The Best Slow Cooker Turkey Soup – A Creamy Delight Your Family Will Love!
There’s something magical about a warm, creamy turkey soup simmering away in your kitchen, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. This slow cooker turkey soup is the ultimate solution for comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors. Whether you’re looking to make the most of Thanksgiving leftovers or craving a cozy dinner, this creamy soup is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for the entire family. To elevate it further, garnish each bowl with crispy, golden croutons for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the velvety broth.
Preparation Time, Total Cooking Time, and Number of Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 6-8 hours | 6-8 servings |
Ingredients for My Slow Cooker Turkey Soup
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1 cup croutons, for garnish
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Turkey: Use dark meat for extra flavor, but a mix of light and dark meat works well too!
- Don’t Skip the Sauté: For a depth of flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Add the Croutons Just Before Serving: This keeps them perfectly crispy and adds a delightful texture to the soup.
- Veggie Swaps: If your kids are picky, blend the soup to hide the veggies while keeping it nutritious.
- Fresh Garnish: Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving brightens up the creamy flavors.
Tools Required for This Recipe
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut milk | Heavy cream | Light, slightly tropical |
| Sweet potatoes | Regular potatoes | Sweet and earthy |
| Rotisserie chicken | Cooked turkey | Slightly smoky and tender |
| Cornstarch slurry | Flour (for roux) | Gluten-free, lighter texture |
| Fresh dill | Dried parsley | Herbaceous, tangy undertone |
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep Ingredients Early: Chop all vegetables and shred turkey the night before for an easy morning start.
- Store the Roux Separately: If making ahead, prepare the butter-flour mixture separately and add it when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Slow Cooker Turkey Soup
Prepare the Vegetables and Turkey: Peel and slice carrots, chop celery, dice onions, and cube potatoes. Shred or dice the cooked turkey.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Add turkey, vegetables, broth, water, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender.
Thicken the Soup: In a skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Slowly add heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker.
Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and golden croutons. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Turkey Soup
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Crusty Artisan Bread | Perfect for dipping into creamy soup. |
| Side Salad | Light greens balance the richness. |
| Grilled Cheese | A kid-friendly pairing with melty cheese. |
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat Gently: Heat on the stovetop over low to medium heat to prevent curdling.
Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High Protein: Turkey provides a lean source of protein.
- Rich in Vitamins: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Comforting and Filling: The creamy base adds satiety, perfect for a family meal.
Suggested Drink That Pairs with This Dish
A crisp, chilled Chardonnay pairs beautifully with this creamy soup. Its buttery notes complement the soup’s richness, while its light acidity cuts through the cream for a balanced flavor. For non-alcoholic options, a glass of sparkling apple cider offers a sweet, refreshing contrast.
Enjoy!
This slow cooker turkey soup is the epitome of creamy comfort food that’s easy to make and loved by all. With the crunch of golden croutons as a finishing touch, this recipe will win over even the pickiest eaters. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s make some magic happen in your kitchen!
