Italian Turkey Burger Soup

Italian Turkey Burger Soup offers a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional soup recipes, combining the lean protein of ground turkey with a medley of vegetables and aromatic Italian herbs. This comforting dish begins with browning ground turkey along with onions and garlic, creating a savory base. Carrots and celery add a satisfying crunch, while diced tomatoes and a rich beef broth infuse depth of flavor.

Enhanced with tomato paste and a blend of fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, this soup simmers to perfection, delivering a wholesome meal ideal for chilly evenings. Garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish, each spoonful promises a delicious taste of Italy in every bowl.

Italian Turkey Burger Soup

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs ground turkey breast

1 large onion chopped

3 cloves garlic finely minced

2 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper

1 ½ cups carrots sliced

1 ½ cups celery sliced

1 can diced tomatoes not drained 28 oz

3 cups beef broth

4 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1 tsp. dry

1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dry

1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dry

½ teaspoon chili pepper flakes

¼ cup fresh parsley

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in large skillet.

Add ground turkey, salt, pepper, onion and garlic to skillet and sauté until turkey is browned.

Transfer to Dutch oven or pot.

In same skillet add carrots and celery and sauté just until slightly tender (not too soft).

Transfer to Dutch oven.

Add tomatoes to skillet to deglaze (love the extra flavour that comes from the browned bits in skillet).

Add beef broth, tomato paste and all the herbs (except parsley) to skillet and bring to a boil.

Transfer to Dutch oven, stir to combine all ingredients.

Simmer on low heat for 30- 40 minutes.

Add parsley last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Notes:

Ground Turkey: Opt for ground turkey breast for a leaner option. Browning it with onions and garlic in olive oil adds depth of flavor to the soup base.

Vegetables: Sauté carrots and celery briefly to retain their texture and add a fresh crunch to the soup. Avoid overcooking them to maintain their nutritional value and bite.

Tomatoes: Using canned diced tomatoes with their juices not drained helps intensify the tomato flavor and adds richness to the broth.

Broth and Tomato Paste: The combination of beef broth and tomato paste creates a robust base. Ensure the tomato paste is well incorporated to thicken the soup slightly.

Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley (added towards the end) infuse the soup with aromatic Italian flavors. If using dried herbs, adjust quantities accordingly (use less than fresh).

Simmering: Simmer the soup on low heat for at least 30-40 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This slow cooking process enhances the depth of flavors.

Parsley: Adding fresh parsley towards the end of cooking adds a burst of freshness and color. This herb should be stirred in during the last 5-10 minutes to maintain its vibrancy.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and chili pepper flakes to your preference. The chili pepper flakes add a hint of spice, so adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Serve Warm: Serve the soup warm, optionally garnished with additional fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe.

Both meats are lean options and will work well in the soup.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available.

Simply use one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs when using dried herbs.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you add.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through before serving.

What can I serve with Italian Turkey Burger Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup for added flavor.

Is ground turkey breast necessary, or can I use regular ground turkey?

Ground turkey breast is a leaner option, but you can use regular ground turkey if you prefer.

Just be aware that it may have slightly more fat content.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What is the purpose of tomato paste in this recipe?

Tomato paste adds richness and depth of flavor to the soup.

It helps thicken the broth and enhances the overall taste.

Can I adjust the spice level of the soup?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier soup, you can increase the amount of chili pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, you can replace the ground turkey with cooked lentils or your favorite meat substitute.

Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.