Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially as the seasons change. This Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach is the perfect blend of nutritious ingredients, rich flavors, and a satisfying texture that will have you craving more. Packed with lean protein, hearty vegetables, and a delicious umami kick from the mushrooms, this soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into the details and discover why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to whip this up time and time again:

– **Quick and Easy**: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty soup ready in under an hour.
– **Healthy Ingredients**: Featuring lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and cauliflower rice, this soup is a great way to sneak in some veggies.
– **Dairy-Free Option**: Easily adaptable for those avoiding dairy, just skip the Parmesan at serving.
– **Freezer-Friendly**: Make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious meals ready for busy days.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen cauliflower rice – A low-carb alternative that adds thickness and nutrition.
• 4 tsp. olive oil, divided – For sautéing and flavor.
• 1 lb. lean ground turkey – The main protein source, lean and healthy.
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste – Essential seasonings.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1/2 cup chopped celery – For that classic soup crunch.
• 1 T minced garlic – Because garlic makes everything better.
• 2 tsp. dried thyme – A fragrant herb that complements the turkey beautifully.
• 1 tsp. poultry seasoning – Brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
• 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning – A blend of spices that can elevate the flavor profile (see notes).
• 4 cups vegetable stock – The base of our soup, rich in flavor (see notes).
• 4 cups mushroom stock – Enhances the mushroom flavor (see notes).
• 8 oz. brown Cremini mushrooms – Sliced thick for a meaty texture.
• 3 cups chopped spinach (or more) – Fresh greens for color and nutrition.
• 2 T fresh squeezed lemon juice – A splash of acidity to brighten the soup.
• Freshly grated Parmesan for serving (optional) – Adds a creamy finish if desired.

Tools of the Trade

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

• Large soup pot – To hold all the ingredients while cooking.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring and mixing.
• Sharp knife – To chop vegetables efficiently.
• Cutting board – A safe surface for all your chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.

Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach Made Stepwise

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making this delicious Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach!

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped celery, and sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Add the lean ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and the minced garlic. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the dried thyme, poultry seasoning, and Spike seasoning. Let these spices toast for about a minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the Stocks

Add the vegetable stock and mushroom stock to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate the Mushrooms

Add the sliced brown Cremini mushrooms to the pot. Let them simmer in the soup for about 10 minutes, until they are tender and have released their juices.

Step 6: Stir in the Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Add the frozen cauliflower rice and chopped spinach to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cauliflower rice is heated through.

Step 7: Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh squeezed lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your nourishing bowl of Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some smart substitutions you can consider:

• Ground chicken or beef – Swap the turkey for another ground meat if you prefer.
• Quinoa or brown rice – Use these in place of cauliflower rice for a different texture.
• Fresh herbs – Use fresh thyme or parsley instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
• Other greens – Kale or Swiss chard can be substituted for spinach.

Learn from These Mistakes

Making soup is generally straightforward, but here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Not seasoning adequately – To really bring out the flavors, make sure to taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the veggies – Keep an eye on your vegetables to maintain their texture.
• Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the onions and celery enhances their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
• Not allowing the soup to simmer – Letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach is perfect for meal prep!

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer containers.
• It can be frozen for up to three months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.

Handy Q&A

Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen cauliflower rice?

Yes! If you have fresh cauliflower, simply chop it finely in a food processor or grate it, and add it to the soup in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Cheesy Spinach Alfredo Tortellini.

How can I increase the protein in this recipe?

For more protein, consider adding some chickpeas or white beans towards the end of the cooking process. They will not only boost the protein content but also add a nice texture.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply brown the turkey and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the stocks and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Desserts to Finish

After enjoying your Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach, why not treat yourself to a delightful dessert? Here are some perfect options:

• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet – A delightful way to end your meal with a rich, creamy flavor.
• Chocolate Avocado Mousse – A rich yet healthy dessert option.
• Lemon Sorbet – A refreshing palate cleanser.
• Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing – Light, fresh, and satisfying.

That’s a Wrap

This Ground Turkey Soup with Mushrooms and Spinach is a wholesome, delicious way to enjoy a variety of nutritious ingredients in a single dish. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it for a cozy dinner or as a comforting lunch, this soup delivers on every level. Grab your ingredients and get cooking; your taste buds will thank you!