Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a warm, flavorful bowl of goodness that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey, especially after a holiday feast. Imagine tender pieces of turkey, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth – that’s exactly what this recipe delivers. It’s a simple, home-style soup that embodies the hearty and wholesome cooking style Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is known and loved for.
Fresh ingredients like diced carrots, celery, and onion ready to be cooked for a homemade Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
This Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Effortlessly Delicious: Despite its homemade taste, this soup is surprisingly easy to prepare. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip up a batch of this comforting soup.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Got leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas? This soup is the ideal way to transform it into a brand new, exciting meal. Say goodbye to food waste and hello to deliciousness!
- Wholesome and Hearty: Packed with vegetables, lean turkey, and rice, this soup is not only flavorful but also nutritious and filling. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to adjust the vegetables and herbs to your liking. Whether you love peas, corn, or different seasonings, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delightful Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup, gather these simple ingredients:
- Turkey: 2 cups of cooked turkey, cubed. Leftover turkey works best and adds incredible flavor.
- Rice: 1 cup of long-grain white rice, uncooked. This type of rice cooks perfectly in the soup without becoming mushy.
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced. Adds a foundational savory flavor.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced. Contribute sweetness and color.
- 2 ribs celery, diced. Offers a subtle, aromatic depth.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced. Essential for a flavorful soup base.
- Optional vegetables: Corn, peas, or any other favorites you have on hand.
- Broth: 8 cups of turkey broth. Using turkey broth enhances the turkey flavor, but chicken broth or stock can be substituted if needed.
- Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil. Provides a sweet and aromatic note.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Adds a slightly peppery and robust flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper. Adds a touch of spice.
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). For a hint of heat.
- Fats:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. For sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Adds richness and flavor to the base.
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving). Adds freshness and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup:
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This step infuses the vegetables with aromatic flavors.
- Bring to a Boil: Pour in turkey broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer with Rice: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add uncooked long-grain white rice, stirring to combine. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked but still slightly firm.
- Add Turkey and Finish Cooking: Stir in the cubed cooked turkey. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender, and the soup is heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup!
A comforting bowl of Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup, perfect for a chilly day and made with leftover turkey.
Tips for the Best Turkey Rice Soup
- Broth is Key: Using homemade turkey broth will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. If using store-bought broth, opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Keep an eye on the rice as it simmers. You want it to be tender but not mushy.
- Freezing for Later: For best results when freezing, freeze the soup without the rice. Cook the rice separately when you are ready to reheat the soup to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A touch of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup.
- Spice it up: If you like a bit more heat, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal with these serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A light side salad complements the heartiness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Pair it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Enjoy this heartwarming Pioneer Woman Turkey Rice Soup recipe and bring a touch of home-style comfort to your table!
