Our Turkey Bean Soup Recipe is the ideal blend of protein-rich turkey and fiber-packed beans, creating a delightful and nourishing symphony for your taste buds.When winter winds howl outside or whenever you’re looking for a comforting bowl to warm your insides, a hearty soup is often the answer. If you’ve got leftover turkey, this recipe is a great way to repurpose it into another delicious meal.
Turkey Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded turkey
- 1 cup dried beans (e.g., kidney, black, or pinto) soaked overnight
- 1 lg onion chopped
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots.
- Sauté until the vegetables are softened, around 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth, then add the beans, shredded turkey, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover.
- Let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or croutons.
Notes
- You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or a combination of both for a mix of textures.
- If using leftover cooked chicken, reduce the cooking time to ensure the meat doesn’t become overly dry.
- "Deviled" suggests a bit of heat. Adjust the amount of paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes based on your heat preference.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings to suit your palate.
- The casserole traditionally uses a cream-based soup or sauce. For a lighter version, consider using a mixture of chicken broth and a slurry (water and flour mixture) or Greek yogurt.
- You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and taste.
- Ensure all vegetables are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a little melted butter on top for a crispy crust.
- Grated cheese can also be sprinkled on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy layer.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, use an oven or microwave until heated through. If using an oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- This casserole can be assembled and frozen before baking. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. Extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes if starting with a cold casserole.
- You can also freeze already baked portions and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad, green beans, or garlic bread.
- For a complete meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Consider adding cooked pasta or rice directly into the casserole for a heartier dish.
- Swap out chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
How Difficult Is It To Make Turkey Bean Soup?
The beauty of Turkey Bean Soup is its simplicity. While the soaking of beans requires forethought, the cooking process is straightforward. Even kitchen novices can whip up this soup with ease!
How Does Turkey Bean Soup Taste?
Turkey Bean Soup offers a savory combination of tender turkey pieces, creamy beans, and aromatic herbs. The broth, enriched with the turkey’s natural flavors and the earthiness of beans, makes every spoonful a delightful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! If using canned beans, opt for two 15-ounce cans. Just remember to rinse and drain them before adding to the soup, and you can reduce the cooking time since canned beans are already cooked.
2. How can I store leftover soup?
Cool the soup completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, chicken can be a great substitute for turkey. Both bring a delicious depth of flavor to the soup.
4. I don’t have thyme. Can I use other herbs?
Certainly! Rosemary, oregano, or even a bay leaf can add wonderful flavors. Experiment and choose what best suits your palate.
5. Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
The base recipe isn’t vegetarian due to the turkey and chicken broth. However, you can adapt it by using vegetable broth and substituting turkey with a meat substitute or additional beans.
Enjoy This Turkey Bean Soup Recipe!
Indulge in the rich and fulfilling experience that is this Turkey Bean Soup Recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe will become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
