese Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Revel in the gooey goodness, as it enriches your soup!
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Season Finally, season your soup with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of nutmeg to enhance all the flavors wonderfully.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup?
Cozy up your mealtime with perfect pairings that bring out the best in your soup!
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crunchy loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness, enhancing the savory flavors of the soup.
- Simple Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad with crisp greens balances the richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, garlicky breadsticks offer a delightful contrast to the creamy texture, plus they’re irresistible for sopping up every last drop.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the savory depth of the soup, adding warmth and comfort to your table.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of mixed roasted vegetables adds a crunchy texture and a hint of caramelization that beautifully contrasts the creamy soup.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a sweet finish to your meal, with its cinnamon notes echoing the comforting flavors of your soup.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, mildly sweetened, complements the flavors of the soup while providing a soothing refreshment with every sip.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: Adding a splash of lemon or lime to sparkling water cleanses the palate, enhancing the rich soup experience with zesty brightness.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup
Fridge: Store your creamy Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions, ensuring it’s in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture if it thickens too much.
Notes: Always let the soup cool completely before storing to preserve its flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, carrots, and celery up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the soup base (steps 1-6) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before finishing it with milk and cheddar cheese. Just remember to let the mixture cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop, stirring in the milk and cheese for that creamy finish—and enjoy just as delicious a meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup
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Perfect Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your soup by adding more milk or broth when reheating. This allows for a creamy Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup that suits your preference.
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Smart Substitutions: If you don’t have turkey, shredded cooked chicken works beautifully as a substitute without sacrificing flavor and texture.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste before the final seasoning. The sharp cheddar can add saltiness, so adjust carefully to achieve that perfect balance.
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Nutmeg Boost: A dash of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to your soup. Start with a pinch, and you can always add more if desired!
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Batch Cooking: This soup freezes well! Make a big batch and freeze individual portions, so you have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this comforting soup to suit your taste and pantry!
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Dairy-Free: Replace milk with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy consistency without the dairy.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or butternut squash for more nutrients and flavor.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat and excitement!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
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Grain Addition: Incorporate cooked quinoa or rice for added fiber and a heartier texture that’ll keep you full longer.
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Cheese Variations: Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist on flavor and creaminess.
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Stuffing Surprise: Mix in leftover herb stuffing for an unexpected, savory depth that transforms your soup into a filling dish.
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Nutty Flavor: Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or slivered almonds for a crunchy finish and nutty richness.
Let your culinary imagination run wild, and enjoy the delightful variations you create!
Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right turkey for this soup?
Absolutely! It’s best to use cooked, shredded turkey. Look for meat that’s moist and flavorful. If not using leftovers, rotisserie chicken is an excellent substitute, providing that same delightful taste.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if necessary to regain its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup?
Very! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring there’s some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently warm on the stovetop, adding more milk as needed.
What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup thickens too much after refrigerating or freezing, simply stir in a little warm broth or milk when reheating. This will help return that creamy texture you love without sacrificing flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re serving this soup to people with sensitivities, it’s best to check if they are allergic to dairy or gluten (from the flour). You can use gluten-free flour and non-dairy milk alternatives to make it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
Of course! The more the merrier! Feel free to substitute or add in any vegetables you have on hand, like peas, corn, or green beans. Just ensure they are diced finely for even cooking, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Enjoy the exploration!
Hearty Cheesy Turkey and Vegetable Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat until bubbly.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the softened vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the broth until the mixture is smooth and bring it to a simmer.
- Incorporate shredded turkey and frozen mixed vegetables, heating through for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat to low and gradually stir in the milk.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.