This hearty and comforting wild rice soup is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey. It’s loaded with tender turkey, vegetables, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep option, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
3 sticks celery, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or to taste)
3 heaping tablespoons flour
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup uncooked wild rice
2 cups (or more) cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
7 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Vegetables
Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. For a rustic feel, roughly chop the carrots and celery.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to remove the raw flour taste.
Incorporate the Broth and Rice
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to dissolve the flour. Stir in the wild rice.
Simmer the Soup
Turn the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, partially cover the pot with the lid and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cook for 15 minutes.
Prep Turkey and Mushrooms
While the soup simmers, shred or chop the turkey and slice the mushrooms.
Add Turkey and Mushrooms
Add the turkey and mushrooms to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and cook for another 15-20 minutes or until the wild rice is tender.
Finish with Cream (Optional)
Stir in the heavy cream if desired. Taste and season the soup with salt and pepper as needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A fantastic way to repurpose leftover turkey from the holidays.
Packed with wholesome ingredients like vegetables, turkey, and wild rice for a nutrient-rich meal.
The creamy option adds a luscious touch, making it perfect for cozy evenings.

Tips

Make Ahead: This soup can be prepared a day in advance; the flavors deepen as it sits.
Wild Rice Texture: Wild rice retains a chewy texture even when cooked, so don’t overcook trying to make it soft.
Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer uncovered during the last 10 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Swap turkey for chicken or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
Vegetables: Add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
Non-Dairy Option: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
Grain Alternatives: Substitute wild rice with white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a different texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but avoid adding cream before freezing. Add it after reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

How long does this soup keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I use dried mushrooms?
Absolutely! Rehydrate dried mushrooms in hot water, chop, and add them for an intensified flavor.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve the soup with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Pair with a light side salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flair.