Italian Ground Turkey Vegetable Soup (30 Minutes!)

This Italian Ground Turkey Vegetable Soup is a healthy, comforting dish packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and rich Italian flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. The combination of ground turkey, tomatoes, and a medley of fresh vegetables creates a delicious and satisfying soup that’s ideal for meal prep or a cozy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and essential vitamins.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different vegetables or seasonings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge or freezer for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the tomato paste, dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat the vegetables and turkey with the seasonings.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Stir in the spinach, cannellini beans (if using), and balsamic vinegar. Let the soup cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it Low-Carb: Skip the beans and reduce the carrots for a lower-carb version.
• Boost the Protein: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or small pasta like ditalini.
• Swap the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with lentils or plant-based crumbles.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works well as a substitute for ground turkey in this recipe.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the turkey and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add pasta to this soup?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo work well. Add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

How can I make this soup creamier?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a creamy texture.

Is this soup spicy?

Not really, but you can increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What vegetables can I use instead?

Feel free to swap in mushrooms, green beans, peas, or potatoes based on your preference.

How do I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

Conclusion

This Italian Ground Turkey Vegetable Soup is a perfect blend of warmth, nutrition, and bold flavors. It’s easy to make, versatile, and great for meal prep. Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or as leftovers, this soup will become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal in just 30 minutes!

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