Why You’ll Love Best Ground Turkey and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

This ground turkey and wild rice soup is the definition of comfort food made easy. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly dinner rotation:

Quick and easy: It comes together in under an hour with minimal prep.
Nutritious and filling: Lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and whole grain rice keep you satisfied.
One-pot meal: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Creamy texture: Cream cheese melts into the soup for a rich, velvety finish.
Meal prep friendly: It stores and reheats well, and the flavors deepen over time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground turkey
onion
garlic
canola oil
cumin
chili powder
salt
black pepper
crushed tomatoes
chicken broth
black beans
corn
cream cheese
cooked wild rice
cilantro (optional garnish)
tortilla strips (optional garnish)

Directions

Cook the wild rice according to package instructions (this usually takes 45–50 minutes). While the rice cooks, prepare the rest of the soup.
Heat canola oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Season the mixture with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and onions evenly.
Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes.
Lower the heat and add cubed, softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until melted and fully incorporated into the broth.
Stir in the cooked wild rice and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro and tortilla strips if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15–20 minutes
Cooking time: 20–30 minutes (plus wild rice cooking)
Total time: Approximately 50–60 minutes

Variations

Swap proteins: Try ground chicken, beef, pork, or plant-based meat.
Use different grains: Brown rice, white rice, or quinoa work if you’re out of wild rice.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese or substitute with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Add veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or kale add more nutrients.
Spice it up: Add diced green chilies or hot sauce for extra heat.
Taco-style: Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for a loaded bowl.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. For best texture, leave out the cream cheese if freezing and add it when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickened in the fridge.

FAQs

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

It stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well. For best results, freeze it without the cream cheese and add that in after reheating.

What can I substitute for ground turkey?

Ground chicken, beef, pork, or plant-based meat all work well.

Do I have to use wild rice?

No. You can substitute with white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based cream cheese or coconut milk instead of regular cream cheese.

Is this soup spicy?

It’s mildly spicy from the chili powder. Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing the amount.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just cook them fully before adding to the soup.

Can I cook the rice in the soup?

It’s best to cook wild rice separately, as it takes longer than other components and may overcook the soup.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Try shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, tortilla strips, or fresh herbs like cilantro.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the turkey and aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours. Stir in cream cheese and cooked rice at the end.

Conclusion

This ground turkey and wild rice soup is everything you want in a cozy meal: hearty, nourishing, and loaded with flavor. With its creamy texture, customizable ingredients, and easy prep, it’s sure to become a family favorite all year round. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.