Ground Turkey and Rice Soup

There’s something deeply comforting about a hot bowl of soup, especially when it’s brimming with nourishing ingredients like ground turkey, tender rice, and fresh vegetables. This Ground Turkey and Rice Soup is one of my go-to meals when I want something hearty yet healthy. It’s warm, filling, and perfectly seasoned — everything you want on a chilly day or after a long day’s work.

I’ve made this soup more times than I can count, and it never fails to bring everyone around the table with eagerness. It’s not just simple to prepare, but it also uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup checks all the boxes.

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey and Rice Soup

This soup is a perfect balance of lean protein, wholesome grains, and veggies, making it a complete meal in one pot. It’s budget-friendly, adaptable, and comes together quickly — ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s mild enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults.

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What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

You can use white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice, depending on your preference and cooking time. White rice cooks fastest and adds a light texture to the soup. Brown rice takes longer but gives a nutty flavor and chewier bite. If you're using pre-cooked or leftover rice, simply stir it in during the last few minutes of simmering to avoid mushiness.

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Options for Substitutions

• Protein: Swap ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef.
• Grains: Use quinoa or barley instead of rice for a different texture.
• Vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or kale for extra nutrition.
• Broth: Chicken broth is standard, but vegetable broth works well for a lighter flavor.
• Herbs: Use fresh parsley or thyme if you have them on hand — they add a bright, herbal finish.

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Ingredients for this Ground Turkey and Rice Soup

• Ground Turkey – The star of this recipe, it provides lean protein and a hearty base.
• White Rice – Adds texture and substance to the soup, making it filling.
• Carrots – Bring natural sweetness and color to the broth.
• Celery – Offers crunch and aromatic depth.
• Onion – Essential for flavor-building at the base of the soup.
• Garlic – Adds a savory kick and boosts the overall flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Creates a flavorful, comforting liquid base.
• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and turkey.
• Dried Parsley – Adds subtle herbal notes.
• Salt and Pepper – Brings balance and enhances all the other ingredients.

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.

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Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook for about 6–8 minutes until no longer pink. Be sure to stir well so the turkey cooks evenly and begins to develop flavor.

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Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This step enhances the base flavor of the soup.

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Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will create the savory, nourishing soup base that ties everything together.

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Step 5: Add the Rice

Once the soup is boiling, add uncooked white rice. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through.

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Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Give the soup a taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the soup thickens too much, you can always add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

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Step 7: Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

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How Long to Prepare the Ground Turkey and Rice Soup

Prep Time: The preparation takes about 10–15 minutes. During this time, you’ll chop the vegetables, measure out the spices, and get everything set for cooking.

Cook Time: Cooking the soup takes around 30 minutes. This includes browning the turkey, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering everything together until the rice is fully tender and the flavors meld.

Total time from start to finish is roughly 40–45 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner.

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Tips for Perfect Ground Turkey and Rice Soup

• Use lean ground turkey to keep the soup light but still flavorful.
• Don’t rush the vegetable sautéing step — it's key for building flavor.
• Rinse your rice before adding it to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• If you’re using pre-cooked rice, add it toward the end to avoid overcooking.
• Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the sauté step: You’ll miss out on deeper flavor if you toss everything in at once.
• Overcooking the rice: It can turn mushy. Simmer just until tender.
• Using too little seasoning: With a mild protein like turkey, under-seasoning will result in bland soup.
• Not skimming fat or scum: If using higher-fat turkey, skimming helps keep the broth clear and light.
• Crowding the pot: Use a large pot so everything cooks evenly.

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What to Serve With Ground Turkey and Rice Soup?

1. Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The richness of the melted cheese pairs wonderfully with the lightness of the soup.

3. Side Salad

Try a fresh green salad with vinaigrette to add a bright contrast.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Great for extra fiber and color on your plate.

5. Garlic Toast

A quick and easy way to elevate your meal.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Note: The rice may absorb more broth as it sits, so consider undercooking the rice slightly if freezing.

Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding more broth or water to loosen it if needed. You can also microwave individual servings.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280–320 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this soup spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process.

Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, stir in cooked rice during the last 5 minutes of simmering to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely. Ground beef will give a richer flavor but may add more fat to the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or until rice and veggies are tender.

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Conclusion

Ground Turkey and Rice Soup is the kind of dish that brings comfort, nourishment, and satisfaction to your table with minimal effort. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and ideal for meal prepping. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner idea or a freezer-friendly meal, this soup is a solid choice you'll come back to again and again.

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