Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Soup Recipe

This hearty, comforting Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Soup is made with lean ground turkey, white beans, and fresh spinach, ready in just 45 minutes. The savory broth absorbs the Italian herbs while the tender greens wilt effortlessly into the pot. I usually keep a batch in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.

Why This Classic Works

Ground turkey can sometimes dry out if overworked, but simmering it in a rich tomato broth keeps it incredibly tender. I used to skip adding beans, but they bring a creamy texture that balances the lean meat.

Using fresh spinach at the very end prevents it from turning to mush. You still get all the nutritional benefits without sacrificing the bright green color or texture of the soup.

Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Soup Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How To Make Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Soup

1. Brown the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground turkey and cook until lightly browned.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes until soft.
3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, beans, and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook and Combine: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add the Greens: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook for 2 more minutes until wilted, then season with salt and pepper.

Recipe Tips

• Use dark meat turkey: Opting for a 93/7 blend keeps the meat moist and flavorful compared to extra lean ground turkey breast.
• Prep vegetables evenly: Dice your carrots and celery into uniform sizes so they cook at the exact same rate.
• Don’t overcook the spinach: Add the greens right before serving to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch.

What To Serve With Italian Ground Turkey Soup

A slice of crusty sourdough bread is ideal for soaking up the rich tomato broth. You can also pair it with a crisp romaine salad dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette.

How To Store

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, just thaw overnight before reheating on the stove.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef or even ground chicken. Just be aware that beef will yield a richer, slightly greasier broth.

Do I have to use white beans?

Not at all. Kidney beans or chickpeas work just as well in this recipe if you prefer them.

Can I add pasta?

Absolutely. Stir in half a cup of small cooked pasta like ditalini or macaroni right before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 24g
• Protein: 26g

Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Soup

Recipe by Paula

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

45

minutes

Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Soup features hearty beans, tender lean turkey, and fresh spinach ready in 45 minutes. This comforting weeknight meal combines savory broth with classic herbs for a simple dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb lean ground turkey

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium carrots, chopped

• 2 stalks celery, chopped

• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

• 1. Brown the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground turkey and cook until lightly browned.
• 2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes until soft.
• 3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, beans, and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
• 4. Cook and Combine: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• 5. Add the Greens: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook for 2 more minutes until wilted, then season with salt and pepper.